Apple uses store shelves to control iPhone designs leaks


In recent years every new iPhone design has been preceded by case designs thought to fit the new phones. The designs are usually based on leaked specs or parts within Apple's supply chain. To try and fix this apparent problem Apple, apparently, is attempting to address the demand case info rather than addressing the leaks.

Via 9 to 5 Mac

...should Apple find that, prior to the release of a product, you have sought, obtained, or relied upon specifications of that product from sources other than Apple, Apple may choose to exercise its right to take action against you, which penalties can include, but are not limited to, Apple choosing not to stock your product in our stores."

So, if an accessory maker doesn't play ball, they risk being banned from Apple retail store. Reportedly even if they do agree, however, they're not guaranteed to be in stores regardless. Meanwhile, competitors get a jump on production and have cases available to sell at launch. Obviously the demand for cases spike when people buy new phones at launch, so waiting months to release with official specs can be a disadvantage.

Apple's supply chain has gotten so big it would seem to be impossible to be airtight. I wonder though if this is really a problem?