WASHINGTON — In a move that blends art and technology, Apple has introduced its latest creation — an accessory that stands out in both design and functionality. This innovative piece is set to transform the wearable market, drawing inspiration from minimalist aesthetics and practical design.

Yes, you read that right: it’s essentially a sock for your phone.

Unveiled on Tuesday, this wearable phone sling is the result of a creative partnership between Apple and acclaimed Japanese fashion designer Issey Miyake. Dubbed the iPhone Pocket, Apple describes the accessory as having been inspired by “a piece of cloth.”

Set to hit select Apple stores this Friday, the iPhone Pocket will be available in a spectrum of colors. Its design resembles a chic sash or a petite purse crafted from textured corded fabric, offering versatile wearability by draping across the body, wrapping around the wrist, or attaching to another bag.

The concept for these diminutive knitted bags emerged from Miyake’s quest for extra storage space to securely carry essentials like a phone.

As with Apple products, the prices for the iPhone Pocket are eye-watering. The crossbody version of the pocket will retail for $229.95, while the shorter version will cost around $149.95. 

Customers reacted with understandable humor to the product. 

“iPod Socks walked so iPhone Pocket could run,” one user posted on X, referring to the joke product Apple released back in 2004. 

“Apple just made a $230 crossbody sock,” another user joked. 

Despite the bizarre-looking collaboration, Miyake actually has a long history with Apple. Miyake designed Steve Jobs’ iconic black turtlenecks, and he retired the shirts after Jobs died in 2011. 

It’s not the first time Apple has faced ridicule for its sometimes bizarre aesthetic choices. When AirPods were first released, they were routinely mocked by the public, who said the earbuds looked ridiculous. But in the years since, AirPods have become one of the most common in-ear devices on the market, and inspired a wave of similar products. 

So the iPhone Pocket may be just the first of a new generation of external pockets for carrying your essential items. But if the internet’s initial reaction is anything to go by, that seems unlikely.

As one social media user put it: “The new product iPhone Pocket might just be the strangest accessory the company has ever released.”