In a notable shift following its latest event, Apple has made the decision to discontinue its FineWoven cases for the iPhone 16 lineup. The FineWoven material, introduced just last year as a sustainable alternative to leather, faced a wave of criticism from users who found the cases to be underwhelming.
Despite Apple’s environmentally conscious approach, the cases didn’t live up to expectations, with complaints about their durability and premium feel dominating customer feedback.
When FineWoven cases first launched alongside the iPhone 15, they were positioned as a high-end accessory. However, many users found them prone to scratches and wear, and the $59 price tag only added to the disappointment.
The material, which was meant to combine sustainability with luxury, failed to replicate the durability and tactile appeal of the leather cases it replaced. Apple seems to have quietly acknowledged these issues by omitting FineWoven cases from today’s event, instead promoting its more traditional Clear and Silicone options.
Curiously, despite the disappearance of the FineWoven cases, Apple has kept the FineWoven wallet available for purchase. Whether the wallet will face the same fate as the cases remains to be seen, but for now, Apple users looking for case options will have to turn to the more reliable alternatives.
