These are my early 2026 favorites for EDC iPhone tech accessories

Published: (February 8, 2026 at 10:00 AM EST)
6 min read
Source: 9to5Mac

Source: 9to5Mac

Techy dad with his sling EDC

My Ideal Everyday Carry Cross‑Body Sling

Lately, I’ve been leaning more and more into a sling‑based EDC. As a tech‑savvy husband and father of two, I constantly find myself needing more space than my pockets can hold, but I don’t always want to lug around an entire backpack. A cross‑body sling (or fanny pack, as it was once called) has become the perfect middle ground. It forces you to be intentional about what you carry while still giving you more flexibility than a standard pocket setup.

I wanted to share some of my favorite and most standout tech accessories that I bring with me on most days—whether I’m bouncing between meetings, running errands, traveling, or just getting work done wherever I happen to be. This is my ideal everyday‑carry cross‑body sling.

Note: Be sure to check out our EDC video, where I mention more than just the items in this article.

UAG Sling Bag

The UAG sling hits a sweet spot between size, capacity, weight, and material quality. Rated for 1 L of storage, it feels minimal yet holds more than you’d expect.

Key Specs

  • Capacity: 1 L
  • Material: Durable, water‑resistant nylon
  • Strap: Adjustable with a secure buckle
  • Compartments: Dual zippered sections
  • Extras: Hidden AirTag pocket & built‑in key clip

What I Like

  • Sits comfortably cross‑body without flopping while walking.
  • Structured enough to protect gear but still flexible.
  • Main pocket lined with microfiber to safeguard an iPhone.
  • Secondary compartment offers multiple pockets for varied items.

Images

Front viewSide view
UAG sling front viewUAG sling side view
Front viewSide view
Interior layout
UAG sling interior
Interior layout

Price

The UAG Sling is available on Amazon for $49.
Buy it here →

Planck SSD by Shiftcam

Buy on Amazon →

The Planck SSD is one of the most unique pieces in my sling and easily one of my favorites. I first saw it at CES in January 2025 and fell in love. It’s an ultra‑tiny SSD built specifically for iPhone photography and videography. The drive plugs directly into the USB‑C port, instantly giving your phone external storage that works seamlessly with ProRes and Log recording.

What You Get

FeatureDetails
CapacityUp to 2 TB
SpeedUp to 1050 MB/s transfer rates
CompatibilityProRes & Log recording, works with any computer, phone, camera, or game console
Size & WeightUltra‑compact, only 10 g
PriceStarts at $189

Images

Planck SSD on a table
Close‑up of the Planck SSD connector
Planck SSD attached to an iPhone

Why It’s Special

  • Tiny but powerful – the SSD is barely noticeable when attached to a phone.
  • Instant recognition – works even with a case on, no extra steps required.
  • Frictionless workflow – record for hours without worrying about internal storage limits.

The Planck SSD gives iPhone creators a truly portable, high‑performance storage solution.

Get yours now – starts at $189.

Kuxiu B10 MagSafe Battery

Buy the Kuxiu B10 (only $38)

The market is flooded with MagSafe power banks, but the Kuxiu B10 stands out thanks to its double‑sided MagSafe magnets. You can attach the pack to your iPhone and still have a MagSafe ring on the opposite side for additional accessories—simple, yet ingenious.

Key Specifications

  • Capacity: 5,000 mAh
  • Wireless charging: Qi 2.0, up to 15 W
  • Wired charging: USB‑C, up to 20 W
  • Design: Ultra‑thin aluminum body
  • Extra feature: Secondary MagSafe ring for accessories

Images

Front viewSide viewAccessory demo
Image: Kuxiu B10 frontImage: Kuxiu B10 sideImage: MagSafe accessory attached

I highly recommend the Kuxiu B10 for anyone looking for a compact, versatile MagSafe power solution.

M4 Snap‑On Controller

Buy on Tidd.ly →

The M4 Snap‑On is an ultra‑compact, Bluetooth‑enabled controller that turns your iPhone (or iPad) into a true handheld gaming device without the bulk of a traditional grip. Its modular MagSafe design lets you attach it to any‑sized EDC setup, and it even works with the Nintendo Switch and other Bluetooth‑compatible platforms.

Key Features

  • Modular snap‑on MagSafe design – fits seamlessly onto your device or case.
  • Bluetooth connectivity – works with iPhone, iPad, Nintendo Switch, etc.
  • Integrated kickstand – perfect for tabletop gaming.
  • Battery life: ~12 hours of continuous play.
  • Colors: nostalgic Game Boy‑inspired shades (e.g., atomic purple).

Price

  • $49 – a great value for a portable gaming controller.

Images

Front viewSide view
M4 controller front viewM4 controller side view
Back view
M4 controller back view

Updated AirTags – 2nd Generation

(Perfect for the UAG sling’s secret AirTag pocket)

Apple’s refreshed AirTags now offer louder speakers, longer range, and seamless syncing with the Apple Watch. They’re an excellent way to keep tabs on bags, keys, and other valuables.

Why Upgrade?

  • Louder speaker – easier to locate items in noisy environments.
  • Extended range – improves detection distance.
  • Apple Watch integration – see AirTag status directly on your wrist.

Pricing

  • 4‑pack: $69 on Amazon (vs. $99 from Apple).

Images

UnboxingInside
AirTag 2nd‑gen unboxingAirTag 2nd‑gen interior
Side profile
AirTag 2nd‑gen side profile

Both the M4 Snap‑On Controller and the new AirTags are compact, affordable upgrades that enhance everyday portability and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

As I mentioned at the very beginning, a sling bag is the perfect middle ground. It lets you bring more than just your phone and wallet, while still requiring you to be intentional about the products and accessories you carry.

Each of the items I highlighted was chosen because it enhances how I use my iPhone—whether for videography, content consumption, gaming, or simply extending battery life. Be sure to check out the video above to see all the other goodies I comfortably fit into the UAG sling!

What do you think of these products?

  • Would you get any of them?
  • What items do you never leave the house without?

Let’s discuss in the comments below!

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