Why did Apple stop making leather iPhone cases?

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If you’re spending some of your hard-earned money on an iPhone, chances are you’re looking for a case to go with it. iPhone cases come in a wide range of designs, some focused on protection, others on style, and still others on practical features like card holders and kickstands. Indeed, when it comes to cases, iPhone owners are spoiled for choice.

Although the vast majority of iPhone cases are made by third-party suppliers, Apple also offers its own selection. In 2013, the same year the iPhone 5S launched, the Cupertino-based tech giant began offering a leather iPhone case, positioning it as a premium accessory.

But as climate awareness grew in the 2010s, environmentally conscious shoppers increasingly demanded action from major brands. Apple and many other leading companies have responded by setting sustainability goals. In 2012, for example, the iPhone maker committed to using 100% renewable energy for its main North Carolina data center – a goal it achieved the following year for all of its data centers worldwide. Apple later expanded this commitment to all company facilities worldwide, a milestone reached in 2018. And then, in 2023, as part of Apple’s ongoing environmental commitment to its goal of carbon neutrality by 2030, the company stopped selling its leather iPhone cases and other leather accessories, saying the material “has a significant carbon footprint.”

Apple’s efforts to become a greener company have put its leather accessories in the crosshairs. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), livestock supply chains are responsible for 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with livestock (beef and dairy) alone accounting for about two-thirds of that total, or about 9.7%. Given the significant environmental impact and high energy costs of producing leather, Apple has decided to phase out its leather iPhone cases and replace them in 2023 with a FineWoven model costing $59, the same price as its previous leather cases. Made from a microtwill fabric woven in a diagonal pattern, Apple described the material as “luxurious” and “stylish” and having a “suede-like feel.” It also has “significantly lower carbon emissions than leather.”

However, FineWoven iPhone cases were quickly widely criticized for lacking durability and quality, with scuffs and scratches appearing on many people’s cases after only a short period of use. Then, 2 years later, in 2025, Apple tried again with a new TechWoven design made from 100% recycled polyester. Reviews suggest it’s an improvement over FineWoven, with superior durability and stain resistance. Apple’s move away from leather cases means that those who still prefer a leather case for their iPhone now have to look elsewhere.

In addition to its TechWoven iPhone cases, Apple also offers silicone and clear plastic models, some of which feature MagSafe functionality for wireless charging, as well as various accessories. But there is also strong competition from a large number of third-party brands that can comfortably compete with Apple when it comes to iPhone cases, giving buyers a wide choice in design and materials.

For starters, anyone looking for a leather iPhone case has plenty to choose from, with Nomad and Smartish among many brands that can help. For those with butter fingers, some of the brands best known for their durable phone cases include offerings like Otterbox and Dbrand, the latter of which have moved from skins and cases to protective accessories. Meanwhile, iPhone owners who value practicality over durability might opt ​​for a wallet case that attaches to the phone and holds other items like your ID, bank cards, and cash.

Conveniently, many third-party iPhone cases also offer Apple’s proprietary MagSafe system for charging and attaching accessories. Third-party cases often have more attractive prices than Apple’s offerings, most of which cost between $39 and $59. While some argue that there’s simply no need for phone cases anymore, the reality is that if you want to use one to protect your iPhone, the biggest challenge you’ll face is navigating the dizzying array of options.