Apple’s FineWoven accessories, introduced as an eco-friendly alternative to leather, appear to be on the brink of discontinuation after only a year.
Introduced last September alongside the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models, FineWoven accessories, including iPhone cases and Apple Watch bands, were touted as a luxurious and eco-friendly alternative to traditional leather. However, what was initially marketed as a step forward in both luxury and environmental responsibility has instead led to widespread consumer dissatisfaction.
FineWoven accessories were meant to offer a refined, high-end feel while promoting Apple’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. The material, made from 68% post-consumer recycled content, was designed to replace the leather accessories that had been a staple of Apple’s accessory lineup for years. The company promised a product that was not only environmentally friendly but also durable and stylish. The FineWoven cases and bands were marketed at premium prices—$59 for iPhone cases and MagSafe wallets, $35 for AirTag holders, and $99 for Apple Watch bands—suggesting that consumers were paying a premium for an eco-conscious choice.
Despite these lofty promises, the FineWoven accessories have faced considerable backlash. Customers have reported rapid deterioration of their cases and bands, with common issues including peeling edges, scratches that resemble “an old CD,” and discoloration akin to a “rotten banana.” Prominent tech reviewers and everyday users alike have voiced their frustrations, highlighting how the FineWoven material fails to live up to its promises of luxury and durability. Tech journalist Joanna Stern notably shared her experience, illustrating the extent of the wear and tear her FineWoven case had undergone in just a few months.
The poor reception of FineWoven accessories has not gone unnoticed. Recent reports from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reveal that stock levels of FineWoven cases and Apple Watch bands are at an all-time low. This low inventory often indicates one of two possibilities: either Apple is preparing to introduce an updated lineup with new colors and improved features or the company is on the brink of discontinuing the product line altogether. Given the history of customer complaints and the halted production rumors from April, it seems increasingly likely that Apple may opt to phase out FineWoven.
Apple’s FineWoven design, while promising a premium experience, has fallen short in execution. Despite cleaning guidelines and customer support, many users continue to face issues with the product’s durability and appearance, significantly undermining its perceived value. This disconnect between marketing and reality has led to a growing dissatisfaction among users who have found FineWoven cases and bands to be inferior to their leather and silicone alternatives.
As the tech giant gears up for its September 9 “It’s Glowtime” event, speculation mounts regarding the future of FineWoven accessories. The event will likely unveil the iPhone 16 series, and attention will be focused on whether Apple will revert to leather accessories or introduce an entirely new material. For consumers who have been disappointed by FineWoven, the hope is that Apple will address the issues and deliver a more durable and high-quality accessory lineup with the new iPhone models.
