With the iPhone 15 series, Apple may replace its Silicon phone covers with new ‘FineWoven’ ones

By 2030, Apple hopes to have made every product it produces carbon neutral. Every Apple product will be produced using sustainable energy and even more recycled and renewable materials, according to the Cupertino-based tech company. Apple apparently intends to phase out its silicone rubber and fluoroelastomer accessories as part of this program and replace them with accessories composed of more environmentally friendly next-generation materials.

Apple is rumored to be switching from its silicone accessories, such as the iPhone Silicone Case with MagSafe, Sport Band, and Solo Loop, to a more sustainable fabric called “FineWoven.” According to MacRumors, Apple is swiftly aiming to replace its silicone attachments with “more eco-friendly next-generation materials,” citing leaks from Kosutami, Apple’s device collector and leaker.

Apple has stopped selling leather accessories, and it is now apparently intending to stop selling silicone products as part of a larger effort to switch to more environmentally friendly materials. The carbon footprint of Apple’s silicone rubber accessories is smaller than that of leather, although no recycled materials are used in their production. Additionally, due to their heat-resistant qualities and sturdy, crosslinked structure, materials like fluoroelastomer, which are frequently employed in these accessories, provide difficulties for recycling.

With the next iPhone 15 range, Apple is set to launch its sustainable “FineWoven” for its high-end iPhone covers. These cases are said to be made of “imitation leather” and are even reportedly referred to as “MagSafe environmental protection cloth leather cases.”

Apple’s first move toward using next-generation materials is expected to be the use of FineWoven, which will eventually replace leather and perhaps some silicone accessories. Future goals include the introduction of more environmentally friendly materials for other accessories.

Notably, the transition to Fine Woven will extend to the next Apple Watch Series as well as iPhone cases. In a previous post on X.com (previously Twitter), Bloomberg leaker-reporter Mark Gurman stated that he “expects Apple to begin moving away from leather on its Apple Watch bands as well.” He also disclosed that Apple has begun providing employees with up to 90% off Hermes leather accessories (including leather link bands). This supports Apple’s decision to clear its inventory in order to bring in new eco-friendly accessories.

According to rumors, the iPhone 15 cases and the new Watch series bands would both be constructed of FineWoven fabric. The band will have a magnetic clasp and cost $99, which is the same price as Apple’s Modern Buckle band and $50 less than the Braided Solo Loop.

Apple is getting ready to host its yearly “Wonderlust” event to introduce the latest models of its devices, including the iPhone Series, new Watch Series, and more. At the launch event, which will be broadcast live from the company’s Cupertino headquarters on September 12 at 10:00 PM IST, more information regarding the new “FineWoven” material is probably to be revealed.