As the countdown to Apple’s highly anticipated “Wonderlust” event dwindles to less than 48 hours, where the tech giant will unveil its cutting-edge iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, a recent, unanticipated rumor has surfaced. This speculation hints at Apple not only bidding farewell to its leather case lineup but also gradually phasing out its silicone accessories.
This latest tidbit comes courtesy of an anonymous source cited by MacRumors. The report clarifies that the transition away from silicone will not happen overnight; instead, it will unfold gradually, with existing models remaining untouched by new color variations.
Much like Apple’s previous shift away from leather, this change is rooted in environmental and sustainability concerns. The report underscores that silicone accessories will make way for “more eco-friendly next-generation materials.”
Apple boasts an extensive array of accessories crafted from silicone rubber and fluoroelastomer materials. This encompasses iPhone cases, Apple Watch bands, AirTag add-ons, and more.
The pivot away from rubber and fluoroelastomer is poised to be a substantial undertaking, particularly when it comes to the beloved and budget-friendly Apple Watch bands. This is perhaps why the report emphasizes that the transition will be a gradual process, in contrast to the leather shift.
With the forthcoming iPhone 15 lineup, Apple is set to introduce a novel material known as “FineWoven” for its premium iPhone cases. These cases are described as employing an “imitation leather” material, with some supply chain sources even dubbing them “Magsafe environmental protection cloth leather cases.”
Additionally, whispers of a new Apple Watch band style have surfaced this year. The source suggests that this band will feature a magnetic clasp design and will be constructed from the same woven material as the FineWoven cases for the iPhone 15. Remarkably, this new band is expected to carry a price tag of $99, aligning it with the cost of the Braided Solo Loop and offering a $50 saving compared to Apple’s Modern Buckle band.
The eagerly awaited iPhone 15 Apple event is scheduled to commence at 10 a.m. PT on Tuesday, September 12. Keep an eye on 9to5Mac for comprehensive coverage of all the announcements. To delve deeper into what Apple has in store for its “Wonderlust” event, refer to our comprehensive guide. For in-depth details about the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, explore our dedicated guides.
