A cable release accessory releases an electrical cable that is connected to an electrical device, such as a handheld moving beam reader or a handheld imaging reader for electro-optically reading symbols. The cable is terminated by a male connector that engages a female socket in the housing during reading. The male connector has a movable locking clip that releases the cable when moved. The accessory includes a holder mounted on the cable exteriorly of the device, and an elongated actuator supported by the holder and extending into the device into an overlying relationship with the locking clip. The actuator is movable against the locking clip for depressing the locking clip to release the cable.