Apple’s $230 “iPhone Pocket” Sparks Outrage: Fashion or Just a Fancy Sock?

Apple has launched a new limited-edition accessory in collaboration with Japanese fashion designer Issey Miyake, called the iPhone Pocket. The accessory is a stretchy, 3D-knitted sleeve designed to carry an iPhone, and it comes with a strap that allows it to be worn cross-body. The longer strap version is priced at $229.95, while the shorter strap option costs $149.95.

Why People Are Upset

1. It Looks Like a Sock

The design of the iPhone Pocket has been compared to a sock, which has drawn criticism online. Many users joke that Apple fans will pay for anything as long as it has the Apple logo. The knitted design and soft materials make it appear more like a piece of clothing than a secure phone case, leading some to call it a “$230 sock.”

2. Safety Concerns

Another criticism revolves around security. The iPhone Pocket does not include a zipper or other closure mechanism, leaving the phone exposed. Users worry that the device could be easily removed by someone in a crowded area, making it less practical for everyday use in busy cities. Some comments online warned that it might not survive commuting or travel, raising questions about whether the accessory is more style than function.

3. High Price for Simple Materials

At $229.95, many people feel the iPhone Pocket is overpriced. The accessory is made of polyester, nylon, and other fibers, and while it is 3D-knitted with care, critics argue that similar items could be made at home or purchased on other platforms for a fraction of the cost. This has fueled debate about whether Apple is charging for the brand name rather than the utility or craftsmanship of the product itself.

Apple and Issey Miyake’s Perspective

Apple and Issey Miyake have defended the iPhone Pocket as a thoughtful blend of fashion and function. The designers describe it as inspired by the concept of “a piece of cloth,” meant to allow users to carry their iPhone in a flexible and personal way. The accessory can be worn in multiple styles — cross-body, looped onto a bag, or even on the wrist.

The iPhone Pocket is 3D-knitted using a detailed process that aims to balance form and function. Supporters of the design argue that it is more than just a sleeve: it is a fashion-forward statement that allows iPhone users to express style while carrying their device. Some early buyers appear to agree, as reports indicate that the accessory sold out quickly in some regions, despite widespread criticism.

Social Media Reactions

The reaction to the iPhone Pocket has been mixed. On one hand, critics argue that it represents “peak brand delusion,” a test of how far fans are willing to pay for a designer Apple accessory. Many have joked about its resemblance to a sock, and some call the pricing “absurd” given the simplicity of the materials.

Fashion vs. Function

The iPhone Pocket highlights a broader conversation about the intersection of technology and fashion. Apple has a long history of creating high-end accessories that sometimes prioritize design over functionality. The iPhone Pocket is a clear example of this approach: it is as much a fashion statement as it is a tool for carrying a device.

Some consumers argue that practicality should come first, especially when the accessory carries a significant price tag. Others, however, believe that Apple’s brand is about lifestyle as much as it is about devices, and that items like the iPhone Pocket reflect the aspirational nature of the brand.

Final Thoughts

The iPhone Pocket has sparked debate over price, design, and purpose. While some see it as a stylish and unique way to carry an iPhone, others view it as an overpriced, impractical accessory. The mixed reactions reflect the tension between fashion and functionality in the tech world and show how brand loyalty can influence consumer behavior.

Whether it will become a must-have for fashion-conscious tech enthusiasts or remain a controversial novelty, the iPhone Pocket proves that Apple continues to explore the limits of design, branding, and consumer expectations. For now, it remains a polarizing accessory — some call it innovation, others call it a $230 sock.

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