# The Most Controversial Apple Products Retired in 2024
Apple’s 2024 range of products was among its most ambitious, with almost 30 new devices launching. Yet, amid this wave of innovation, Apple also phased out several older products that had ignited debate and controversy throughout their existence. Ranging from faulty accessories to disappointing flagship devices, these discontinued items remind us that even Apple, a company celebrated for its design and engineering skills, can encounter setbacks.
Here’s an overview of the most contentious Apple products that were retired in 2024.
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## **1. FineWoven Cases: An Experiment That Didn’t Last Long**
The FineWoven cases from Apple were launched as an eco-friendly substitute for leather cases, in line with the company’s environmental objectives. Nonetheless, the response was far from favorable. Users criticized the FineWoven material for being fragile, prone to scratches, and possessing an overall inferior quality, particularly given its high price.
The criticism was rapid, leading Apple to discreetly withdraw the FineWoven iPhone cases from the market. While FineWoven wallets and Apple Watch bands are still for sale, the rebranding of these items indicates Apple is attempting to dissociate itself from the backlash. Regrettably, Apple has not yet provided a convincing substitute for its cherished leather cases, leaving many clients feeling let down. Meanwhile, its subsidiary Beats launched a plastic case for the iPhone 16, which, although functional, did not replicate the premium feel of the leather options.
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## **2. AirPods Max (Lightning): A High-End Headphone with Ongoing Issues**
Upon their debut in 2020, the AirPods Max were celebrated for their superb sound quality, high-end construction, and seamless compatibility with Apple’s ecosystem. However, over the years, their design flaws became apparent. The headphones were cumbersome, the Smart Case faced widespread derision for its impractical design, and they lacked features such as Lossless audio support, strong Find My functions, and a proper wired audio experience.
Despite these drawbacks, Apple never offered a genuine second-generation version of AirPods Max. Instead, the company released a USB-C variant in 2024, which brought few enhancements aside from a new charging port. This decision was seen as a missed chance to remedy the product’s persistent problems. With the Lightning model now retired, the AirPods Max continue to be a divisive product—technically impressive yet flawed in practice.
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## **3. iPhone 15 Pro: Apple’s Pinnacle and Pitfall**
The iPhone 15 Pro was promoted as Apple’s most sophisticated smartphone to date, featuring a titanium chassis, the new A17 Pro chip, and USB-C connectivity. However, it rapidly became one of the most debated iPhones in recent history.
A significant source of dissatisfaction was the disparity between the iPhone 15 Pro and its larger counterpart, the iPhone 15 Pro Max. The Pro Max included a periscope-style telephoto lens for enhanced zoom functionality, making the smaller Pro model feel lacking. Moreover, users experienced notable battery life challenges, with the A17 Pro chip often cited for overheating and inefficiency.
While the iPhone 15 Pro was undoubtedly powerful, these shortcomings marred its image. For many, it epitomized a regression in Apple’s quest for excellence.
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## **Insights Gained from Apple’s Controversial Withdrawals**
Apple’s choice to discontinue these items underscores the company’s readiness to adapt in the face of criticism. However, it also highlights the difficulties of balancing innovation with consumer expectations. The FineWoven cases, AirPods Max, and iPhone 15 Pro endured a mix of high hopes and execution errors, leading to user dissatisfaction.
As Apple progresses, it must acknowledge the lessons learned from these controversies. Whether it be ensuring durability in eco-friendly materials, providing substantial upgrades to high-end products, or maintaining feature equivalency across device lines, Apple has a chance to transform these setbacks into significant learning opportunities.
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## **What’s Next for Apple?**
With around 30 new products introduced in 2024, Apple appears to be accelerating its pace. Nonetheless, the controversies linked to its phased-out items serve as a reminder that even the most valuable company in the world can falter. As Apple forges ahead with innovation, customers will be closely observing how the company rectifies past criticisms and fulfills future commitments.
Ultimately, Apple’s capacity to learn from its errors will decide whether its next generation of products can genuinely uphold the brand’s legendary reputation.
