Apple’s $230 iPhone Pocket ‘Sock’ Ridiculed For Looking Like Borat’s Mankini
Apple has recently unveiled its latest accessory, the iPhone Pocket, which has sparked a wave of criticism due to its hefty price tag of $230 and its seemingly simplistic design, likened to a “ribbed fabric sock.” This accessory, developed in collaboration with renowned designer Issey Miyake—known for creating some of Steve Jobs’ iconic turtleneck sweaters—aims to provide a stylish way to carry an iPhone. Apple describes the iPhone Pocket as a “beautiful way to wear and carry iPhone,” highlighting its unique 3D-knitted construction that draws inspiration from Miyake’s signature pleated clothing. Despite Apple’s lofty marketing, the reception has been overwhelmingly negative, with many questioning the practicality and value of such a product.
Critics have pointed out the iPhone Pocket’s lack of security features, noting that it offers no zip or structural integrity, which could make it an easy target for theft. Given the rising incidents of iPhone thefts, some users have expressed concern that the accessory not only signals the presence of an expensive device but also invites unwanted attention. Social media users have taken to platforms like Twitter to voice their skepticism, with one user highlighting the accessory’s glaring shortcomings in terms of security. The iPhone Pocket is marketed as a limited-edition item, available in vibrant colors such as lemon, mandarin, and sapphire, yet many are left wondering if the aesthetic appeal justifies the price point.
As Apple prepares to launch this accessory in select stores across various countries, including the U.S., UK, and Japan, the question remains whether consumers will embrace this high-fashion item or view it as another example of Apple’s penchant for charging premium prices for seemingly basic products. The iPhone Pocket’s debut serves as a reminder of the ongoing debate surrounding luxury branding in technology and whether consumers will continue to pay a premium for style over substance.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N5u0CQRzSuk
Apple’s just-announced iPhone Pocket accessory has been mocked over its $230 price point and threadbare nature — which has been described as simply being a ribbed fabric “sock.”
The high-fashion holder is described by Apple as a “beautiful way to wear and carry iPhone,” born out of a collaboration with designer Issey Miyake — who previously created some of late Apple leader Steve Jobs’ famous turtleneck sweaters.
But the response to iPhone Pocket has not been kind, with the overwhelming amount of feedback online suggesting that the accessory is emblematic of Apple’s ability to create products that fans will pay over-the-odds for — even those made out of fabric.
“Crafted in Japan, iPhone Pocket features a singular 3D-knitted construction that is the result of research and development carried out at Issey Miyake,” Apple wrote in its product description. “The design drew inspiration from the concept of ‘a piece of cloth’ and reinterpreted the everyday utility of the brand’s iconic pleated clothing.”
Apple says the iPhone Pocket is compatible with nearly all iPhone models, which is perhaps unsurprising as it is just a fabric bag you shove your smart device in. However, some Apple fans have sounded alarm that signalling you’re carrying a smart device — and can also afford a high-end holder that comes in brightly-colored designs — might only invite those looking to steal a phone.
“No zip, no structure and considering how many thefts of iPhones there are these days… no security?” wrote one social media user in response, as noted by
BBC News
. And then there’s the look of it, which is, well…
The new Apple iPhone Pocket! 😂🤦♂️
pic.twitter.com/bZM59K0MAd
— Erik Richter (@ErikJRichter)
November 11, 2025
iPhone Pocket is designed as limited-edition release, and available in lemon, mandarin, purple, pink, peacock, sapphire, cinnamon, and black colors. A version with a short strap costs $149.95, or its long strap design costs $229.95.
Select Apple Stores will begin taking orders in the U.S., UK, France, Greater China, Italy, Japan, Singapore and South Korea — should you be interested.
Tom Phillips is IGN’s News Editor. You can reach Tom at tom_phillips@ign.com or find him on Bluesky
@tomphillipseg.bsky.social
