Trending in China: Python or Dragon? Apple's 'Year of Dragon' iPhone Case Design Stirs Up Controversy
The ¥498 ($70) 'Year of Dragon' OtterBox Lumen Series iPhone 15 Case on Apple's website has triggered a backlash. Netizens point out that Apple's dragon has only four claws on each foot, whereas traditional Chinese dragons are depicted with five claws.
The five-clawed dragon has been an official imperial symbol since the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD). The claws are symbolic the emperor's power over the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. Everyone outside of royalty could only use pythons with four or three claws in their decorations.
A four-clawed ‘dragon’ is actually considered a python or a large snake, which is not considered an auspicious image in Chinese tradition. Many netizens criticized Apple on Weibo for ignoring Chinese tradition and culture. The topic ‘iPhone case dragon is actually a python’ (#苹果龙年手机壳被吐槽指蟒为龙#) trended on Weibo, with over 140 million views and 130,000 engagements.
In response, Apple stated that the official description of the phone case highlights the dragon's courageous spirit through vibrant colours. There was no mention of whether the design represents a ‘python’ or a ‘dragon,’ and Apple simply suggested conforming to the information provided on its official website as accurate.
Apple’s Chinese New Year communications are normally highlights amongst the slew of Spring Festival advertising, but this year’s backlash illustrates how important it is to check even the finest details for anything representing Chinese cultural elements. It is a sensitive area, particularly for foreign brands.
