PopSockets, the brand synonymous with stylish phone grips, has chosen Best Buy as its exclusive retail partner for its latest innovation, a popsockets phone grips designed specifically for portrait mode. The decision marks a strategic move by the company to target a more tech-savvy audience, aligning the launch with Best Buy’s customer base. David Barnett, PopSockets’ founder and chairman, explained that this new grip addresses a growing demand from users who want to shoot vertical videos or scroll content on platforms like TikTok with more ease and stability.
The new product, launched on May 25, is available through PopSockets’ website and Best Buy’s retail channels, with two exclusive colors, navy and silver, offered only at Best Buy. While PopSockets is also available at major retailers such as Target, Barnett emphasized that Best Buy consumers are more focused on functionality and tech features, making it a natural choice for the product’s debut. “We’re introducing a new solution,” Barnett said, “and at Best Buy, there’s a greater emphasis on core utility, which made it the perfect retail partner.”
Innovation Rooted in Utility and Style
Since its inception, PopSockets has blended form and function to create accessories that resonate with both utility-driven and fashion-conscious users. Barnett originally conceived the PopSocket in 2010 as a DIY solution to tangled earbud cords, eventually evolving the idea into a successful Kickstarter campaign and launching the company in 2014. Over the years, the brand has broadened its offerings, adding wallets, mounts, chargers, and phone cases, while continuously updating its core grip design.
This latest portrait-mode grip reflects years of development. Barnett revealed that the team had explored various design alternatives, including a rectangular grip, but found that most options compromised the signature popsockets phone grips experience. The final version, which supports MagSafe wireless technology and includes adapters for broader compatibility, retains the brand’s hallmark attributes: comfort, durability, and playful “fidgetability.”
In recent years, PopSockets has ramped up efforts to evolve into a lifestyle brand. Under new CEO Jiayu Lin, the company has pursued more licensing deals with major entertainment franchises and formed exclusive retail collaborations, including a recent launch with Apple for magnetic popsockets phone grips. These moves aim to build stronger emotional connections with consumers while continuing to meet evolving tech needs.
What’s Next- Tech Meets Entertainment
popsockets ‘success stems from its commitment to staying ahead of user needs. Barnett indicated that the company’s future includes even more ambitious innovations. While details remain under wraps, he hinted at a forthcoming product with an entertainment focus, something beyond the traditional grip, with notable engineering hurdles yet to be overcome.
“This isn’t just another grip,” Barnett teased. “It really brings a lot of entertainment to people.” As PopSockets continues to blend utility and lifestyle appeal, this next phase promises to further blur the line between phone accessories and digital experiences, and with strong retail allies like Best Buy, the brand seems well-positioned for continued growth and innovation.
