A handheld electronic device case with quick-release anchoring capability includes a device case main body operable to engage a handheld electronic device and provide a protective cover therefor. A vacuum formation-and-release actuator is operable to establish a releasable vacuum connection between a rear surface of the handheld device, or a base of the case main body, or or an independent base of a universal vacuum connector incorporating the vacuum formation-and-release actuator, and a reference surface in order to detachably mount the handheld device to the reference surface. The releasable vacuum connection is provided by a controlled pressure zone that maintains a negative pressure differential relative to an external ambient pressure. The releasable vacuum connection is releasable by virtue of the vacuum formation-and-release actuator being movable in a manner that vents the controlled pressure zone.