2024-09-12 09:49:28
With the iPhone 15, Apple introduced a new material for accessories. Now the company is removing it from its range.
The new “FineWoven” material that Apple introduced with its iPhone 15 was supposed to be more sustainable than the leather accessories offered before. For buyers of the accessories made from the fabric, it was one thing above all: a nuisance.
With the launch of its new iPhone 16 smartphone, the company has now almost completely abandoned its vegan leather. Apple only still offers the “Wallet with MagSafe” credit card case. There are no cell phone cases made of the material for the iPhone 16 models.
At its September event on Monday, the company only showed transparent cases and cases made of silicone. Apple also introduced its own Beats-branded iPhone cases. Ten years ago, Apple acquired the company for $3.2 billion.
Apple had opted for the “FineWoven” material rather than leather for environmental reasons. Shortly after the launch, it became clear that the material was not an alternative. Magazines wrote that the new cell phone cases were terrible. Apple should therefore “take them off sale and refund everyone who has already bought one.”
Even Apple’s attempts to limit the damage apparently did not help. The company sent a memo to its store employees at the time. It contained clear instructions on how to answer customer questions about the new material.
If questions arise about durability, employees should explain that the accessories “may look different and show signs of wear over time as the fibers are compressed during normal use,” it said.
Previously, media had reported that employees in Apple stores were required to replace the iPhone cases displayed in the store every day to hide signs of wear and tear.