Apple’s latest fashion venture, the iPhone Pocket, is a knitted pouch designed to carry your phone – and it’s drawing comparisons to the company’s early-2000s iPod socks. The accessory, created in collaboration with designer Issey Miyake, comes in two sizes: a short strap version for $150 and a long strap version for $230.
A Nod to Nostalgia and Fashion
The iPhone Pocket isn’t a new concept. Apple previously sold similar fabric accessories for iPods, brightly colored woolly wraps that protected the devices in the mid-2000s. The reemergence of this style is notable, as it taps into current trends favoring utility and minimalist design, while also recalling a time when tech accessories were more playful and less essential.
Design and Functionality
The iPhone Pocket is made from a stretchy, 3D-knitted material with ribbed textures. It’s designed to hold not only your iPhone but also small items like AirPods, lip balm, or keys. The longer version functions as a crossbody strap, while the shorter version can be worn as a wristlet.
Apple’s design director, Yoshiyuki Miyamae, explained that the accessory’s simplicity is intentional. The idea is to create a versatile item that encourages personal interpretation and allows for multiple uses.
Availability and Reactions
The iPhone Pocket is available in select Apple stores across major fashion capitals like New York, London, Paris, and Singapore. Those outside these cities must order online.
Initial reactions have been mixed, with some comparing the design to a “mankini” or Dr. Seuss’ shape-shifting thneed. However, some consumers appreciate its practicality and the fashion statement it makes.
The Price Point and Broader Trends
At $150–$230, the iPhone Pocket is significantly more expensive than its iPod sock predecessors, which sold for $29. This price reflects the luxury brand collaboration and the current trend of high-end tech accessories.
The accessory’s release also aligns with Apple’s broader push into wearable tech. The company introduced crossbody straps for iPhones earlier this year, signaling a growing interest in how consumers integrate their devices into their lifestyles.
Ultimately, the iPhone Pocket is a blend of nostalgia, fashion, and functionality. It’s a reminder that even tech giants can revisit past trends and reimagine them for a modern audience.
