iPhone Pocket by Apple: Do You Need It?

A new Apple accessory is taking over the world by storm - it’s called the iPhone Pocket.

This product is a collaboration with Issey Miyake design studio, so we can already tell that it’s Apple’s latest nod at a fashion-influenced tech.

But is this expensive pouch a must-have for iPhone users? And is it worth it?

We’ll explore this very interesting iPhone accessory and help you decide if it’s worth your time (and money).

Let’s make one thing clear: the iPhone Pocket is not a phone case. It’s a wearable accessory made in collaboration with Miyake Design Studio (using the concept: a piece of cloth). So… it functions more as a (small) bag rather than a case.

Made with a knitted construction and a blend of polyester, polyurethane, and nylon, it features a stretchy pouch-like accessory to hold your iPhone (any model, as it expands to accommodate even the larger ones). You can also use it to carry your other essentials like AirPods and keys.

The iPhone Pocket is designed to be worn in several ways, such as in hand, attached to a bag (like a keychain, think Labubu), around the wrist, around the neck, and as a cross-body sling. Its open structure makes it easy to put your phone in and take it out.

The accessory comes in two versions: short and long.

Short strap model ($149.95)

This is available in bright colors of Lemon, Mandarin, Purple, Pink, Peacock, Sapphire, Cinnamon, and Black.

Long strap model ($229.95)

This is available in more neutral colors of Sapphire, Cinnamon, and Black.

Reactions to the iPhone Pocket have been… well, complicated.

The accessory sold out within hours of its release, which only proves that there’s a market for it. 

Still, this weirdly beautiful Apple product attracts mixed reactions from iPhone users, so we’ll take a look at some of the most interesting takes below.

Praises:

• Reviewers at CNET noted that the longer version feels secure and comfy to wear (especially as a cross-body pouch).

• A BBC article notes that some buyers like that it’s a limited-edition Apple product, as it gives the accessory a sense of exclusivity (this appeals the most to collectors and fashion-minded Apple fans).

• Insights from the same BBC article reveal that some users defend the high price as reasonable since it’s a collaboration with iconic fashion designer Issey Miyake. The iPhone Pocket is viewed more as a design piece than a simple tech accessory.

Criticisms:

• A Forbes article called the iPhone Pocket one of Apple’s most “underwhelming” and overpriced accessories.

• According to Apple Insider, the accessory is a major dust magnet and can pick up lint and debris on every surface.

• Yahoo News discussed how it surprisingly got sold out within hours despite mixed reviews and 'cut up sock' comparisons.

• The BBC’s article criticized the open-top design as a security concern.

• There’s this argument that the creation of the iPhone Pocket is like a “litmus test” of Apple fan loyalty. And that the product exists mainly to see how far consumers will go to buy anything Apple releases.

We really think that the iPhone Pocket is more of a fashion statement than a protective accessory. If you’re a fashion freak looking for a unique way to carry your phone and don’t mind the hefty price tag that goes with it, then this might be an exciting purchase for you.

A lot of people love their iPhone Pockets and say the price is justifiable since it’s a designer accessory. Remember, it has already sold out, and more and more people are still looking to buy it.

Still, for the average tech consumers who prioritize protection and value, this may not seem like a practical purchase. Let’s be real - it offers minimal protection and can even expose your phone to scratches (especially if you also put in your keys and coins in the iPhone Pocket together with your phone).

The bottom line here is that this new product from Apple is more of a luxury accessory rather than an everyday phone protection.

We’ve established that the Apple iPhone Pocket is a stylish phone carrier, but it’s not a protective case. Since it doesn’t offer protection against scratches, drops, and everyday wear, pairing it with a durable case is important.

Using the iPhone Pocket with a case like Thinborne gives the perfect balance of fashion and functionality for the following reasons:

• Keeps the Look and Feel - Thinborne cases are super-slim and lightweight, so they won’t add bulk to your iPhone Pocket. Our cases are also pocket-friendly, so they won’t cause problems with sliding your phone in and out of the knitted pocket.

• Aramid Fiber for Real Protection - Thinborne cases offer scratch and drop protection (minor falls only, not high-impact drops).

• Improved Grip - The case provides for a more grippy feel and reduces the risks of accidentally dropping your phone when taking it out of your iPhone Pocket.

• Balances Fashion and Function - By pairing the iPhone Pocket with a Thinborne case, you get the best of both worlds - fashion appeal and practical protection.

The iPhone Pocket is visually striking and surely a conversation piece. However, it doesn't offer real protection for your phone (plus, it’s quite expensive). If you love unique fashion accessories and are fond of collecting limited-edition Apple products, this iPhone accessory will surely make you giddy-happy.

But then… if you prioritize phone protection and practicality, please know that this knitted pouch won’t replace a traditional phone case.

So, if you want style and protection, you can get both - Thinborne’s thin phone case and the super in-demand iPhone Pocket.