Apple quietly discontinued the FineWoven iPhone cases it introduced a year ago. Offered as an environmentally friendly option, FineWoven cases were noted as a product developed to be used instead of leather. The company offered this case to its customers, which was made from 68 percent recycled material instead of animal products that are harmful to the environment, such as leather. However, the result for consumers was not as expected.
This material, which at first glance looked like leather, was actually both smooth and hard in texture. The surface of the case could be easily scratched and damaged by other items carried in the bag. This created an opportunity, especially for third-party iPhone case manufacturers. Because while leather gains a more beautiful patina as it ages, FineWoven cases were filled with scratches and stains after just a few days of use.
As expected, it turns out that Apple is not making FineWoven cases for the new iPhone 16 models. There are no new color options, nor are there FineWoven cases that fit the iPhone 16. This suggests that Apple is completely shelving FineWoven iPhone cases.
Apple hasn’t given up on FineWoven material entirely
However, the FineWoven material is not completely gone. Apple will continue to use the material in its MagSafe wallet and some Apple Watch bands. The MagSafe wallets are available in four different color options, and the Apple Watch bands will continue to use this environmentally friendly material. For those looking for a new iPhone look, Apple has introduced Beats-themed iPhone 16 cases. These cases are made of hard plastic material, not FineWoven.
Apple’s environmentally friendly initiatives have not performed as expected and customer dissatisfaction seems to have led the company to make changes to its product line. However, the company continues its efforts in this direction in different product categories without completely abandoning the use of recycled materials.