Apple’s previous lineup of FineWoven cases for the iPhone
Apple has not announced a direct replacement for its unpopular FineWoven cases with the iPhone 16 and Apple Watch bands, but a very few remain on the Apple Store.
During the “It’s Glowtime” launch of the iPhone 16 range and more, Apple did take some time to promote its new cases — but they were not the expected FineWoven replacements. Rather than another wholesale ditching of a material in favor of a new one, Apple emphasized its Clear Case with MagSafe options.
FineWoven has not disappeared entirely, either. Currently the online Apple Store appears to have one FineWoven Wallet with MagSafe, an AirTag key ring, and one Apple Watch strap.
It was expected, and heavily leaked, that Apple would introduce non-FineWoven cases alongside the iPhone 16 launch. One purported leak, though, was quickly identified as a third-party knockoff rather than an official Apple release.
FineWoven may now be up there with the Butterfly keyboard in terms of having a bad reputation — although AppleInsider readers have reported liking both. But it came from Apple’s aim to completely remove the use of leather in its accessories.
Unfortunately, FineWoven was badly received — and given a “don’t buy” review by AppleInsider — for many reasons. The material reportedly stained easily, and also scratched easily, plus it simply did not feel good to many buyers.
Amazon even added a “Frequently Returned” label to its listings for the FineWoven iPhone cases.
Consequently, it was assumed that Apple would drop the line, especially following reports that the company had cancelled orders. However, it was presumed that the firm would have a replacement — especially since recent leaks also detailed what turned out to be an accurate description of a new Apple iPhone case.
We’ll never know how long Apple spent developing FineWoven as a replacement for leather. But if the company hasn’t given up on cases, it seems like it’s taking more than a year to come up with a replacement for FineWoven.
