Apple could be planning the return of a classic accessory alongside its next flagship phone. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the company is considering a bumper case designed specifically for the iPhone 17 Air, which is expected to debut in September 2025.
A callback to the iPhone 4 era
The bumper case was first introduced with the iPhone 4 in 2010 to help with “antennagate” reception issues. Unlike traditional cases, it covers only the edges of the phone, leaving the back exposed. If Apple revives the design for the iPhone 17 Air, it would serve as a lightweight option to guard against drops and scratches while maintaining the handset’s slim 6.2mm profile.
The Information’s Wayne Ma also reports that Apple is developing a battery case for the device. This wouldn’t be the first time Apple offered such an accessory — the company previously sold Samst Battery Cases for the iPhone 11 lineup and the MagSafe Battery Pack for newer models, both of which have since been discontinued.
The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to feature a 6.6-inch OLED display, Apple’s A19 chip, and a single 48MP rear camera. It’s expected to sit between the standard iPhone 17 ($799) and the Pro model ($1,199), with a price tag of around $999.
Materials like silicone or recycled plastics are likely for the Bumper Case, and while it may not be tied to antenna concerns this time, it could help improve grip and durability. Meanwhile, the rumored battery case cound extend the 17 Air’s “around 2,900 mAh” battery for longer use, possibly with MagSafe support.
With Apple’s September launch event only weeks away, it won’t be long before we know whether this nostalgic accessory makes an official comeback.
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