Apple Reportedly Cancels iPhone Air 2, Casting Doubt on Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Edge

Apple has reportedly canceled its next ultra-thin iPhone. The tech giant has taken the iPhone Air 2 off its development schedule for next year. This follows disappointing sales of the first model.

The decision signals a major shift in strategy for the smartphone market. According to a report from The Information, Apple notified engineers and suppliers of the change. This move directly mirrors a similar situation at Samsung with its own slim flagship.

Manufacturing Partners Already Winding Down Production

Apple’s manufacturing partners are already halting production. Foxconn is expected to end assembly of the current iPhone Air by next month. Luxshare, a second supplier, reportedly ceased production last month.

The initial iPhone Air failed to meet sales expectations. Both Apple and Samsung appear to have overestimated consumer demand for ultra-thin devices. The high cost and potential compromises on battery life may have deterred buyers.

What Apple’s Decision Means for the Entire Industry

Apple’s retreat creates significant uncertainty for Samsung’s competing product. Samsung was reportedly developing the Galaxy S26 Edge as a direct rival. The South Korean firm may now shelve its own ultra-thin phone plans.

This development suggests the market for premium, ultra-slim phones is limited. Companies are likely to refocus on features with broader consumer appeal. Larger batteries and more durable designs may take priority over thinness.

The apparent cancellation of the iPhone Air 2 is a major blow to the ultra-thin phone segment. This decision likely seals the fate of Samsung’s rival project. The era of competing ultra-thin flagships may be over before it truly began.

Thought you’d like to know

Why are Apple and Samsung canceling their ultra-thin phones?

Sales of the first-generation models were significantly lower than expected. Both companies appear to believe the market for expensive, ultra-slim devices is too niche to justify continued development.

Has the iPhone Air 2 been officially canceled?

Reports indicate it has been removed from next year’s schedule. Apple has not provided a new release date, effectively halting development for the foreseeable future.

What will happen to the current iPhone Air?

Production is being phased out. Manufacturing is expected to stop completely within the next month as remaining inventory is sold.

What does this mean for the future of slim phones?

The focus will likely shift back to balancing design with practical features. Future phones may prioritize battery capacity and cooling systems over extreme thinness.

Will Samsung still release a Galaxy S26 Edge?

It is now highly unlikely. Samsung was watching Apple’s moves closely and will probably cancel its own model following this news.