Apple has faced a lot of criticism for the FineWoven case it launched with the iPhone 15. From the outset, Apple's new leather alternative had a reputation for being scratchy and not meeting the "premium" description generally expected of a $59 case, so much so that Amazon added a disclaimer to the FineWoven case, stating, "The FineWoven case is not a premium product.

If you look at the FineWoven case for the iPhone 15 on Amazon, you may see a yellow warning box below the description. This is a "Frequently Returned Item" and urges users to check customer reviews for more information.

Checking the reviews further down, Amazon highlights that there are three points that customers often point out

mixed comments about its appearance, and

The general review score is 3.6, of which 49% are 5-star reviews while 22% are 1-star. These poor reviews seem to point out how users dislike the texture, poor build quality, and the ability of the case to pick up scratches like a magnet picks up metal.

9to5Mac claims that some third-party iPhone 15 cases have the opposite label, noting that customers "usually keep this item." We went to check out the best iPhone 15 case for ourselves and this did not happen, so we will just have to take 9to5Mac's word for it.

FineWoven material is Apple's sustainable alternative to the leather accessories found in previous products. While these leather cases can still be found at third-party retailers, Apple seems to have withdrawn them all from its online store. It is clear that Apple is taking this issue seriously, as FineWoven accessories appear at the top of search results when searching for "leather.

FineWoven's materials consist of 68% "post-consumer recycled content," so Apple can be commended for its commitment to using more sustainable products. However, it definitely seems to have failed when it comes to the quality of FineWoven's accessories.

Tom's Guide UK editor-in-chief Jeff Parsons tested the iPhone 15 Pro FineWoven case himself last year; after a week, it had multiple scratches, scuffs, and other marks from his daily use of switching the phone between his pocket and desk

This was a very difficult case to test.

This was enough to make Jeff wonder what the case would look like after several years of use or after accidentally dropping it. However, it is worth noting that he also really likes the design of the FineWoven case, as it fits perfectly with the iPhone 15 Pro design and provides tactile feedback from the action buttons.

Whether you decide to purchase the FineWoven case for the iPhone 15 is up to you. Many people seem to like it, but there are plenty of people who really don't like it. If you're on the fence, be sure to check out our list of the best iPhone 15 cases.