Apple’s $230 iPhone Sock Sells Out, Clones Flood Market

UPDATE: Apple’s controversial $230 iPhone Pocket, designed in collaboration with renowned designer Issey Miyake, has sold out almost instantly despite initial ridicule. The high-fashion accessory, marketed at $150 for the short version and $230 for the cross-body style, has captured massive consumer interest, reflecting a burgeoning trend in mobile accessories.

The iPhone Pocket’s release coincided with a surge in demand for cross-body phone holders, particularly in Asia, where hundreds of thousands of similar products have flown off the shelves. Bloomberg reports that Apple’s latest offering has become a must-have item, with both models now unavailable online and in stores.

Despite the initial backlash, which labeled the accessory as impractical, the product’s rapid sell-out demonstrates a significant shift in consumer behavior. In fact, the iPhone Pocket follows a long line of quirky Apple accessories, harkening back to the $29 iPod sock introduced by Steve Jobs in 2004, which also faced skepticism at launch.

As Apple’s official stock dwindles, a wave of clones has inundated the internet. Budget versions of the iPhone Pocket are appearing on platforms like AliExpress, with prices starting as low as a few dollars. Even Amazon is seeing nearly $100 counterfeit versions listed by retailers, including those based in Gujarat, India.

Etsy is particularly saturated with dupes, with many listed for around $20 to $30. However, shoppers are urged to exercise caution when considering these alternatives. Researching fabric quality and manufacturing conditions is essential, as many knockoffs may not meet the same standards as the original.

For those feeling crafty this holiday season, a DIY approach is also an option. Knitting patterns for creating your own iPhone Pocket are available on Etsy. However, potential makers should be wary, as the market has been flooded with subpar instructions generated by AI tools, making it crucial to seek verified patterns.

The trend has sparked significant conversation online, with many sharing their opinions on social media, driving the viral nature of the accessory. As the demand for high-fashion tech accessories continues to grow, it’s clear that Apple’s influence remains strong, even amid skepticism.

Stay tuned for more updates on this rapidly evolving story as the world watches the rise of the iPhone Pocket clone phenomenon.