Following the introduction of iPhone Pocket, Apple announced today the Hikawa Phone Grip & Stand, celebrating the 40th anniversary of accessibility at Apple. Here are the details.
Two colorways for users with multiple accessibility needs
Created by Los Angeles-based artist and industrial designer Bailey Hikawa, whose work frequently explores interesting-looking iPhone cases, the new accessory is MagSafe compatible and doubles as a stand that holds the iPhone in either vertical or horizontal orientations.
Its shape was designed to support multiple hand positions, and its build prioritizes ease of use. It snaps on and off easily, featuring a soft-touch feel thanks to the premium silicone used in its construction.
According to Hikawa, the creative process for the accessory took into account input from users with multiple accessibility needs, including those who can’t operate the iPhone with their hands or have limited dexterity.
Here is Hikawa:
“The grip was designed through an extensive interview process to support varied ways of holding iPhone while reducing the effort needed to keep it steady.”
The new limited-edition accessory also highlights Apple’s ongoing efforts when it comes to accessibility, particularly on the iPhone.
Earlier this year, Apple introduced features such as Accessibility Nutrition Labels on the App Store, Accessibility Reader, Braille Access, Live Captions that work in conjunction with the Apple Watch, and Magnifier for Mac, which uses the iPhone’s camera. You can learn more about these features here.
And speaking of Apple’s accessibility efforts, here’s what Apple’s head of accessibility, Sarah Herrlinger, said about the new accessory in an interview with Elle Decor:
“It was a no-brainer to look at: what are the types of MagSafe accessories that can really be valuable to our communities, as well?” (…) This is one of many accessories that are out there that solves unique problems for some people. And so we’re really excited to see as different communities start to get access to this, how they are able to use it, and what works best for them.”
The Hikawa Phone Grip & Stand costs $69.95 and is available in two colors: Chartreuse and the exclusive recycled colorway Crater, which is available only on Apple’s Online Store in the U.S.
Accessory deals on Amazon
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.