Apple’s got its own version of the Labubu. Apple has launched a multitude of products over the past many years, but nothing, absolutely nothing, has divided the internet quite like the iPhone pocket!
The collaboration doesn’t come as a total surprise since many tech brands are venturing into collaborations with fashion houses like the Oura Ring x Gucci, Chanel PREMIÈRE SOUND watch, Hermes Apple Watch and many more.
The iPhone pocket comes in collaboration with Japanese designer Issey Miyake and is priced at $149.95 for the short (16″) and $229.95 for the long (31.5”) strap version. Instagram loves it. X hates it. TikTok can’t stop making memes of it. And us at WearableXP? We’re still trying to figure out if this thing is iconic or just an insanely overpriced sock.
Design, Specs and Features
It seems like Apple was influenced by Hailey Bieber’s Rhode phone case with this new launch. The 3D-knitted sleeve definitely feels premium and not cheap. But Apple calls it “functional”, well, that depends on what functional means to you.
Yes, it can hold a few other things on top of your iPhone, like some cash, cards, AirPods and maybe your lip balm, but is it better than carrying a bag? It is definitely more fashion engineering than tech engineering.
Specifications of the iPhone Pocket
| Specifications | iPhone Pocket |
|---|---|
| Material | Nylon (14%), Polyester (85%), Polyurethane (1%) |
| Height | 0.4 in. / 1 cm |
| Length | 31.5 in. / 80 cm |
| Width | 2.5 in. / 6.3 cm |
| Mfr. Part Number | NM58AG00244L |
| UPC or EAN No. | 850079597099 |
Features of the iPhone Pocket
- Special edition with limited availability.
- 3D-knitted textile sleeve.
- Stretchy buy structured.
- Available in long and short lengths.
- Available in bold and unique colors.
- Highly versatile wearability.
Compatibility of the iPhone Pocket
| iPhone Models | AirPods Models |
|---|---|
| iPhone Air | AirPods Pro 3 |
| iPhone 17 Pro | AirPods Pro 2 |
| iPhone 17 Pro Max | AirPods Pro 2 with MagSafe Charging Case (Lightning) |
| iPhone 17 | AirPods Pro (1st generation) with MagSafe Lightning Charging Case |
| iPhone 16 Pro | AirPods (3rd generation) with MagSafe Charging Case |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | AirPods with Wireless Charging Case (2nd generation) |
| iPhone 16 | |
| iPhone 16 Plus | |
| iPhone 16e | |
| iPhone 15 Pro | |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | |
| iPhone 15 | |
| iPhone 15 Plus | |
| iPhone 14 Pro | |
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | |
| iPhone 14 | |
| iPhone 14 Plus | |
| iPhone 13 Pro | |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max | |
| iPhone 13 mini | |
| iPhone 13 | |
| iPhone 12 Pro | |
| iPhone 12 Pro Max | |
| iPhone 12 mini | |
| iPhone 12 | |
| iPhone 11 Pro | |
| iPhone 11 Pro Max | |
| iPhone 11 | |
| iPhone XS | |
| iPhone XS Max | |
| iPhone XR | |
| iPhone X | |
| iPhone 8 | |
| iPhone 8 Plus |
Usability
Yes, the iPhone pocket does what Apple claims- it holds your iPhone securely, along with a couple of other small accessories such as your AirPods. However, the usability raises some legitimate concerns:
Pros of the iPhone Pocket
- It is significantly light-weight than most other sling bags.
- The knitted fabric holds the phone quite firmly and is not flimsy.
- The knit also won’t overheat your phone.
- It will definitely be easier to fetch my phone from the iPhone pocket rather than the Narnia I tend to carry in my tote bags.
Cons of the iPhone Pocket
- If you trip, the iPhone pocket isn’t very secure to save your phone.
- No pockets, no NFC, no magsage, no zip closure to protect against theft, especially in places like London.
- The fabric is not waterproof; therefore, it will absorb moisture if it rains.
Who is the iPhone Pocket Actually For?
While I don’t see how it is a “need”, Apple having the brand loyalty they have and creating a “special edition” accessory, grabbed more than just attention. First, it was only physically available in select Apple store locations worldwide and on Apple’s web store in the U.S, U.K., France, Italy, China, Singapore, Japan and South Korea. Second, the limited edition meant that once it’s gone, it may never be back in stock.
Result: despite the memes, it sold out within minutes almost everywhere, with only a few select colours available in certain regions worldwide. As of 18th Nov, 2025, it is officially sold out everywhere.
So, here’s the breakdown:
Best for:
- People who only want to carry essentials while stepping out for grocery runs or hiking.
- Fashion enthusiasts who value design and brand name over functionality.
- Apple loyalists.
Not for:
- People who care more about the protection of their phones.
- Outdoorsy people because the weather can be unpredictable.
- People who tend to carry a lot of stuff and need functional storage while stepping out of the house.
- People who want tech-innovative accessories.
Final Verdict: Is the $230 Price Tag Justified?
From a strictly technical perspective, no, the $230 price tag is not justified in my eyes. But if you are looking at this from a design and craftsmanship perspective, possibly, depending on your priorities.
At the end of the day, you are paying for a high-end textile design from a very reputable fashion house. But at the same time, it lacks protection and functionality. It is a luxury product, not a utility and luxury is never about functionality; it is desire, not logic.
