Apple has stopped selling its ultra-expensive Hermès AirTag just about a month after launch. While the reasoning behind this decision remains unclear, it’s possible it has to do with the included leather accessory falling apart on some users.
AirTag is one of the newest gadgets to enter the Apple family, and in typical Apple fashion, it’s one of the more expensive products in the Bluetooth tracking niche. While AirTag itself is relatively affordable at just $29, it doesn’t come with a built-in way to attach AirTag to a keyring, backpack, or suitcase. To do that, customers need to buy a separate case/holder that ranges anywhere from $13 up to $35. While it’s certainly annoying, it’s nowhere near as expensive as the Hermès AirTag models that are also available. These include a custom Hermès AirTag and a leather case, with Apple selling them between $299 and $449.
Seemingly out of nowhere, however, these Hermès AirTags are now no longer available for purchase. Selecting any of the three available models on Apple’s website now shows them as ‘Currently Unavailable’ with no estimated return date. This is the case for the Hermès Key Ring, Hermè Luggage Tag, and Hermès Bag Charm.
Hermès AirTags Might Have A Quality Control Issue
While Apple itself hasn’t provided a reason for why it’s halted sales of the Hermès AirTag, there’s evidence that the included leather accessory is poorly designed. One 9to5Mac reader reached out to the publication with photos of their Hermès Key Ring, showing that the metal hook for the strap separated from its base. The reader says that this happened when pulling the AirTag out of their pocket. After taking the broken accessory to an Apple Store, they were told that there weren’t any replacements available.
It’s possible Apple temporarily halted sales of the Hermès AirTag after discovering a design flaw, but on the other hand, it’s just as likely this could also be a completely separate incident. Apple likely didn’t produce a lot of inventory for the Hermès AirTag given its high price, meaning it wouldn’t be very surprising if the initial batch has simply sold out.
For anyone with a Hermès AirTag and is worried about it falling apart, it’s not a bad idea to treat it with extra care until Apple gets more in stock and explains what’s going on. If there is a quality issue, Apple will likely address it in the near future and provide options for people that already bought the Hermès AirTag. If this is nothing more than the luxury gadget selling out, more should be available soon. Right now, it’s just a matter of waiting to see what happens from here.
