Key Takeaways
1. Apple’s FineWoven cases were discontinued due to quick scratches and stains.
2. TechWoven cases were introduced for the iPhone 17 Pro as an improved alternative.
3. The new material offers good resistance to liquids and scratches, with easy cleaning.
4. The coating has limitations: it doesn’t cover the edges fully and can wear away over time.
5. While TechWoven cases may last longer than FineWoven cases, they feel slippery and are not as durable as silicone cases.
Apple’s FineWoven cases faced a lot of backlash right after they were released last year, as the fabric surface showed scratches and stains very quickly. Due to this feedback, Apple took these cases out of its product range and introduced the TechWoven cases for the iPhone 17 Pro instead.
Testing the New Material
The experts at iFixit have evaluated how well this new material withstands liquids, dirt, and scratches. The first impressions are mostly good. Whether it’s coffee, olive oil, or hot sauce, alcohol successfully cleans off all residues. The case also passed an initial scratch test using a key without showing any damage.
Pros and Cons of the Coating
This better protection against liquids and scratches comes from the smooth and seemingly waterproof coating. However, there are two downsides to this design. Firstly, the coating does not go all the way to the edge of the back, which means that liquid can seep in and cause permanent stains where the fabric meets the plastic frame. Secondly, this coating can wear away over time.
iFixit intentionally damaged the coating with a knife during their tests, leaving behind permanent coffee stains on the case. Because these stains are mostly under the coating, cleaning the case afterward is not possible. iFixit thinks that TechWoven cases will last longer than Apple’s FineWoven cases, but the pricey $59 accessories also feel quite slippery due to the coating, and they still aren’t as strong as silicone cases.
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