6 iPhone Accessories That Are Wasting Your Money

The iPhone is a premium device, but not every accessory on the market is worth it. Some accessories are just a ploy to prey on fear and misinformation.

6. Antibacterial screen protector

The idea of ​​an antimicrobial screen protector sounds great—your phone goes everywhere with you, after all. However, antimicrobial screen protectors don't work the way most people think. They use a silver ion coating that slows the growth of bacteria over time, but that doesn't mean your screen won't be germ-free.

If you're worried about bacteria, a quick wipe with a disinfectant or microfiber cloth will be far more effective than any built-in antimicrobial coating. No fancy coating can compare to the simple act of regularly cleaning your screen.

There's also the issue of durability. The antimicrobial coating wears off with daily use, leaving you with just a regular screen protector. Instead, a good tempered glass protector will help prevent scratches and cracks without the need for unnecessary tricks.

5. Anti-radiation stickers and cases

Anti-radiation patches and cases claim to block harmful smartphone radiation, but these products are based more on fear than fact. Smartphones, including iPhones, meet strict standards that keep radio frequency emissions within safe limits. There is no credible scientific evidence that everyday phone use poses a health risk.

Worse yet, if these patches or cases do block radiation, they can interfere with the phone's signal, forcing the phone to work harder to maintain a connection. This can actually increase the amount of radiation emitted instead of reducing it.

If you're concerned about exposure, a more practical (and free) solution is to use a speakerphone or wired headset for long calls. Concerns about smartphone radiation are largely unfounded, making anti-radiation accessories a waste of money.

4. Case with wallet

Combination cases keep your iPhone wallet and essential cards in one place, but they're often bulky, impractical, and more trouble than they're worth.

A common complaint is their design, which some users find uncomfortable. These types of cases add a lot of bulk to your phone, making it difficult to hold and fit in your pocket. Many also use magnetic clasps, which can get in the way when answering calls or taking photos.

Another concern is security. If it's lost or stolen, you'll not only lose your phone, but also your ID, credit cards, and cash. This turns a small inconvenience into a major problem, especially if you're locked out of important accounts.

Despite their large size, most wallet cases don't offer the same protection as a dedicated phone case. Some leave the edges of your phone exposed, and the added weight can make dropping your phone more dangerous. A well-fitting case paired with a separate slim wallet will provide better security and usability without the downsides. Make sure to check these three things before buying a new phone case.

3. UV-C Phone Sanitizer

UV-C phone sanitizers promise a high-tech way to keep your device germ-free, but they're not as effective as they claim. While UV-C light is used in hospitals and labs to disinfect, its effectiveness depends on direct exposure. Any dust, dirt, or edges on your phone case can block the light, leaving untouched areas where bacteria can thrive.

More importantly, UV-C doesn't remove dirt, grease, or fingerprints. Even if it kills some bacteria, your phone will still be covered in grime. Simply wiping it down with an alcohol-based sanitizer is a much faster, more effective, and cheaper solution.

While UV-C light has practical medical applications, using it to disinfect your smartphone is overkill. The recommended way to clean your phone is with a microfiber cloth and disinfectant.

2. Third-party Bluetooth tracking devices

Bluetooth trackers are great for keeping track of your belongings, but not all of them are reliable. Apple's official AirTag and Tile products offer solid tracking, but many third-party Bluetooth trackers suffer from weak signals, poor battery life, and unreliable connections.

Unlike AirTag, which taps into Apple's vast Find My network, most off-brand alternatives rely on much smaller tracking networks—or just connect directly to your phone via Bluetooth . If your item is out of range, your tracker is essentially useless.

Another concern is privacy. AirTags and Tile trackers have built-in protections to prevent unauthorized tracking, but many third-party versions lack these protections. This could put your data at risk and make these trackers more susceptible to misuse.

If you need a reliable tracking solution, stick with a reputable brand. Cheaper alternatives may seem like a bargain, but they are often unreliable, unsafe, and ultimately a waste of money.

1. "Premium" screen cleaning kit

A smudge-free screen makes your iPhone look better, but there's no need to spend money on a "premium" screen cleaning kit. These kits typically include a bottle of high-end cleaning solution, a microfiber cloth, and sometimes a small brush — none of which are worth their hefty price tag.

Most cleaning solutions are just mild soap and water or diluted alcohol packaged in a fancy package. Some even contain harsh chemicals that can damage the screen's oleophobic coating, making it more susceptible to smudges over time.

The microfiber cleaning cloth — the only really useful part of these kits — can be purchased separately for a fraction of the price. Instead of buying an expensive kit, a small spray bottle filled with water and a drop of dish soap will clean your screen just as effectively.

Next time you're thinking about buying a smartphone accessory, stop and ask yourself one question: Will it really make a difference in how you use your phone? The answer is likely no, and you could save yourself some serious cash.

Marvin Fry

Update 27 May 2025