iPhone 17: Are these leaked cases really from Apple?

Ahead of the expected launch of the iPhone 17, hints of new accessories are mounting. A rumor is currently circulating that Apple is planning new cases made of so-called "liquid silicone" for the iPhone 17 models. A well-known leaker has published the first images, which are causing quite a stir. The cases shown feature striking design elements and are even said to allow for the attachment of a lanyard.

Rumors about Apple accessories aren't uncommon—especially when a new iPhone is on the horizon. It's common for the first cases to circulate weeks before the official launch. Whether these are genuine Apple designs or not can often only be determined later. Nevertheless, it's worth taking a look at the latest news, as it hints at concrete innovations in materials, design, and functionality.

Leaker shows first pictures of the alleged iPhone 17 cases

The information comes from a leaker known as "Majin Bu." His accuracy is mixed—some of his predictions are accurate, others aren't. In a recent blog post, he shows images of cases supposedly intended for the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro. The material is striking: The cases are said to be made of "liquid silicone," a variant of the well-known silicone that Apple has already used in previous iPhone generations.

Wave effect and MagSafe cutout

Some of the cases shown feature a ripple effect on the back—particularly in the area around the MagSafe charging pad. Whether this effect is functional or purely decorative isn't clear from the report. It's possible that Apple is trying to create a visual connection to the new design language of iOS 26, which features, among other things, a so-called "liquid glass" look. According to the leaker, the cases are also said to feature a kind of "liquid glass effect," although what exactly this means remains unclear.

Cutouts for a possible carrying strap

Another striking detail are several cutouts on the cases, which appear to be for attaching a lanyard. Whether this lanyard will be included as standard or available separately is currently unknown. The idea of a lanyard isn't new to Apple: The charging case for the AirPods Pro 2 already features a corresponding feature, and the iPod touch also previously had a built-in lanyard attachment. The adoption of this concept in iPhone accessories would therefore not be entirely surprising.

Doubts about the authenticity of the covers shown

Although the leaker describes the cases as "official samples," there are legitimate doubts about their authenticity. Some models appear clunky and their workmanship is more reminiscent of early third-party prototypes than typical Apple products. It cannot be ruled out, therefore, that the images shown are merely early mockups or fakes. Such uncertainties are common with leaks, however – definitive clarity usually only comes with the official presentation by Apple.

Comparison with previous leaks

History has shown that even vague accessory rumors can sometimes be accurate. When the term "FineWoven" first appeared in connection with Apple cases a few years ago, there were similar doubts. Ultimately, however, the name turned out to be accurate. If "Liquid Silicone" is indeed the official name of the new material, it would fit Apple's strategy of positioning new materials specifically—both functionally and marketing-wise.

iPhone 17 event likely on September 9 – schedule set

Countdown to iPhone 17: The next Apple presentation is approaching

The iPhone 17 series is expected to be unveiled in just over a month. If Apple follows its usual schedule, both the new devices and official accessories—including any liquid silicone cases—are likely to be unveiled at a September event. Until then, it remains to be seen whether the current leaks are confirmed or whether this is merely another episode in the long history of iPhone rumors. (Image: MajinBu)