ApplePatent applicationPhones & computersInterest 3/10

Apple patents a phone case with a retractable handle

Patent drawing from the official filing.

Apple describes a protective case for personal electronic devices that features a built-in handle. The handle slides out from the case when needed and automatically retracts back into a flat position when not in use.

Why it mattersIt offers a more convenient way to carry a device without holding it in your hand, similar to a small suitcase handle.

In the filing’s own words

A case for storing and carrying a personal electronic device may include a first shell, a second shell, a sliding mechanism, and a handle. The second shell may be hingedly connected to the first shell. The sliding mechanism may couple to one of the first shell or the second shell. The handle may be movably connected to the sliding mechanism and configured to move between a nominal position and an extended position. The sliding mechanism may bias the handle into the nominal position.

What exactly they claim (claim 1)

1. A case for storing and carrying a personal electronic device, the case comprising: a first shell; a second shell hingedly connected to the first shell; a sliding mechanism coupled to one of the first shell or the second shell; and a handle movably connected to the sliding mechanism and configured to move between a nominal position and an extended position, wherein the sliding mechanism biases the handle into the nominal position.

Facts

Company: Apple (Apple Inc.)
Official title: CASE FOR A PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICE
Publication number: US20260324825A1
Application number: 19686386
Filed: May 22, 2026
Published: Oct 22, 2026
Inventors: 4
Claims: 20

Classified under

A45C 11/00 Human necessitiesA45C 5/03 Human necessitiesA45C 13/005 Human necessitiesA45C 13/02 Human necessitiesA45C 2005/037 Human necessities

Read the full filing (official PDF) ↗ Open in the Patent Tracker

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Summaries are simplified from the filing’s own abstract and first claim. A patent filing is not a product announcement.
Patent data and drawings: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Nebula is not affiliated with or endorsed by the USPTO.