In the run up to a high profile presentation scheduled for September 12, the luxury fashion house Hermes has removed all Apple Watch bands from its official site. This move did not go unnoticed by editors at the tech publication 9To5Mac, who flagged the removal as a potential signal in the broader Apple accessories strategy. The industry is watching closely as rumors persist that Apple intends to stop using leather in its product line entirely, a shift that would realign accessory partnerships for devices across the ecosystem.
Analysts and journalists have suggested that Hermes might be signaling a broader renegotiation of leather partnerships rather than a complete severing of ties with Apple. Observers note that Apple could be steering its accessory portfolio toward fabric and non-leather materials, aiming for a more inclusive, durable, and color-rich range that aligns with contemporary consumer preferences for lightweight, breathable options. The narrative around leather accessories being phased out has gained traction as Apple prepares to refresh its lineup.
As part of this evolving accessory strategy, Apple is expected to phase out branded leather cases for the iPhone 15. The replacement is anticipated to be a new line featuring FineWoven fabric accessories, presented in a palette of ten colors: black, mulberry, taupe, evergreen, Pacific blue, wister, antique white, butter yellow, orange, and pink. This shift mirrors a broader industry trend toward fabric and mixed-material finishes that emphasize versatility and everyday usability for a wide range of users.
Industry observers note a curious tidbit: while Hermes has stopped offering leather straps, consumers can still purchase leather alternatives from Apple’s own website, suggesting the brand is balancing its partner ecosystem while consolidating core accessory products under its own channels. Reports indicate that Apple has implemented a generous employee incentive program, with a substantial discount on premium Apple Watch accessories, reflecting internal confidence in the redesigned lineup and its appeal to staff as brand ambassadors.
The prevailing rumor landscape also forecasts the introduction of a new Apple Watch model, tentatively named Series 9, to be unveiled on September 12 alongside the iPhone 15 family. The timing would align with Apple’s established cadence for major hardware releases each fall, typically accompanied by strategic accessory showcases and ecosystem integrations that underscore the company’s ongoing push toward cohesive device ecosystems and durable, fashion-conscious wearables.
From a broader viewpoint, the conversation surrounding the iPhone 15 and the associated accessories remains focused on material innovation, color variety, and durability. The shift toward FineWoven fabrics is framed as part of Apple’s long-term product strategy to offer more sustainable, versatile, and accessible choices for customers who want premium design without relying on traditional leather. In this context, Hermes’s recent actions are interpreted by some as an indicator of impending changes that could ripple through the entire accessory market, including retailer partnerships and design collaborations. Attribution: industry coverage by 9To5Mac and subsequent market analysis from technology newsroom contributors.