IT media MacRumors reported on the 10th (local time), citing sources, that Apple plans to stop producing accessories made of silicone rubber and fluorine rubber and replace them with environmentally friendly materials.
It has been reported that production of silicone iPhone cases and Apple Watch bands will be discontinued. (Photo = Apple)
According to reports, Apple plans to stop producing accessories such as iPhone silicone cases, Apple Watch sports bands, Solo Loops, and AirTack Loops made of silicone rubber and fluoroelastomer. The information came from Apple prototype collector Kosutami, who previously predicted the iPhone 15’s braided USB-C cable and AirPod prototype information.
According to reports, the discontinuation of silicone accessories will not occur immediately, but rather a more gradual transition without releasing new colors of existing models. For example, the Sports Band will not be available in new color options after the release of Apple Watch 9, and will likely be sold until the current product runs out of stock.
Apple is planning to release a new fabric case product. (Photo: Kosutami x)
Not long ago, it was reported that Apple would stop releasing leather iPhone cases after the launch of the iPhone 15 series and launch a new fabric case lineup called ‘FineWoven’. Apple is expected to release new accessory designs, such as a fine woven Apple Watch band with a magnetic buckle, to replace existing products.
Related articles
Apple’s move was analyzed as part of its move to switch to eco-friendly materials. Silicone rubber accessories have a lower carbon footprint than leather products, but are difficult to recycle.
The newly released fine woven material is a next-generation material used for the first time by Apple. It is expected to replace leather materials for the time being, but it is possible that it will replace some silicone accessories someday, and it is possible that new, more eco-friendly materials will be introduced to other accessories in the future. MacRumors reported that this is high.
