Wesley Hilliard
An internal memo from Apple to retail employees offers little help regarding iPhone FineWoven case material complaints over durability and build quality.
Apple has moved away from leather products in favor of a more sustainable FineWoven material. The suede-like cloth material falls short in several ways, as we covered in our review.
Apple sent out an internal memo to retail employees in response to customer complaints and questions, and it was seen by 9to5Mac. The memo didn't offer much helpful information and repeated much of what was shared on Apple's website.
"You may get questions from customers about the appearance of the new FineWoven material, how it wears over time, and how to care for it," the memo stated. "You can let customers know the FineWoven material is made from a luxurious microtwill, with a soft yet durable suede-like texture."
When asked about durability, employees should explain that cases "may look different and show wear over time as the fibers get compressed with normal use." The memo adds that "some scratches may diminish over time."
The memo also shares previously known information, like how MagSafe accessories may leave imprints and how to clean the material. Like other Apple products, Apple recommends wiping down the case with a damp, lint-free cloth.
FineWoven may have been a mistake as a case material, though time will tell if Apple abandons the option. It is yet to be seen how the material will endure as an Apple Watch band, which are now available to order.
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Andrew Orr
Amber Neely
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13 Comments
does apple know something we don't? after 30-60-90 days, does the material suddenly look good? Or is just a line to get people to buy a new one every month hoping it somehow works better and lasts longer "this" time?
Do people really expect something made from recycled plastic to be durable. Recycled plastic isn’t as good as virgin plastic.
have a finewoven case... saw some preliminary reports of issues, gave it a quick spray of DWR, I actually thought I might end up being ok with it. Couple things ruined it for me
the combo textile back and cheapish plastic on the sides isn't a winning combo. In fact, any case that goes for "premium" back and then has cheapish plasticky sides, just doesn't work. Nomad goods comes closest to pulling it off but tbh I don't care for theirs, as nice as it is, because of this.
second complaint, the fit/finish is disappointing. It's not rampantly loose on the phone, but there's a decent amount of flex/creak that feels anything but premium. Hard pass.
My favorite case... Vaja. Their grip case is crazy expensive, like $100, but it's basically perfect. full wrap leather, no cheap exposed plastic sides, openings vs cutouts for buttons, raised lip for front protection, fit is great (as you would expect for the price). Their 14 pro max grip case actually fits the 15 pro max, which is surprising based on the size differences.
My point is... that's a tiny company. Someone that can offer that quality, that number of customizations, etc... Apple should be able to match the basics at a discount. Apple embraces watch bands. Embrace cases just a touch more. Do what they do with a wool blend. The finewoven case effort makes you feel like they are denying a case is a thing for most people, which is about the dumbest thing ever.
I got the new Apple case and so far I‘m positively surprised. I was expecting worse. I don’t think the sides are much different from the back. They also show the fine woven texture, likely from the same material. Just the padding underneath is harder. The main issue will be how the case ages over time. Like with sneakers, jeans or wooden furniture, aging can add a nice and pleasing patina. If this will also by the case with the new Apple cases, time will tell. It can go both direction – shabby and worn out or nicely worn in with character and patina.