Apple's $19 Polishing Cloth is a premium accessory that exemplifies the concept of brand premium, being a real product with a high price tag and back-ordered until 2022. The Polishing Cloth is part of a line of overpriced accessories from Apple, such as the $699 Mac Pro Wheels Kit, showing the company's tendency for dramatic markups on products.
Design and Functionality
The cloth is specifically designed for cleaning Apple displays and surfaces, especially the nano-texture matte panel on high-end monitors like the Apple Pro Display XDR. The microfiber cloth has a unique texture similar to Microsoft's Alcantara material, which makes it suitable for cleaning devices but may struggle with coated surfaces like eyeglasses. While the cloth works well for cleaning some devices like smartphones and computers, it may not be as effective on all surfaces and tends to drag against certain coatings.
Unboxing Experience
The Apple Polishing Cloth comes in a unique white box that unfolds like an envelope, showcasing the carefully folded teardrop-shaped cloth to prevent creases. This packaging emphasizes the high-end feel of the product. The cloth itself is light gray with an embossed Apple logo, adding to its premium look.
| Product | Price | Compatibility | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Polishing Cloth | $19 | All Apple products, including non-Apple devices like Pixel 6 | A soft, nonabrasive microfiber cloth designed to clean Apple displays and surfaces efficiently. |
| Amazon Basics Microfiber Cloth | Under $14 for a pack of 24 | Various devices and surfaces | Economical choice with multiple color options and effective in cleaning smudges on various surfaces. |
| Apple Pro Display XDR | $4,999 | High-end Apple monitors | Designed for professional use, offering unparalleled display quality and requiring specialized cleaning. |
| Mac Pro Wheels Kit | $699 | Mac Pro | Enhances the mobility of the Mac Pro with precision-designed wheels. |
Compatibility and Use
Apple specifies that the polishing cloth is compatible with all their products, including Apple devices starting from the first-generation iPhone SE and non-Apple devices like the Pixel 6. It measures 6.3 inches by 6.3 inches and is made from a soft, nonabrasive material believed to be microfiber. The cloth works efficiently in cleaning screens of various Apple devices like iPhones, MacBooks, iPads, and Apple Watches, effortlessly removing smudges even when they are stubborn.
Pricing and Alternatives
The utility of the Apple Polishing Cloth is limited considering its high price, as more affordable alternatives exist on the market. For example, the Amazon Basics microfiber cloth, which is priced under $14 and offers a pack of 24 cloths in blue, yellow, and white color options, is a practical and economical choice for users. Despite the popularity and effectiveness of the Apple Polishing Cloth, consumers have the option to choose from a range of cleaning cloth alternatives, depending on their preferences and budget constraints.
Future Speculations
There is speculation about Apple potentially releasing the cloth in different colors and possible multi-packs for 2022 as an evolution in the product line. Apple also suggests pairing the cloth with accessories like the Mac Pro Wheels Kit, Mac Pro Feet Kit, Pro Stand, and AirPods Pro for maintenance. Given the current backorder status up to 12 weeks, these future innovations could expand the product's appeal and availability even further.
For tech enthusiasts willing to spend on Apple-branded products, the Polishing Cloth may be worth it for the experience. However, for others, more cost-effective cleaning options are recommended, considering the high price and limited utility of the Apple Polishing Cloth.
