A:AnswerWhen case is open and the cover folded back, it is the elastic strap that your fingers are to slip under. Not really a "strap" but it does help hold the iPad more securely
A:AnswerThe case does not automatically turn the screen off. You can close the case and let the iPad power management time out the screen. Or you can merely quickly press the narrow little button at the top corner of the iPad. Less to go wrong. Not a hardship.