Apple Slashes iPhone Air Production by 80% Amid Weak Demand

Apple is drastically cutting production of its new iPhone Air. The company is reducing output by over 80 percent through early 2026. This move follows reports of “virtually no demand” for the device.

According to Nikkei Asia, the tech giant is shifting its focus. Production capacity is being reallocated to the upcoming iPhone 17 lineup. The decision signals a major strategic pullback.

Supply Chain Reacts to Plummeting Orders

Supply chain partners are scaling back shipments immediately. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo confirmed the deep cuts. Some components with long lead times are being discontinued entirely.

This production halt affects the entire manufacturing pipeline. It represents one of Apple’s most significant product adjustments in recent years. The scale of the reduction is unprecedented for a new iPhone model.

Broader Impact on Apple’s iPhone Strategy

The iPhone Air’s weak performance raises questions about Apple’s product segmentation. The company had positioned it as a premium, lightweight alternative. Consumers appear to have rejected this new category.

This development forces Apple to reconsider its future roadmap. Resources are now being redirected to the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro models. The company’s experiment with the “Air” branding for iPhones has seemingly failed.

The dramatic production cut for the iPhone Air highlights the risks of innovation in a saturated smartphone market. This strategic retreat allows Apple to consolidate resources for its core iPhone lineup and refocus on proven winners.

Info at your fingertips

Is the iPhone Air being discontinued completely?

Apple has not officially announced a full discontinuation. However, production cuts of this magnitude suggest the model may not have a long-term future in the lineup.

Can I still buy an iPhone Air right now?

Existing inventory remains available through various retailers. Supplies are expected to dwindle rapidly with no new units being manufactured.

What does this mean for iPhone Air owners?

Current owners should not be concerned about support. Apple typically provides software updates and service for many years after a product’s discontinuation.

How does this affect Apple’s stock?

Major financial analysts are monitoring the situation. A single model’s failure is unlikely to significantly impact Apple’s overall financial health given its diverse product portfolio.

Will there be a replacement for the iPhone Air?

Apple’s focus has shifted to the iPhone 17 series. The company may abandon the “Air” naming convention for iPhones entirely after this experience.

Trusted Sources

Nikkei Asia, Ming-Chi Kuo, Reuters