Apple May Be Planning to Discontinue All of Its Silicone Accessories

Apple may be planning to discontinue its silicone rubber and fluoroelastomer accessories, replacing them with ones made of more eco-friendly next-generation materials, MacRumors has been told.

iPhone 14 and 14 Plus New Silcone Case Colors Feature
The move is expected to include accessories such as the iPhone Silicone Case with MagSafe, Sport Band, Solo Loop, and AirTag Loop. The rumor comes from Apple device collector and leaker known as "Kosutami," who has previously shared information about the iPhone 15's braided USB-C cable, various prototypes such as the MagSafe chargers and AirPods in different color options, and more.

Apple is widely expected to discontinue its leather ‌iPhone‌ cases following the introduction of the ‌iPhone 15‌ lineup, replacing them accessories made with a premium material marketed as "FineWoven." The discontinuation of silicone accessories is not expected to be imminent, instead taking place via a more gradual transition whereby existing models are not refreshed with new color options. For example, Sport Band may not be refreshed with new color options following the launch of the Apple Watch Series 9, being available until supplies of the current units run out. Apple is expected to release new accessory designs, such as a "FineWoven" Apple Watch band with a magnetic buckle, to replace its outgoing products.

The discontinuation of all leather and silicone Apple accessories is believed to be part of a wider move to transition to more environmentally friendly materials. While Apple's silicone rubber accessories have a lower carbon footprint than their leather counterparts, they are not made with any recycled materials. Materials like fluoroelastomer are also difficult to recycle due to their heat-resistant properties and strong, crosslinked structure.

"FineWoven" is expected to be the first next-generation material used by Apple, replacing leather in the immediate term, but it could also displace some silicone accessories at some point. There will likely also be other new, more eco-friendly materials introduced on other accessories in the future.

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Top Rated Comments

klasma Avatar
23 months ago
The end of Apple Silicone. :(
Score: 42 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Gengar Avatar
23 months ago
Honestly they should, they’re just plastic with a thin silicone layer that rubs/peels off too easily. They’re not worth $50. AT&T often has them on sale for $10, that’s about all they’re really worth.

The leather cases will be missed though (even though their quality slipped over the years too).
Score: 37 Votes (Like | Disagree)
abatabia Avatar
23 months ago
Silicone cases are the only cases I ever get for my iPhones. They are comfortable and last a long time. Here’s hoping whatever they replace it with is as durable and the same price!
Score: 34 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Urban Splash Avatar
23 months ago
‘Next generation’. It’s a case ffs. Can’t wait to hear the nonsense they described the new ones. Oh, by the way, ‘next generation’ means ‘price increase’
Score: 34 Votes (Like | Disagree)
contacos Avatar
23 months ago
Bye chipping overpriced crap
Score: 32 Votes (Like | Disagree)
himanshumodi Avatar
23 months ago
This product was never worth the asking price. Felt nice and comfy - for the first 2 weeks. And then the horror of watching your £50 case dis-integrate, tiny flake at a time...
Score: 32 Votes (Like | Disagree)