Apple’s latest product, the iPhone Pocket, has sparked significant criticism after its announcement on November 11, 2025. Designed in collaboration with renowned Japanese fashion house ISSEY MIYAKE, the accessory is essentially a 3D-knit pouch intended to carry an iPhone, resembling a large sock with an opening. The prices for this unusual item are set at $149.95 for a version with a shorter strap and $229.95 for a longer strap.
Social media users have been quick to mock the design, comparing it to everything from a sock to a swimwear item. One user humorously referred to it as “the smartphone condom,” while another expressed disbelief, stating, “I had to check the domain three times, I was so sure this was a joke.” This wave of ridicule has spread internationally, with users from various countries chiming in with their opinions.
Pricing and Release Details
Despite the backlash, Apple remains steadfast in its commitment to the iPhone Pocket. The accessory is scheduled to go on sale online on November 14, 2025, and will be available in physical stores across the US, UK, France, China, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and South Korea. The iPhone Pocket will be offered in eight colors, including lemon, mandarin, and sapphire, among others.
In their official announcement, Apple described the iPhone Pocket as an exploration of “the joy of wearing an iPhone in your own way.” The collaboration with ISSEY MIYAKE was inspired by the concept of “a piece of cloth,” reinterpreting the brand’s signature pleated designs into a functional phone carrier. Yoshiyuki Miyamae, the design director of MIYAKE DESIGN STUDIO, remarked, “The design of iPhone Pocket speaks to the bond between iPhone and its user, while keeping in mind that an Apple product is designed to be universal in aesthetic and versatile in use.”
Consumer Reactions and Comparisons
While many consumers have found humor in the product’s design and price, some iPhone users have defended the iPhone Pocket, arguing that traditional pockets in clothing serve the purpose without the hefty price tag. Critics have also pointed out that despite the expensive nature of the accessory, it is not the priciest item Apple has offered. In previous collaborations, such as with French luxury brand Hermès, Apple has sold designer Apple Watch bands for as much as $1,249.
The iPhone Pocket’s pricing has led to widespread comparisons, with some pointing out that even more extravagant options exist. For those seeking luxury, Apple also offers Caviar diamond cases, which can cost upwards of $8,000.
As the iPhone Pocket prepares for its official launch, it remains to be seen whether the combination of high fashion and high prices will resonate with Apple’s consumer base, or if the product will ultimately be dismissed as a novelty.
