Luxury goods retailer Hermès has quietly removed its entire range of leather bands for the Apple Watch from its online store, sparking speculation about the future of its partnership with Apple. This move comes just two days before Apple is expected to reveal the Apple Watch Series 9 and iPhone 15, an event that promises to be filled with excitement and anticipation. The removal of the leather bands has left many wondering if this marks the end of a partnership that has brought luxury and style to the Apple Watch, or if it’s simply a strategic move to update its online store with new accessories.
The partnership between Hermès and Apple has been a significant one, with the luxury retailer offering a range of high-end leather bands for the Apple Watch. However, Apple has been rumored to be moving away from leather on iPhone cases and Apple Watch bands due to environmental and sustainability concerns. This move would be in line with Apple’s renewed focus on reducing its carbon footprint and making its products more eco-friendly.
At the time of writing, Hermès’ website still offers a range of leather accessories for Apple products, including AirTag key rings, AirPods Pro cases, and a calfskin case for the iPhone 12. This suggests that while the company’s partnership with Apple may be changing, it’s not entirely coming to an end. Apple’s website also still displays several leather bands from Hermès, further reinforcing the notion that the partnership is still a part of the company’s plans.
Apple Watch
Rumors have been circulating about Apple’s plans to introduce a new range of synthetic bands and cases that may replace the leather options entirely. Mark Gurman, a renowned Apple reporter, has predicted that environment and sustainability will be a major focus of this week’s launch event. According to Gurman, Apple’s pivot away from leather may have significant implications for its partnership with Hermès, prompting the company to wonder what the future holds for its relationship with the high-end retailer.
The coming days promise to be filled with excitement and speculation as the tech world holds its collective breath for Apple’s new product lineup. When the company takes the stage to reveal its Apple Watch Series 9 and iPhone 15, all will be revealed about the direction that Apple will take. Will this mark the end of a partnership that has brought luxury and style to the masses, or will it simply be a new chapter in the ongoing collaboration between Apple and Hermès? Only time will tell.
