Rumor: Phone Air Sales Are So Bad That Apple’s Delaying the Next-Generation Version

Apple has decided to delay the launch of the next-generation iPhone Air, which was initially scheduled to coincide with the iPhone 18 Pro, due to its poor sales performance, as reported by The Information.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Apple had initially planned to release the new iPhone Air in fall 2026, but this timeline has been adjusted.

Since the iPhone Air’s launch in September, reports have emerged of declining sales and manufacturing cuts. Consequently, Apple’s supply chain has reduced shipments and production. Notably, Apple supplier Foxconn has reportedly dismantled all but one and a half of its production lines for the iPhone Air, and all production is expected to cease at the end of the month. Additionally, Luxshare, another supplier, has also halted production at the end of October.

Apple had anticipated that the novel design of the device would generate interest, as it represents the first significant design update to the iPhone lineup since the iPhone X introduced Face ID and an all-display design in 2017. However, creating a remarkably thin 5.6mm iPhone necessitated compromises, resulting in a smaller battery and a single-lens rear camera. Despite these limitations, the iPhone Air maintains a high price tag, starting at $999. This pricing strategy appears to be more than customers are willing to pay for style without substantial features. Notably, the iPhone Air is only $100 cheaper than the $1,099 iPhone 17 Pro, which boasts a triple-lens rear camera and significantly improved battery life.

Apple has struggled to launch a fourth iPhone model that complements the standard and Pro iPhone models. Initially, they introduced a smaller 5.4-inch iPhone mini, which unfortunately failed to meet sales expectations. Subsequently, they launched the larger “Plus” iPhone, which served as a more affordable version of the Pro Max. However, even the Plus models didn’t perform well, leading Apple to develop the iPhone Air.

Apple has already been planning a split launch for the iPhone starting with the iPhone 18 models. The iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and foldable iPhone are scheduled for release in fall 2026, while the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e will be available until early 2027. It’s possible that the next-generation iPhone Air will be released alongside the iPhone 18 in the spring.

Apple has been working on a second-generation iPhone Air with improved features, including a lighter weight, vapor chamber cooling, and a larger battery capacity. However, Apple may reconsider the design of the iPhone Air.

About Post Author

CompuScoop Staff

See author's posts

Advertisement