Apple’s ultra-slim iPhone Air, once celebrated for its design, is experiencing an unforeseen setback. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports that production of the iPhone Air will be cut by nearly 80% as the device has not met Apple’s internal sales projections. This substantial reduction is expected to affect the first quarter of 2026, with several suppliers likely to stop manufacturing components entirely by the end of 2025. Kuo stated, “The failure of the iPhone Air to match sale expectations is the reason behind these changes.” Earlier, it was indicated that Apple would lower its iPhone Air production by around one million units.
However, a recent report from Nikkei Asia reveals that the company plans a more significant reduction in production for the ultra-slim model, reflecting serious concerns about its market performance. The iPhone Air was introduced alongside the iPhone 17 series, and while pre-orders for the flagship models surged, the Air did not achieve similar success. Although it saw a brief rise in popularity in the Chinese market after a delayed launch, global demand has remained lackluster. The iPhone Air’s appeal was primarily based on its sleek design, measuring just 5.6mm thick, making it Apple’s thinnest iPhone. However, its minimalist approach had drawbacks.
The device includes a single rear camera and mono speakers, which many users felt were insufficient given its premium price of ₹1,19,900 in India. Although Apple claimed the Air offered “all-day battery life,” consumer skepticism persisted. The decision to release a MagSafe battery case exclusively for the iPhone Air further raised questions about its battery performance. Kuo noted that the disappointing sales indicate that Apple’s Pro and base iPhone models sufficiently meet most high-end user needs, leaving limited space for experimental designs. He pointed out that recent variations — including the mini, Plus, and now the Air — have all struggled to gain significant market share. Looking ahead, Apple is not abandoning design innovation.
The company is reportedly working on a foldable iPhone, which may launch as early as 2026. Nonetheless, some industry experts suggest that the project might encounter delays as Apple refines the technology and market strategy. The decline of the iPhone Air underscores a broader challenge for Apple: identifying new product niches in an already crowded premium smartphone market. With high-end customers favoring the iPhone Pro line and mainstream users choosing standard models, Apple’s mid-range experiments continue to face significant challenges. However, if the anticipated foldable iPhone meets expectations, it could represent Apple’s next significant advancement in smartphone innovation — a breakthrough that might finally generate the excitement that the iPhone Air failed to maintain.