iPhone 12/Pro/Pro Max Leather case patina not developing compared to previous leather cases

Yep. Same old story. They clearly cheaped out and painted garbage quality leather with inferior paint that fades and peels as opposed to burnishing and weathering over time. Wish others would complain. It’s a piece of garbage.

the leather is the same. They just put too much coating on the case to protect is. Just like those on car leather seats. That’s why the case looks nasty.

They actually put a lot of coating on the back of the case that’s why the case doesn’t age like it used to

Yup, I’m finding the same as well for me. Ive had the red iPhone 12 mini case for about a month with no signs of any patina. I’ve tried leaving it out in the sun for multiple days and still nothing. Taking a closer look, I can see the leather does seem genuine as I can see striations on my case.

Not really a direct comparison, but I have a wallet made of Red Japanese tochigi veg tan that got darker as I left it out in the sun. Ultimately, developing a nice dark patina after two years of wear.

Im guessing only time will tell. The case doesn’t feel as “waxy” as the first day so maybe I’ve worn through whatever “protective layer” they’ve used.

this is my saddle brown case. I basically experimented with this case as I have purchased the nomad rugged case.

i used a little sand paper and coconut oil along with leather conditioner. Will shall see how it looks in a few days once it settles.

I’m happy with the way it feels. It is more grippy than a brand new case and, because I only rubbed in a very small amount of balm, it is not “greasy” at all. I think you’re right about the coating on the new cases; Apple made them with more coating due to MagSafe. Good luck with your case.

I have the same issue, I got the California poppy last February, I only carry the phone in my bag or my pocket, standing in my desk most of the time or in my hands and both back and front edges have completely worn off leaving a brownish color underneath.

there’s not patina at all... very disappointed on the quality, the price is quite high for this product :/

I take care of my four kids three goldfish and a pet bird. I absolutely do not need to “take care“ of my iPhone case. Again, No disrespect to you Khuongg Dangg you’ve been very helpful. It’s just that it’s not the same quality leather, they cheaped out this time. There’s no question about it

Yes to remove the protective coating and speed up the ageing process. To be honest gives a better distressed look rather that seeing paint peeling off from the sides. Oh Do you think they care? Even if I was lucky enough to get replacement it will be the same piece of crap cheep painted on leather- No thank you.

I’ve had the black 12 mini case for about two months and this thing is really low quality. I bought it because of the rave reviews on the previous models. This case isn’t even soft, after wearing it down a bit, I don’t even want to look at it or touch it like I would good worn leather. The plastic-like edges are even worse. This is like Jordan brand leather. I’m going to look into other brands. Luckily the black one was $24 on sale instead of $60.00. It feels like it’s worth about $10.00. Apple should address this.

Unbelievable. I just purchased the iPhone 13 Pro and I’m hating giving them business when they downgrade accessories from a quality standpoint. To be politically correct The leather case is no longer a supple tanned coach like rich tan hide and is below par and unacceptable from a customer user experience… or in plain and simple English … it’s a piece of plastic painted garbage and sucks!

When will Apple address this!

I have never seen that happen before! How long have you had the case? I think I would return that one to the Apple store and ask for a replacement.

Dumb idea to do it yourself. Call Apple care say the issue they will give you a new one lol sandpaper 🤣🤣🤣

If anyone wanted a 9 month update; it becomes much more apparent it’s cheaply coated.

It's wearing a bit, but nothing like the older, saddle brown version. It almost appears to be more dirty than have a patina. It just doesn't have the softness, texture or wear the previous models did.