iPhone 17 Pro Case Line Set to Launch New Leather Substitute After Problems with FineWoven Material

### Apple’s New Leather Substitute for iPhone 17 Cases

Apple has embarked on a mission to transform its product materials, especially in the area of accessories such as iPhone cases and Apple Watch bands. After ceasing leather products to champion eco-friendliness and aim for carbon neutrality by 2030, the company launched FineWoven as an alternative. However, feedback from users suggested that FineWoven fell short of expectations, notably in durability and appearance.

#### The Transition from Leather to FineWoven

Apple’s move away from leather was part of a larger effort to boost sustainability. FineWoven was designed to offer a premium feel while being environmentally conscious. Unfortunately, numerous users noted that the material did not maintain its integrity over time, resulting in a less desirable look after frequent use. Consequently, Apple has reevaluated its material strategy for accessories.

#### A New Man-Made Fabric

As per insider Majin Bu, Apple is set to unveil a new synthetic material for the iPhone 17 case collection. This fabric is said to have a more technical look, departing from the luxury aesthetic linked to FineWoven. The upcoming material is anticipated to feature a “visible textile texture” and will be released in a range of colors, including green, orange, blue, and purple.

One significant benefit of this new synthetic fabric is its expected longevity, which aims to remedy the downsides of FineWoven while still aligning with Apple’s sustainability goals.

#### Additional Features and Innovations

Alongside the new fabric, there are indications that Apple might include an integrated lanyard loop in the silicone cases, though it remains unclear if this feature will be available in the synthetic material versions. Moreover, there are talks of “Liquid Glass cases,” which are expected to provide an eye-catching look along with durability, likely attracting users in search of more visually appealing designs.

#### Conclusion

As Apple gears up for the highly anticipated announcement of the iPhone 17, expected around September 9, the launch of these new materials could signal a major change in the company’s accessory offerings. The emphasis on sustainability, coupled with enhanced durability and aesthetics, may resonate positively with consumers seeking both style and practicality in their smartphone accessories. For those keen on the latest updates, more information can be found in Majin Bu’s complete post.

Assessing the Efficiency of the Camera Control Button on the iPhone: An Analysis of Survey Results

### The Destiny of the Camera Control Button in Upcoming iPhones

Recent conversations regarding the forthcoming iPhone 18 have highlighted a feature that was introduced with the iPhone 16 Pro models: the Camera Control button. An account of dubious credibility has reported that Apple might remove this feature due to its low usage rates. Although the assertion lacks solid proof, it poses a significant question about the functional usefulness of the Camera Control button.

#### Launch of the Camera Control Button

The Camera Control button debuted alongside the iPhone 16 Pro models, with Apple marketing it as a major upgrade for photography fans. This hardware feature was meant to offer users more tactile means for managing camera operations, particularly in terms of zooming and focusing. A lot of users, myself included, embraced this feature’s introduction, hoping it would enrich the overall photography experience.

#### User Experience and Functionality

In spite of the initial enthusiasm, numerous users have discovered that the Camera Control button is less intuitive than they had anticipated. In real-world use, it has turned out to be somewhat cumbersome, especially when trying to utilize the slider functionality for smooth zoom while recording video. Users expected enhancements through software updates, but Apple appears to have overlooked this feature since its introduction.

Personally, I have found the Camera Control button’s most useful application to be the quick access to the camera app by double-tapping it. However, the slider feature remains largely absent from my everyday photography routine. Anecdotal observations imply that I am not alone in this view; many iPhone 16 Pro users I am acquainted with have not incorporated the Camera Control button into their photography practices.

#### Consequences for Future Models

Considering the evident lack of interest in the Camera Control button, the speculation regarding its elimination in the iPhone 18 might carry some validity. If a feature is not being effectively utilized, it raises concerns about its future existence in subsequent models of the device. While Apple frequently emphasizes innovation, it also considers user feedback and usage trends.

#### Conclusion

As we anticipate the iPhone 18’s release, the fate of the Camera Control button remains ambiguous. Although it was launched with great excitement, its functional application has not struck a chord with many users. The possible removal of this feature could indicate a change in Apple’s strategy toward hardware controls, shifting the focus to more user-friendly and commonly adopted functionalities. For iPhone 16 Pro owners, sharing feedback and experiences may yield valuable insights regarding the future of this feature.

Apple Reaches Sustained Goal of Decreasing Reliance on China

**Apple’s Transition in iPhone Manufacturing: A Move Towards India**

A recent report reveals that Apple is on the brink of reaching a crucial milestone in its long-term plan to lessen its dependence on China for iPhone manufacturing. With the impending release of the iPhone 17, the company is preparing to boost its production capabilities in India, signifying a crucial change in its global supply chain.

**Apple’s Long-Term Vision**

Traditionally, the bulk of iPhones have been manufactured in China. Nevertheless, Apple has been diligently pursuing a diversification of its manufacturing sites, with India rising as its secondary center. The company aims to ramp up production in India to 50% over the next few years. A vital component of this plan is to align the launch of new iPhone models in both India and China. Although Apple intended to achieve this with the iPhone 16, production in India commenced a few weeks later than in China.

The imposition of U.S. import tariffs on Chinese products has further encouraged Apple to hasten its initiatives. Reports indicate that concurrent production of the iPhone 17 range in both nations will finally happen.

**Bloomberg Reports Success of the Objective**

As per a recent Bloomberg report, Apple has successfully begun production of all four iPhone 17 models in India, with shipments to the U.S. commencing from day one. This signifies a historic occasion as it marks the first time all new iPhone variants, including the pro models, will be manufactured in India from the beginning.

The enhancement of manufacturing capabilities has been supported by the establishment of two additional iPhone production facilities in India, raising the total to five. This swift advancement is remarkable; in 2021, 99% of global iPhone output occurred in China, but that proportion fell to 81% last year, with anticipations of reaching 50% by around 2027.

Despite encountering obstacles, including tariffs introduced during the Trump era, Apple was able to navigate these challenges. The company’s dedication to U.S. manufacturing and effective public relations strategies contributed to securing exemptions from certain tariffs.

**Conclusion**

Apple’s strategic shift towards amplifying iPhone manufacturing in India signifies a crucial advancement in its aspirations to diversify its supply chain and lessen reliance on China. With the forthcoming launch of the iPhone 17, the company is poised to realize a landmark goal that could transform its manufacturing landscape for years ahead.

Substack Unveils In-App Purchase Subscription Feature, Yet Exercise Caution

**Substack Launches In-App Payment Feature: A Two-Edged Sword for Creators and Subscribers**

The independent content platform Substack has recently rolled out a functionality that allows users to subscribe to newsletters, podcasts, and video channels via in-app purchases on its iOS application. This initiative is designed to streamline the subscription experience, enhancing accessibility for users. Nonetheless, there are critical factors that potential subscribers need to consider before choosing this approach.

### The Emergence of Subscriber-Funded Newsletters

In recent times, there has been a marked surge in the appeal of subscriber-funded independent newsletters, with Ben Thompson’s *Stratechery* leading the way as one of the early triumphs in this domain. Substack was created to support the business aspects of content creation, allowing independent creators to concentrate on delivering high-quality content without the hassle of administering subscriptions and payments. At present, the platform claims over a million subscriptions, highlighting its expanding impact within the digital content arena.

### The Effects of Legal Developments

The rollout of in-app purchases follows a legal decision from the Epic Games lawsuit, which mandated Apple to allow links to other payment systems. Substack embraced this modification, as it offered creators enhanced flexibility in managing their subscriptions. However, the recent choice to endorse in-app purchases has sparked worries regarding the financial ramifications for both creators and subscribers.

### The Price of Ease

Although the in-app purchase alternative simplifies the subscription experience—enabling users to finalize their sign-up with just a few taps—it comes at an elevated cost. Substack has affirmed that it will guarantee creators receive the same net payment despite Apple’s commission, implying that subscribers may face higher prices for in-app subscriptions. While creators can choose to accept a smaller share to keep the subscription prices steady, this strategy ultimately compromises their earnings.

### A Warning for Subscribers

For prospective subscribers, it is crucial to evaluate the convenience of in-app purchases against the potential financial repercussions. While the simplified sign-up process through the app is tempting, utilizing external payment methods may prove to be more economical in the long run. Subscribers are advised to take these elements into account before making a choice, as selecting in-app purchases might result in greater costs without added advantages.

### Conclusion

Substack’s introduction of in-app purchases signifies a notable transformation in the way users can subscribe to content on the platform. While it improves the user experience by alleviating friction in the sign-up procedure, the related expenses raise significant questions about the viability of this model for creators. As the realm of independent content continues to develop, both creators and subscribers must carefully navigate these transitions to protect their interests.