Novinky already wrote about the frenzy that broke out around the Pocket iPhone. The limited edition fabric case went on sale during November in selected markets, which did not include the Czech Republic. The interest was so enormous that the novelty sold out almost immediately.
This was taken advantage of by dealers who bought the cases in official Apple stores with the sole purpose of reselling them and “greasing their pockets”. News on the eBay portal came across offers for tens of thousands of crowns.
But Chinese manufacturers, who do not worry too much about trademarks and copyrights, also sensed the opportunity. Advertising internet portals were literally flooded with copies of this limited edition. And it probably goes without saying that the prices are much more attractive.
Huge price differences
The version with a short strap was sold in the official Apple store after the premiere for $149.95 (CZK 3,140), and the longer version even for $229.95 (CZK 4,820). However, dealers raised the prices much higher. Paradoxically, the cheapest offers included ads with a price tag of $699 (CZK 14,500), but cases for $999 (CZK 20,700) were no exception. In one ad, the dealer even valued the novelty at 1,999 pounds (55,270 CZK) with the “buy now” option, however, the auction started at 350 pounds (9,680 CZK).
Price tags for Chinese copies start at $19.99, i.e. converted to CZK 414. Really good pieces, which are almost indistinguishable from the original – at least according to the feedback of satisfied customers, are offered for $43.99 (CZK 911).
If you decide to buy a Chinese copy, caution is in order. Some sellers charge significantly higher price tags for fakes, so it is possible to come across copies with a price tag of $73.99 (CZK 1,530).
Photo: repro eBay
Collaboration with the Miyake brand
Apple invited the Miyake brand to collaborate on a fabric case. At first glance, the iPhone Pocket looks unobtrusive: soft, ribbed knit, simple shape, a few color options. According to the creators, the magic lies precisely in simplicity.
“The design of the iPhone Pocket expresses the bond between the iPhone and its user, while keeping in mind that an Apple product is designed to be universal in terms of aesthetics and versatile in use,” said Yoshiyuki Miyamae, design director of Miyake Design Studio.
The design is based on the philosophy of “one piece of fabric”, which the Miyake brand has been developing in its collections for a long time. Cooperation with Apple Design Studio then ensured that the product did not lose the typical purity and functionality that fans of the brand are used to.
In practice, the iPhone Pocket adapts – reaching out, hugging the phone and allowing it to remain in view. It can be carried in the hand, over the shoulder or clipped to a bag. In short, as it suits you. Thanks to the universal dimensions, it is of course also possible to insert phones from competing brands.
The color palette is playful – from lemon to peacock blue – and offers the possibility to combine different lengths and shades of straps.
“We intentionally chose the color palette so that users can create their own combinations that match the model and color of their iPhone. With a recognizable silhouette, it is a stylish way to carry iPhone, AirPods and other things that users use every day,” said Molly Anderson, Apple’s vice president of industrial design.
Photo: archive of the manufacturer
The range of colors is really wide.
