Tech giant Apple has unveiled a new, and decidedly retro, accessory that is causing a stir online. The 'iPhone Pocket', a knitted bag for carrying your phone, has been launched with a premium price tag that has left many consumers drawing comparisons to a much cheaper product from Apple's past: the iPod sock.
A Blast from the Past or a New Design Icon?
The new accessory, created in collaboration with the renowned Issey Miyake design studio, is intended to be worn either across the body or dangled from the wrist. Priced at £139.95 for the short strap version and £219.95 for the cross-body design, the product immediately sparked debate about its value.
Yoshiyuki Miyamae, design director at Miyake Design Studio, explained the philosophy behind the item. He stated it 'speaks to the bond between iPhone and its user' and explores the concept of 'the joy of wearing iPhone in your own way.' The design is inspired by the concept of 'a piece of cloth', resulting in a seamless product made from a single piece of fabric.
Social Media Reacts with Humour and Scepticism
However, the online reception has been mixed, with many users on platforms like Reddit pointing out the uncanny resemblance to the iPod sock, a simple knitted sleeve sold by Apple in 2004 for a far more accessible $29 for a pack of several. The comparison has been a dominant theme in the conversation surrounding the launch.
Further humorous comparisons were drawn, with one user likening the dangling pouch to the infamous 'mankini' worn by the character Borat. Others have questioned the practicality of flashing such an expensive and conspicuous Apple-branded accessory in busy areas like London's West End, especially amidst ongoing concerns about phone theft.
Availability and Legacy
Despite the scepticism, the special edition iPhone Pocket is set to go on sale from Friday. It will be available in a range of colours including lemon, mandarin, purple, pink, peacock, sapphire, cinnamon, and black.
The collaboration with Issey Miyake has a historical precedent; the late Japanese designer was responsible for creating the signature black turtleneck jumpers beloved by Apple co-founder Steve Jobs. The iPhone Pocket will be sold at a limited number of flagship stores globally. The only UK stockist will be the Apple Store on London's Regent Street.
