Apple is facing an online backlash after launching a new product that critics have called ridiculous: the iPhone Pocket.
On Reddit, the product sparked a wave of ridicule and dismay, especially among a community tired of the spike in consumption.
Photo credit: Reddit
The product itself is exactly what it sounds like – a designer pocket accessory designed to “wear and carry” your iPhone. But instead of generating excitement, the launch sparked a debate about waste, unnecessary accessories and the role the tech industry plays in fueling overconsumption.
A post in the r/Anticonspiration subreddit titled “Baby, wake up. The latest consumerist bullshit just dropped,” quickly caught the attention of the community, with commenters questioning why anyone would need a separately branded pocket for a device that already fits in a pocket.
Jokes aside, many commenters argued that the product exemplified overconsumption and prompted consumers to often buy unnecessary items—either because it was an “it” new product or simply because the company made products that needed to be replaced within a certain period of time, leading to an ever-increasing amount of e-waste.
Then there are concerns about environmental impact. Accessories like these often involve additional materials, packaging, and shipping—none of which effectively extend the life of the device or reduce waste.
Despite Apple’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, products like these seem to encourage more consumption, not less. For eco-conscious consumers, this contradiction strikes a nerve.
Fortunately, solutions like right-to-repair laws offer consumers alternatives to the ongoing cycle of “buying a new product every other year.” Other options, such as “Buy Nothing” groups and shopping at thrift stores, can help consumers save money on the items they need while preventing waste from accumulating in landfills.
The reactions kept coming.
“My pants already have pockets. This is ridiculous,” one user commented.
“People already knit stuff like this,” another wrote, referring to the many artisans who run small businesses on Etsy.
A third said: “Honestly if I saw someone holding this thing without knowing anything about the product I’d probably think they upgraded some kids tights.”
Get TCD’s free newsletter for simple tips to save more, reduce waste and make smarter choices, and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD’s exclusive Rewards Club.
