Apple Scales Back iPhone Air Production Amidst Stronger Demand for Other iPhone 17 Models
November 4, 2024 – Apple is reportedly reducing production of its iPhone air model, signaling a shift in strategy for the iPhone 17 lineup. According to sources familiar with the matter cited by Nikkei Asia, Apple has informed its supply chain partners of plans to slash iPhone Air production to near “end of production” levels.
This move comes just a week after reports surfaced regarding Samsung potentially canceling the Galaxy S26 Edge, following underwhelming sales of the ultra-slim S25 Edge. Despite the reduction in iPhone Air output, apple is maintaining its overall production estimate for the iPhone 17 series at approximately 85 to 90 million units.Production of the base iPhone 17 has been increased by 5 million units, and output for the Pro models has also been boosted.
The iPhone Air, Apple’s first foray into ultra-thin smartphones, currently accounts for roughly 10 to 15 percent of all iPhone 17 production orders, but volumes will be significantly reduced starting in November. While The Verge’s Allison Johnson praised the iPhone Air’s “fresh design” and noted that “the lighter weight is the real benefit” in a recent review,the model’s battery life and single camera have been cited as drawbacks.
Recent data from Counterpoint indicates the iPhone 17 series is outpacing the iPhone 16 series, with a 14 percent increase in sales during the first 10 days of availability in the US and China. Base iPhone 17 sales have seen a particularly sharp 31 percent increase, potentially driven by the addition of an always-on, high-refresh-rate display. The iPhone 17 pro/Pro Max experienced a 12 percent sales bump attributed to carrier upgrade deals.
Sales of the iPhone Air are reportedly comparable to those of the iPhone 16 Plus, the model it replaced in the iPhone lineup, with both representing the smallest portion of sales for their respective generations. The iPhone Air might potentially be a precursor to a rumored foldable iPhone, as detailed in a teardown by iFixit.
