Apple launches the iPod Sock 2.0 for the iPhone—and it’s weird

While we’re waiting to see if there’s a new HomePod mini or Apple TV 4K update in store for this week, Apple on Tuesday released a surprising new product that no one saw coming: The iPhone Pocket. It’s basically what it sounds like: a wearable pocket designed to fit your iPhone.

Designed in collaboration with the studio of late Japanese fashion designer Issey Miyake, who famously designed Steve Jobs’ trademark black turtleneck, the iPhone Pocket features a “ribbed open structure” that stretches to fully enclose your iPhone as well as “more of a user’s everyday items.” Apple points out that the stretchable 3D printed material “subtly reveals its contents and allows users to peek at their iPhone display.”

The design is reminiscent of the iPod Socks, which were released in November 2004. Available in a pack of six colors, the colorful accessory was meant to act as a soft slipcase for an iPod while traveling. However, without a strap or a snap, the iPod Sock was somewhat impractical as a carrying case.

The iPhone Pocket appears to solve those issues. As described by Molly Anderson, Apple’s vice president of Industrial Design, “This clever extra pocket exemplifies those ideas and is a natural accompaniment to our products. The color palette of iPhone Pocket was intentionally designed to mix and match with all our iPhone models and colors — allowing users to create their own personalized combination. Its recognizable silhouette offers a beautiful new way to carry your iPhone, AirPods, and favorite everyday items.”

The iPhone Pocket is a “limited-edition release,” and will be available beginning Friday at select Apple Stores as well as online in France, Greater China, Italy, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, the UK, and the U.S. for $150/£139.95  (short strap), and $230/£219.95 (long strap). The short strap design is available in eight colors—lemon (yellow), mandarin (orange), purple, pink, peacock (teal), sapphire (blue), cinnamon (brown), and black—while the longer version comes in just three: sapphire, cinnamon, and black. 

If you have some cash burning a hole in your pocket you can buy one here: Apple U.S. or Apple U.K.

Apple iPhone Pocket

Price When Reviewed: £139.95 (short strap); £219.99 (long strap)

Best Prices Today: £139.95 at Apple

Or for alternative iPhone cases see our round up of the best iPhone 17 cases.