Apple Cuts iPhone Air Production After Reports of Weak Demand
Apple is drastically cutting production orders for the ultra-slim iPhone Air. This move follows reports showing weaker-than-expected consumer demand. Analyst reports and early sales indicators suggest that the device is not taking off as Apple had hoped across global markets, including Southeast Asia.
According to multiple sources, including a report by Nikkei Asia, production orders for the iPhone Air are being reduced to nearly “end of production” levels. Starting in November, production is forecast to drop to less than 10 percent of the volume seen in September.
Consumers Prefer Pro Models
A key survey from KeyBanc Capital Markets confirms the sales slump. It found there is “virtually no demand for iPhone Air.” The report also noted limited consumer willingness to pay for a foldable device. In contrast, demand for the rest of the iPhone 17 lineup is robust. Buyers are showing a clear shift toward the higher-end iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max models.
For customers in Southeast Asia and elsewhere, the thinnest iPhone ever appears to sacrifice too much for its slim design. Many buyers prioritize features like enhanced camera systems and extended battery life. These are areas where the iPhone 17 Pro clearly leads the lineup. While the iPhone Air has the same 48-megapixel main camera as the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro, the battery life is a compromise of the slender frame. The phone has also remained available for immediate shipment on Apple’s website since its launch. This contrasts with the two-to-three-week shipping delays seen for the more popular iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro models.
Overall Lineup Sales Remain Strong
Despite the iPhone Air’s struggles, the overall iPhone 17 series is performing well. Strong demand for the base iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Pro Max is offsetting the weak Air sales. Apple is reportedly increasing production orders for these popular models. This allows the company to maintain its overall production forecast for the entire iPhone 17 family.
This situation echoes the struggles of rival manufacturers. For example, Samsung reportedly halted production of its Galaxy S25 Edge due to sluggish sales. The market appears to show that an ultra-thin design alone is not enough to sway mainstream buyers. Customers continue to value capability, performance, and endurance above all else.
 origin;Arstechnica
