Apple's New iPhone Pocket: A Fashion Statement or a Pricey Misstep?
Tech giant Apple has unveiled a surprising new product: the iPhone Pocket. This accessory, designed specifically for carrying the iPhone, has instantly become a major talking point across the internet, creating a clear divide among users and tech enthusiasts.
Design, Collaboration, and a Nod to History
The new iPhone Pocket is not just any case; it is the result of a high-profile collaboration with the esteemed Miyake Design Studio. This is the company founded by the late, legendary designer Issey Miyake, who is famously credited with creating Steve Jobs' signature black turtlenecks. This connection to Apple's iconic co-founder has added a layer of historical significance to the launch for many.
However, the reception has been anything but unanimous. Shortly after the announcement, social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) were flooded with mixed reactions. One segment of users views the iPhone Pocket as Apple acknowledging its own history, a subtle callback to simpler times. The other, larger segment sees it as nothing more than a glorified and excessively priced iPhone Sock.
Netizens React: From Polishing Cloths to AI Lag
The online commentary has been swift and sharp. One user on X quipped, "I hope it will remain compatible with iPhone 18 next year. Can I use the Polishing Cloth on it? Will it need AppleCare+? So many questions!" This post cleverly referenced another infamous Apple product: the Polishing Cloth. This accessory, which Apple sells for $19 in the US and around ₹1,800 in India, has long been a subject of jokes in tech circles for its high price compared to standard microfiber cloths that perform the same function.
Another user expressed frustration about Apple's direction, writing, "AI is changing the world right now and what is Apple launching? A completely overpriced iPhone Pocket. Steve Jobs would have never done that." This comment highlights a growing sentiment that Apple has been lagging behind competitors like Google and Samsung in the fiercely competitive artificial intelligence race, making the launch of a fashion-centric accessory seem poorly timed to some.
A Niche Product with High-Fashion Appeal
Not all feedback was critical. Some users appreciated the design influence and predicted its success in certain markets. One observer noted, "The Issey Miyake influence explains the texture... and that price tag. It feels like the original iPod Socks just got a runway promotion. 230 dollars is steep for a strap, but the long version is absolutely going to sell out by Friday noon."
Echoing this sentiment, another user pointed out its potential niche appeal, stating, "No one here will understand it but it’s okay. This will be a very very popular item for richer Asian office ladies. They love Issey Miyake." This suggests that despite the online backlash, the product may find a dedicated audience that values the high-fashion collaboration.
The launch has also drawn inevitable comparisons to Apple's history. Many users recalled the iPod Socks, which were initially presented almost as a joke by Steve Jobs during a presentation but went on to become a popular accessory for protecting the iconic music players from scratches.
Ultimately, the iPhone Pocket has successfully captured attention, but the debate continues over whether it represents a clever piece of brand nostalgia or a sign that Apple is losing its innovative edge in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
