Apple’s iPhone Air Experiment Falters as Production Faces Drastic Cuts

Apple’s highly anticipated iPhone Air is facing a major setback. The company is slashing production due to significantly weaker-than-expected consumer demand. This news comes from multiple industry analysts and supply chain reports.

According to Nikkei Asia, Apple is cutting production nearly to “end-of-production levels.” This indicates a serious miscalculation in market demand for the new, ultra-thin device.

Supply Chain Confirms Massive Production Scale-Back

KeyBanc Capital Markets reported there is “virtually no demand” for the iPhone Air. This lack of consumer interest forced Apple’s hand. The company is now drastically reducing its manufacturing orders.

Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo provided specific figures. He stated suppliers will reduce capacity by over 80% through early 2026. Some components with longer lead times will be discontinued by the end of this year. This confirms the severity of the situation.

Broader Market Implications for Thin-Form Factor Phones

The iPhone Air’s poor performance suggests a limited market for super-thin phones. Samsung is seeing a similar response to its rival Galaxy S25 Edge model. Reports indicate Samsung canceled its next-generation device after disappointing sales.

Kuo’s analysis suggests the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro already satisfy most high-end user needs. This leaves little room for new market segments. All other new iPhone models are reportedly selling better than expected, with Apple increasing their production.

The future of the iPhone Air line now appears uncertain as Apple shifts its focus back to its core models. This sales slump represents a rare misstep for the tech giant’s product strategy.

Thought you’d like to know-

Why is Apple cutting iPhone Air production?

Apple is cutting production due to much lower sales than anticipated. Multiple reports confirm weak consumer demand for the ultra-thin model. The company is reallocating resources to more popular devices.

How much is production being reduced?

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says suppliers will cut capacity by over 80%. This reduction will continue through the first quarter of 2026. Some components will be completely discontinued by year’s end.

Are other iPhone models affected by this?

No, other iPhone models are reportedly selling better than expected. Apple is actually increasing production for these devices. The issue appears isolated to the iPhone Air specifically.

What does this mean for the future of the iPhone Air?

Apple had planned three more iPhone Air generations. These plans may now change based on real sales data. The company could pivot to a different form factor instead.

Is Samsung having similar problems?

Yes, Samsung is reportedly seeing weak demand for its Galaxy S25 Edge. The company has apparently canceled its next-generation model. This suggests a broader market trend against ultra-thin phones.

Trusted Sources

Nikkei Asia, Ming-Chi Kuo, KeyBanc Capital Markets, Mizuho Securities