Apple's new iPhone Pocket, priced at £220, has been ridiculed by netizens as "a torn sock."

Apple faced a wave of online ridicule after announcing a new iPhone carrying case.

The US tech giant unveiled the "iPhone Pocket" on Tuesday, priced at £219.95, but it has been met with ridicule as it is little more than a novel way to carry a phone.

Many people criticized its high price online, while others mocked it for resembling ordinary knitted shoes—one X user even jokingly called it "$230 for a shredded sock."

Well-known tech YouTuber Marques Brownlee said this could serve as a litmus test for "Apple fans" to see if they would "buy or maintain any product Apple releases".

In a press release, Apple stated that the brightly colored accessory is part of a limited-edition collection in collaboration with the Japanese fashion brand Issey Miyake.

The late fashion designer had previously collaborated with the tech company to create the iconic black turtleneck sweater worn by its co-founder, Steve Jobs.

Apple says the product was inspired by "a piece of fabric" and its concept originated from "the idea of ​​creating an extra pocket."

The bag will be available in eight colors for the short shoulder strap and three colors for the long shoulder strap.

"The Boundaries of Loyalty"

The release of this bag sparked criticism on social media, with many arguing that it showed Apple fans were "willing to pay for anything."

The bag's open design and sock-like structure have also drawn criticism. One X platform user commented, "No zippers, no support structure, and considering how many iPhones are being stolen these days... what kind of security does this offer?"

Some even made fun of the product by posting photos of actor Sacha Baron Cohen as the fictional character Borat, implying that the product resembled his bright green halter-neck bodysuit.

However, some defended it, pointing out that the price might stem from the collaboration with Issey Miyake, calling it a "tribute to Apple's history."

Social media consultant and analyst Matt Navara told the BBC that the pricing seems to be less about "features" and more about "form, brand and exclusivity".

He stated, "This type of pricing is not new in the world of luxury fashion or designer collaborations."

"But for most consumers, this feels like Apple is testing the limits of brand loyalty."