Apple, renowned for its innovative technology and elegant designs, is stepping into the realm of simplistic fashion with its newest offering—the iPhone Pocket. This unique accessory, developed in collaboration with the esteemed fashion label Issey Miyake, is described as a knitted strap designed primarily to provide an additional carrying pocket for iPhones.
Set to launch this Friday, the iPhone Pocket is compatible with all iPhone models and comes in a variety of colors to suit different styles. Molly Anderson, Apple’s vice president of industrial design, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, praising the design philosophy shared by Apple and Issey Miyake. “This clever extra pocket exemplifies those ideas and is a natural accompaniment to our products,” she stated, highlighting the practical yet fashionable aspects of the Pocket, which is suitable for carrying not just an iPhone but also AirPods and other small items.
The iPhone Pocket’s design allows for versatility in how it is worn—over the shoulder, tied onto bags, or held by hand. The short version of the Pocket will retail for $149.95, while the long version will be priced at $229.95. This pricing has sparked some controversy, with social media users questioning the value of what one called “an insanely expensive sock.” Comparisons have emerged, with some likening the Pocket to the iconic “mankini” worn by Sacha Baron Cohen’s character Borat, illustrating the skepticism surrounding the accessory’s practicality versus its price.
Despite the mixed reactions, technology analyst MG Siegler posited that the iPhone Pocket signals a broader trend of transitioning the iPhone into a wearable item. Highlighting the historical context, he noted that what began with armbands for fitness enthusiasts has evolved into wearable accessories for everyday life. Siegler also mentioned the Apple iPhone Crossbody Strap launched earlier this year, which retails at $59, pointing to the ongoing expansion of Apple’s accessory line aimed at enhancing personal style.
As Apple continues to blend technology with fashion through innovative partnerships, the iPhone Pocket embodies a unique intersection of usability and style, inviting users to see their devices not just as tech but as part of their everyday apparel.