iPhone Air Already Losing Altitude: Analyst Says Apple Is Slashing Output

Apple's ultra-thin iPhone Air isn't connecting with buyers, according to renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The company is reportedly cutting production capacity by more than 80% by early 2026, with some parts being discontinued as soon as late 2025.

The message is clear: the slim new model isn't creating its own market niche, much like the discontinued iPhone mini and underperforming iPhone 14 Plus before it.

What's Happening

Kuo reports that demand for the iPhone Air has fallen short of expectations, leading Apple's suppliers to dramatically scale back production. Most manufacturers will reduce their capacity by over 80% by the first quarter of 2026. Some specialized components with longer manufacturing timelines may stop production by the end of this year.

This aggressive pullback suggests the iPhone Air hasn't found its audience.

Apple launched the iPhone Air last month alongside the iPhone 17 series, marketing it as the thinnest iPhone ever made. Positioned between the standard iPhone 17 and the Pro models, it features a titanium frame, the latest iOS 26, A19-series performance, and a 120Hz display.

In India, the iPhone Air starts at ₹1,19,900 for the 256GB model—firmly in premium territory.

While Kuo earlier suggested the Air might appeal more when customers see it in person, today's production cuts indicate that wasn't enough to drive sales.

A Familiar Pattern

This isn't Apple's first attempt to carve out a new iPhone category. The iPhone 12 mini earned praise for its compact design but sold poorly. The larger iPhone 14 Plus also underperformed compared to Pro models.

The iPhone Air now joins that list: a well-designed phone that most premium buyers are passing over in favor of the standard iPhone 17 or iPhone 17 Pro.

What This Means for Indian Buyers

Limited availability ahead: With production scaling back, expect fewer color and storage options in stores over time. Some configurations may become hard to find.

Price dynamics: Two scenarios are likely—either discounts to clear existing stock, or tight supply on popular models. Apple India has been running promotional offers across its lineup, so watch for deals.

Value comparison: At ₹1,19,900, the iPhone Air overlaps with iPhone 17 Pro prices during bank-offer sales. If you prioritize camera quality and battery life over thinness, the Pro or even a well-configured standard iPhone 17 may be better choices.

Resale value: Phones with shorter production runs sometimes lose resale value faster than mainstream models—a pattern seen with the mini and Plus variants.

Apple often adjusts production based on demand, but an 80%+ capacity cut combined with parts discontinuation by late 2025 signals more than routine adjustment—it looks like a strategic step back.

If you love the ultra-thin design and find a good deal with bank or EMI offers, consider buying soon—don't count on wide availability six months from now. But if you want the best camera and battery life, the iPhone 17 Pro or standard iPhone 17 will likely serve most buyers better and hold their value longer.