Is the iPhone Air a failure? Apple would sharply cut production after weak debut

He iPhone Air It gained widespread attention when it was unveiled in September, but that initial interest may not have translated into its marketing. New report from Nikkei Asia states that Apple has sharply reduced production of this model due to supposedly weak customer demand..

The above-mentioned media outlets indicate that although the iPhone Air had a very strong debut in China, the same was not recorded in other markets. This would force Cupertino residents to reorder their smartphone production priorities and focus on the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro, reflecting greater public interest.

It is currently unknown how many units of the iPhone Air were sold and how many Californians were eager to get into the market. It is true that, unlike other latest-generation iPhones, which have delivery delays ranging from 7-10 days to 2-3 weeks, depending on the model, the ultra-thin variant has stock for immediate delivery. Something that is repeated in the vast majority of Western markets where Apple is officially present with its online store.

Sources Nikkei Asia They claim that iPhone Air production has dropped to levels similar to those seen in devices that are about to be discontinued. Apple would advise its suppliers to reduce orders for individual components of the ultra-thin mobile phone. If this is true, the outlook for the future could be quite challenging. Of course, as we always say when it comes to unofficial information, it’s important to take everything with a grain of salt.

Apple would sharply cut iPhone Air production

According to Apple’s published estimates, the iPhone Air will account for 10 to 15% of total iPhone 17 production. But the story changed dramatically once its marketing began. The Cupertino company’s suppliers would appreciate that Starting in November, iPhone Air production will be just 10% of what it was in September..

The good news for Apple is that expected weak demand for the iPhone Air will be offset by increased interest in the iPhone 17. Cupertino officials will increase production of these models, allowing them to maintain their original forecast of 85 to 90 million units.

The biggest winner would be the base iPhone 17. This is because Apple would increase its production orders by about 5 million units. A fact that is not surprising, given that this model has received quite interesting improvements, such as the expected screen with ProMotion function (adaptive refresh rate 120 Hz).

Regardless of what happens to its sales, the iPhone Air is an interesting bet for those on the block. It’s true that the ultra-thin model has to make important design concessions. However, many consider this the most important test for development foldable iPhone.

The evolution of demand will likely determine whether the iPhone Air will be an annual update model. The absence of the number 17 in his name may indicate the latter, although it is too early to tell.

If Apple is indeed suffering from poor performance on its thin phone, it’s not the only one. Samsung would also have very poor sales of the Galaxy S25 Edge, to the point where there are already rumors of its successor being cancelled.