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The best new Apple iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro cases: Protect your precious new tech in serious style
CBS Essentials
It’s finally official: Apple debuted the new series of Apple iPhone 16 models (now up for preorder) during the “It’s Glowtime” event this week, showcasing devices with on-board AI features, better audio and video, new colors and much more. The new phone also includes the new A18 chip with 8GB of RAM that’s 30% faster than the previous iPhone 15 lineup.
The new Apple iPhone 16 is set to hit stores on September 20, with pre-orders starting on Friday, September 12. But don’t pre-order the new iPhone without also ordering a new case. You’re going to want to protect your new investment the second it arrives — breaking it on Day 1 would be a really expensive heartbreaker.
Whether you’re into a clear case that’ll show off one of the new phone colors or whether you need something rugged enough to handle serious drops, we found a handful of iPhone cases from trusted brands you’ll love using. Here are our top iPhone 16 case picks that you can get right now.
The best new iPhone 16 cases you can get now
We recommend protecting your new Apple iPhone 16 with a phone case from a reliable brand that’s guaranteed to fit your new phone. Lesser-known brands that do not partner with Apple may not offer cases that fit correctly at first.
Best iPhone 16 case: Casetify customizable Ultra Bounce case
Casetify
Casetify is known for its wide range of customization options on its cases, and its iPhone 16 options are no exception. When you choose an Ultra Bounce case for your iPhone, you get some of the best protection you’ll find for your new device. It features rubber bumpers on each corner of the phone, so if you happen to drop it the first night you bring it home and the next night after that too, you’re more than covered.
It comes equipped with an 10x military-grade drop standard and up to 32.8 ft of drop protection. It also covers your phone from all angles, as it encases your device in a multi-piece case. It’s meant to travel as well, with an added carabiner slot. It also comes with integrated lens protection and six layers to keep your phone safe. You can choose your favorite colors and features as well, so you can make it match your personality. It’s got everything you could need to keep your iPhone 16 as safe as possible, and you can’t beat the cool factor, either.
Best thin iPhone 16 case: Totallee Super Thin iPhone case
Totallee
If you’re not into bulky cases that don’t quite fit into your pocket, Totallee is the brand for you. This super thin case is a minimalist’s delight, with no bulk and no branding so your phone is left to shine on its own merits. It’s just 0.02″ thick, and incredibly light at 0.1 oz, made specifically to fit your iPhone.
Though it’s available without MagSafe, you can opt for a version that’s compatible so you can drop it on a charger and go. Plus, it has a raised lip around the camera array in case you have any drops or falls and your camera takes the brunt of it.
Keep in mind that it won’t offer the utmost protection like other cases will, but it’ll keep your phone thin and good-looking, and if that’s what you’re looking for, you can’t do any better than Totallee.
Best rugged iPhone 16 case: Urban Armor Gear Monarch Pro Kevlar iPhone case
UAG
This durable case is crafted from DuPont Kevlar fiber, which makes it a fantastic option if you’re looking to keep your brand new purchase in great condition. It boasts 25 ft. drop protection, with multiple layers between you and your phone hitting the pavement or other hard surface that could find its glass shattering, or its chassis getting banged up. Plus, its shock-resistant core absorbs and disperses the impact to minimize damage.
This case is all about safety for your device, and it shows in just about every facet, from the top-grain leather carbon fiber frame to the polycarbonate shear plate that adds a bit more rigidity. It also has lanyard anchor points so you can wear your phone or keep it close to you. All this, and it’s also MagSafe compatible as well. So if you’re serious about keeping your phone as close to new as possible, this is a case that can make it happen.
Looking for a slightly more affordable rugged option? Check out the OtterBox Defender Series for MagSafe designed for the new Apple iPhone 16. Available in six colors, the case features three layers of defense: a silicone cover, a rigid inner shell and memory foam backing. The all-over texture makes it easier to hold without dropping it. The case also features port covers that block dirt.
Find it at OtterBox for $65. You’ll save 10% when you buy a case and screen protector or power product together.
Best budget iPhone 16 case: Spigen Liquid Air case
Amazon
Spigen routinely offers a variety of affordable cases that you can count on for your different devices, and it’s already shown off quite a few iPhone 16 options. For under $20, you get an attractive thin yet grippy case crafted from TPU that can keep your phone protected from falls and drops. Its matte texture comes in five different colors, and it helps you keep your hand on your phone even when you get sweaty or if your phone somehow gets wet.
The case’s air cushion tech keeps it from getting too damaged by absorbing any impact that occurs as the result of a drop. Beyond that, the case has raised edges to protect both your screen and camera array. It’s a great set of features for a case you can get for less than a fast food meal these days for two people, and Spigen is a good brand to come back to if you need protection for your other devices.
Best leather iPhone 16 case: Mujjo full leather case for iPhone 16
Mujjo
Sure, you could go with something chic and thin, or you could get a huge, rugged case to protect your new phone. But if you want to go the cool and classy route, leather is always a good choice, and Mujjo is just the brand to get your leather iPhone case from. Crafted from Velore full-grain leather calfskin from the Netherlands, this is the real deal. It feels like butter and will develop a natural patina over time that you only get with the genuine article.
But this isn’t just a leather case that’ll do nothing to keep your iPhone 16 from splintering or shattering. It’s also paired with a metal rear camera bump to protect your lenses and a 1mm raised leather bezel to keep your screen from hitting rough surfaces. It replaces Apple’s selection of leather cases since they’re no longer available anymore, and Mujjo offers higher quality leather anyway.
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U.S. Air Force gives update on new B-21 stealth bomber: “Nobody on the planet can do what we’re doing”
Air Force leaders gave an update on the B-21 Raider, a futuristic aircraft that is expected to become the United States’ next nuclear stealth bomber.
The aircraft can deliver both “conventional and nuclear munitions,” according to a news release from the Air Force, but will be “critical to deterring conflict” around the world. Gen. Thomas Bussiere, commander of the Air Force Global Strike Command, said the stealth bomber will help the United States keep pace with threats worldwide.
“We are the free world’s only bomber force. … Nobody on the planet can do what we’re doing right now,” Bussiere said, adding that there will likely be an increased demand for the support the stealth bomber can provide in the coming years.
Air Force Global Strike Command
Currently, the stealth bomber remains in the test flight stage, and is doing two such flights a week, according to Thomas Jones, the Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems sector president. A photo shared by the Air Force shows one of the bombers during flight testing.
“We’re really starting to strike up quite a cadence … when we started this journey, we made a vow that we were going to design this system to be a daily flyer,” Jones said, according to the release. “It’s been a phenomenal year of progress, and we hope to continue that through the next year.”
A recent notable test confirmed the stealth bomber’s structural design and integrity, according to officials. The plane is now going through a fatigue testing campaign.
Once the planes are tested, some of the aircraft will be delivered to the Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota to help train Air Force squadrons on the stealth bomber. When the B-21 enters the service, this site will be the main operating base for the stealth bomber.
Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri will be a secondary base, and Dyess Air Force Base in Texas a third.
The stealth bomber is set to replace the B-1 Lancer and B-2 Spirit bombers in the Air Force’s fleet.
Getty Images
Whether you’re barreling down a mountainside or taking a leisurely ride along your local trail, a great mountain bike is key. But what exactly does a great mountain bike look like, in terms of features? It depends on the kind of terrain and riding style you do.
The best mountain bike for long, cross-country rides will have very different specs than a downhill bike. Some offer full suspension for a smooth ride on bumpy trails. Some have wider tires that are better at gripping wet or sandy terrain. Some are designed for maximum pedaling efficiency and serious stopping power so you can climb steep mountainsides without wearing yourself out. No matter where you and your new bike are headed this fall, we’ve rounded up the best mountain bikes for every rider and every terrain in 2024. Don’t forget to strap on your bike helmet.
Best mountain bike for beginners: Giant Talon 29 1
Mike’s Bikes
The Giant Talon 29 1 is a solid entry-level mountain bike at a reasonable price point. With its balanced frame geometry and high-traction tires, it’s great for a comfortable, stable ride on most trails. While that means it’s not specialized for uphill climbs or cross-country speed, the balanced design is great for beginners or casual riders who aren’t planning to tackle those more challenging technical trails just yet.
With 80mm to 100mm of suspension travel, this hardtail mountain bike strikes that perfect balance of pedaling efficiency and shock absorption.
Riders can also adjust the suspension within that range by adjusting the air spring and the rebound damping. That gives you improved steering precision and a better ride feel since you can tailor it to your needs. If you’re a beginner, it may take some trial and error to fine-tune those settings, but playing around with them is a great way to learn how suspension impacts your ride.
Get this reliable entry-level mountain bike at Mike’s Bikes for $950.
Top features of the Giant Talon 29 1:
- Grippy tires offer great traction in any trail conditions.
- The balanced frame geometry makes this a comfortable bike for most riders.
- The adjustable suspension fork allows you to fine-tune this mountain bike for your needs.
Best trail bike: Santa Cruz Tallboy C R
Backcountry
A full-suspension mountain bike with 120mm and 130mm suspension travel on the rear and front, respectively, it doesn’t get cushier than the Santa Cruz Tallboy C R (at least, not at this price point). Built for cross-country or trail riding, this bike’s design allows you to glide through rocky terrain almost as if you were just cruising on a paved road. That suspension also helps cushion the impact on pops and short drops so you can build up speed while navigating the trail with confidence.
With that said, it can be a little sluggish on uphill climbs. But if you typically stick to more straightforward trails, you won’t have to deal with that issue. For those just-for-fun weekend trail rides, this is the mountain bike you want.
Get this comfortable, agile trail bike at Backcountry while it’s on sale for $3,849 (reduced from $4,799).
Top features of the Santa Cruz Tallboy C R:
- Boasting full suspension, this mountain bike is a comfy ride no matter how bumpy the terrain.
- The carbon C frame is both lightweight and stiff for better control and improved agility.
- The four-piston brakes offer excellent stopping power.
Best fat tire mountain bike: State 6061 Trail+
State Bicycle Co.
For wet or sandy trails, traction is everything, which means you need a fat tire bike like the State 6061 Trail+. With 4.5-inch wide tires that can handle running even at low PSI, this mountain bike can grip the trail no matter how loose or slippery.
Whether you want to cruise along sandy beaches or power through snowy mountain trails, the stability of this fat tire bike is the key to doing so safely and confidently. You won’t be building up much speed, but you’ll have a lot of fun plowing through trails that a standard trail bike couldn’t even touch.
Get this fat tire bike directly from State Bicycle Co. for $1,000.
Top features of the State 6061 Trail+:
- Thick 4.5-inch tires provide extra grip for wet or loose terrain like snow, sand and mud.
- With low PSI capabilities, you can lower the tire pressure to widen the surface area even further to maximize your grip on soft, slippery trails.
- The alloy frame is stiff and strong without adding any more bulk than necessary.
Best mountain bike under $500: Huffy Stone Mountain
Amazon
The Huffy Stone Mountain is a hardtail mountain bike that is lightweight and offers good traction for navigating trails. The budget-friendly bike is missing a lot of the features you’ll find on the more advanced mountain bikes listed above. However, if you’re just starting out and just want to get out on a trail to see if you like mountain biking, this is a good bike to start with.
While you can’t take it on any serious trails, it’s got the basics you need for easy local bike trails. Use it to get a feel for the sport and then upgrade to a mountain bike better suited to the kind of trails you want to tackle. Then, pass this Huffy Stone Mountain on to a friend or teen who’s curious about mountain biking.
A bestseller on Amazon, this budget mountain bike is available for as low as $200.
Top features of the Huffy Stone Mountain:
- This budget entry-level bike is great for casual rides on easy bike trails.
- A wide variety of frame and wheel sizes allows you to get the right fit for your height.
- The lightweight, high-traction design is just enough to let you get a feel for mountain biking before committing to a higher-priced mountain bike with more advanced features and customizability.
Shop more top-rated mountain bikes:
What type of mountain bike should a beginner get?
The best mountain bike for a beginner is a balanced, versatile one. Since you’re probably not tackling steep inclines and declines yet, opt for a trail bike that offers great traction, strong brakes and easy maneuverability along bumpy, muddy trails. That means grippy tires and responsive steering so you can confidently control your bike over tree roots, up hills and on descents.
If the trails you’re eager to go on are largely uphill, look for a bike that’s lightweight with a firmer pedaling platform. Those two features will improve climb efficiency so you’re not wearing yourself out on those uphill stretches.
Do I need a full-suspension mountain bike?
You don’t need a full-suspension mountain bike, but they are nice to have. Unlike hardtail mountain bikes, which only have suspension in the front, full-suspension mountain bikes have suspension in both the front and rear. That extra suspension helps absorb shock, cushioning the impact as you hop over bumps or navigate downhill jumps and drops.
That cushier feel can be nice even on milder trail rides, but they tend to be significantly more expensive and require more maintenance than a hardtail mountain bike. So it might not be worth the extra expense and care if you don’t usually do technical trails or downhill riding.
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