On June 10, 2025, Apple was granted an intriguing patent by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The patent outlines a feature for a MagSafe-compatible iPhone wallet that can detect whether a physical credit card is stored inside and alert the user if the card is missing—essentially a warning system to prevent card loss.
What makes this patent particularly noteworthy is that it targets physical cards, not digital ones. Apple has long been an advocate for cashless payments through Apple Pay. Yet, this time, the company is turning its attention to managing physical cards—an unexpected but fascinating move.
Why focus on physical card management now?
Despite the widespread adoption of digital payments, many real-life situations still require physical cards. Corporate cards, driver’s licenses, hospital registration cards—these are just a few examples of cards that can’t yet be fully replaced by Apple Wallet.
With this patent, Apple seems to be addressing a very practical issue: the tendency to forget physical cards. Many people have experienced leaving a credit card behind after using it at a store. According to the patent, the wallet could emit a sound after a certain time if the card is still removed, and even notify the user with time and location data. This represents a thoughtful solution tailored to modern-day forgetfulness.
Redefining the MagSafe accessory?
Currently, MagSafe wallets on the market are essentially simple cardholders. But if this patent is implemented, the MagSafe wallet could evolve into a “smart card management device.”
Apple has already entered the space of item tracking with products like AirTag. This patent can be seen as an extension of that strategy—transforming Apple’s accessories from passive objects into active smart gadgets.
The fate of FineWoven and anticipation for new products
The FineWoven material introduced alongside the iPhone 15 series gained attention in 2023 but was partially discontinued with the iPhone 16 lineup. Against this backdrop, the iPhone 17 series could see the debut of a next-generation MagSafe wallet—featuring new materials and this card detection function.
Apple appears to be aiming beyond just “cool cases.” Their goal is to create accessories that integrate into users’ daily habits, helping reduce mistakes and stress—a true daily companion.
Though seemingly minor, this patent represents a fundamental innovation. It merges the real-world act of carrying physical cards with digital device functionality. At this intersection lies an evolution in user experience—the very essence of what Apple aims to deliver through its accessories.
Anticipation is already building for the arrival of the “smart wallet” likely to launch alongside the iPhone 17.