Apple has discontinued FineWoven iPhone cases, a braided synthetic material that arrived with the iPhone 15 and says goodbye with the iPhone 16.
Why it matters. Even a design-first giant like Apple can make a mistake when it comes to sustainability. FineWoven cases were the replacement for leather cases. Each cost $59.
In detail. The company introduced FineWoven cases as a sustainable product with 68% recycled content. From the beginning, many experts warned that the material was fragile and prone to getting dirty. They seriously wondered if it would retain its good looks after use. As the months went by, they were proven right: It looked terrible.
At Apple’s most recent Keynote, where it unveiled the iPhone 16 and many other products, the company didn’t mention any new FineWoven cases. However, Apple still sells two products made of this material:
- The MagSafe case for the iPhone.
- The keychain for the AirTag.
Presumably, the company is liquidating stock, and when it runs out, it will cease to exist. Rumors about Apple’s decision date back to April.
Between the lines, Apple seems to have passively acknowledged its mistake with these cases. While its intention to find alternatives to leather is laudable, the execution has failed. It seems complicated to find premium quality in sustainable alternatives.
Silicone and clear plastic cases remain Apple’s official options.
Now what? iPhone 16 buyers don’t have an official “vegan” and premium case option, so they’ll have to look to other brands for alternatives.
Apple, for its part, will have to rethink its accessories strategy. If this has happened to iPhone cases, wallets and keychains will likely suffer the same fate.
Sustainability efforts are laudable, but they make no sense if they come at the expense of lousy quality.
Image | Apple
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