Apple’s New iPhone Pocket is a Weird but Fun Blast from the Past
Apple Reinvents Iconic Accessory with New ‘iPhone Pocket’
Apple have announced the “iPhone Pocket,” a new special-edition accessory designed as “a beautiful way to wear and carry iPhone.” The product is a formal collaboration with legendary Japanese fashion house ISSEY MIYAKE.
OG Apple fans might notice the product’s striking resemblance to the beloved “iPod Sock,” a simple, colourful knit sleeve Apple sold from 2004 to 2012. This new “Pocket” appears to be a significant evolution of that humble accessory.
Inspired by ISSEY MIYAKE’S “a piece of cloth” concept and iconic pleats, the accessory, which is crafted in Japan, features a “singular 3D-knitted construction.” This design, born from research at MIYAKE DESIGN STUDIO, creates a ribbed open structure that is designed to fit any iPhone.
The understated design fully encloses the iPhone but can also expand to fit a user’s other everyday items, such as AirPods. When stretched, the open textile allows users to peek at their iPhone display. The Pocket is designed to be worn in various ways, including handheld, tied onto a bag, or worn directly on the body.
“Apple and ISSEY MIYAKE share a design approach that celebrates craftsmanship, simplicity, and delight,” said Molly Anderson, Apple’s vice president of Industrial Design. “This clever extra pocket exemplifies those ideas and is a natural accompaniment to our products.”
Yoshiyuki Miyamae, design director of MIYAKE DESIGN STUDIO, added that the design “explores the concept of ‘the joy of wearing iPhone in your own way’” and echoes the ISSEY MIYAKE practice of “leaving things less defined to allow for possibilities and personal interpretation.”
Pricing and Availability
The iPhone Pocket is a special-edition release and will be available in two designs:
- The short strap design retails for USD149.95 (~RM700) and is available in eight colours: lemon, mandarin, purple, pink, peacock, sapphire, cinnamon, and black.
- The long strap design retails for USD229.95 (~RM1,000) and is available in sapphire, cinnamon, and black.
Customers can purchase the iPhone Pocket beginning Friday, 14 November, at select Apple Store locations and apple.com in the initial launch markets of France, Greater China, Italy, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, the UK, and the U.S.
Unfortunately for us in Malaysia, no local availability or official pricing has been announced by Apple at this time.
