Touted as a bold step forward in design, the ultra-slim iPhone Air was expected to reinvigorate the iPhone lineup after years of minimal aesthetic evolution.

Instead, it has turned into one of Apple’s most significant commercial missteps.

Since its debut in September, the iPhone Air has struggled with sluggish demand, prompting production partners to scale back operations.

Foxconn has dismantled nearly its entire production line, leaving only minimal output expected to continue through the end of this month.

Meanwhile, Luxshare reportedly ceased production entirely in late October.

In pursuit of a sleek form factor, Apple compromised key features: the iPhone Air only has a single rear camera and a smaller battery.

Despite these cuts, it carries a premium price tag of $999 - just $100 less than the iPhone 17 Pro, which offers a triple-camera system and significantly longer battery life.

The pricing and stripped-down experience failed to resonate with consumers.

Analysts say the iPhone Air reflects Apple’s continued struggle with its “middle child” strategy.

Past efforts like the iPhone mini (5.4-inch) and iPhone Plus also faltered due to a lack of distinct value compared to flagship or entry-level models.

Rumors now suggest that Apple may split the launch schedule for the iPhone 18 series.

While the iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and the highly anticipated foldable iPhone are still expected in fall 2026, the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e might be pushed to early 2027.

If not cancelled outright, the new iPhone Air may be repositioned and reintroduced with this group.

Apple had reportedly begun work on a second-generation iPhone Air featuring improved battery life, lighter design, and vapor chamber cooling.

However, after this commercial flop, the device may require a complete redesign.

Initially envisioned as the spiritual successor to the groundbreaking iPhone X of 2017, the iPhone Air has instead struggled with a high price tag and underwhelming performance, leading many customers to turn away.

As production winds down, Apple is now facing a critical question: should it continue to bet on the iPhone Air, or refocus entirely on the Pro series and foldable models - the true pillars of its future?

Du Lam