Buzz
Recently, there's a surge in the trend of using iPhones without protective cases to boast affluence, and it's gradually spreading across multiple countries.
Worldwide, there are various 'trend-riding' activities expressing wealth that the younger generation passionately embraces. The latest and somewhat 'absurd' trend gaining Gen Z's attention is using luxury smartphones without accompanying protective cases.
Billionaires like Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and rapper Jay-Z have long been seen with their smartphones exposed.According to Time magazine, a new trend is circulating to showcase wealth, unrelated to owning expensive clothing or accessories. Instead, users are conveying this message by not using protective cases for their iPhones, even though they may be more prone to damage than ever when dropped.
On social media, numerous discussions are taking place about this trend. Even billionaires like Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and rapper Jay-Z can be considered pioneers of this movement, as the media has frequently spotted them with their bare, unprotected smartphones.
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As per Time, the message is crystal clear: not using a phone case is not their concern, as they can afford a new phone if necessary. However, more importantly, it's about the message of 'silent wealth' they want to convey by not conforming to the popular trend.
The majority of users consider using a phone case and applying screen protectors essential.Currently, the selling price of an iPhone 14 Series ranges from 20 to 42 million VND in some units in Vietnam. Meanwhile, the global market predicts that the demand for phone cases will skyrocket to $35.81 billion in 2028, significantly higher than $21.6 billion in 2020.
Overall, an iPhone 14 Series phone comes with a relatively high price compared to the average income in some countries, such as Vietnam. Hence, the majority of users see using a phone case and applying screen protectors as crucial. These accessories play a significant role in protecting the phone's hardware, with a lower cost and help maintain a better resale value when selling old devices.
However, some argue that the aesthetic value of the product is more important than the risk of damage during usage. According to Thomai Serdari, Director of the Luxury Marketing program at New York University, not using a phone case is an expression of class and personal values. It reflects a preference for the design and appearance of the phone. According to him, if the device is beautifully designed, why hide it in a phone case?
Transparent phone cases can still effectively safeguard your phone while maintaining its sleek design.Melissa Cepeda, a 31-year-old accountant residing in Los Angeles, reveals she has cracked her phone multiple times but opts not to use a case or tempered glass. She explains, 'Purses are getting smaller, and my phone can't accommodate them. Bulky cases contradict the style I'm pursuing.'
Nowadays, some phone cases come with a wallet design on the back. However, affluent individuals often don't carry much cash, so they don't worry about this issue. However, most trend-following youth are the complete opposite. They like to flaunt wealth outwardly, but the reality inside may not be the same.
Explore more: Hands-on with Spigen's new case that can turn the iPhone 14 Pro Max into a 'transparent' version.Office workers, especially those in suits, may avoid using phone cases to prevent inconvenience. 'They always have to think about how to put the phone in which pocket and how to keep the phone slim without causing trouble,' she commented.
In general, only those who truly consider buying a multi-million-dollar phone a straightforward matter care about showcasing its entire design without a case. We should not relentlessly pursue things that might 'hurt our wallets' just to receive admiration from others. Additionally, transparent phone cases can still protect your phone while preserving their design.
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