We recently informed you of reports that Apple planned to replace the leather cases in the next iPhone 15 series with woven-style ones. Now, a fresh rumor suggests that the tech giant may potentially make some adjustments to the Apple Watch Series 9 bands.
Mark Gurman of Bloomberg reported on X that Apple might stop using leather for Apple Watch bands. This follows his discussion of the leaked leather-free iPhone 15 cover. In a later update, Gurman said that as Apple gets rid of its leather inventory, employees may be able to get great deals on Hermès bands.
Gurman notes that “I’m told that Apple last month started offering employees its Hermes leather accessories (and leather link bands) at up to 90% off,” which he interprets as an attempt by Apple to get rid of the last of its unsold inventory.
The clearance or discontinuation of a product line is often signaled by reductions for Apple employees, but it’s unclear whether Apple would completely sever connections with a luxury brand like Hermès. Fortunately, because the Apple Wonderlust event is only a week away, we’ll soon have a clearer image.
An earlier report said that Apple would introduce a new Apple Watch band with woven fabric materials and a magnetic buckle to replace the leather bands for the Apple Watch Series 9.
Gurman believes that the shift from leather to fabric materials will make environmental and sustainability themes more prominent than normal at the event on September 12 when we expect to see not only the iPhone 15 series and Watch Series 9 but also a brand-new Watch Ultra.
Given that leather manufacture leaves a noticeably large carbon footprint, Apple’s decision to abandon leather may have been motivated by environmental considerations. Discontinuing leather accessories is in line with the company’s objective to becoming more environmentally conscientious.
However, if the decision actually involves fully giving up leather bands and cases, it may disappoint many customers who value the best leather, particularly those who adore Hermès.