The packaging for third-party accessories sold at Apple stores will soon look a lot more like those used for actual Apple products. (Brad Clinesmith)
The accessories department at Apple retail stores across the country are about to get a bit more matchy-matchy, as the retailer prepares to line its shelves with third-party accessories encased in packaging that looks suspiciously like those used for actual Apple products.
Starting next week, Apple stores will, according to 9to5Mac, limit available third-party accessories to those sold in packaging co-designed by Apple.
Tech21, Sena, Incase, Mophie, Logitech, and Life Proof that reportedly began working with Apple about six months ago to create the minimalist packaging, according to a notice sent to the company’s retail stores.
The goal of the new packaging – which is mostly white with simple fonts, new photography and consistent labeling – is to emulate Apple’s own packaging.
Apple says it will work with the companies to roll out the new packaging as stores reduce inventory of products that don’t utilize the new materials.
9to5Mac reports that the new encasements are just Apple’s latest move to control its retail ecosystem. The tech giant previously mandated that third-party accessory makers adhere to new environmental standards and rules regarding leaks of new products.
All Apple Stores revamping third-party accessory selection with Apple designed boxes [9to5Mac]
by Ashlee Kieler via Consumerist