iPhone Air Demand Collapsing? Apple Slashing Production, Says Ming-Chi Kuo

Apple's supply chain is scaling back production and shipments of the new iPhone Air due to weaker-than-expected demand, according to TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. In a post on X, Kuo said that most suppliers are expected to reduce their production capacity for the device by more than 80% by the first quarter of 2026. Some components with longer lead times may even be discontinued by the end of 2025.

The forecast follows a Nikkei Asia report from earlier today that also claimed Apple was slashing orders for the iPhone Air while boosting production for the standard iPhone 17 and Pro models. The weaker demand comes after an initial report from Counterpoint Research suggested the iPhone Air was outperforming the iPhone 16 Plus it replaced in the first ten days of availability.

Kuo suggests the Air is the latest in a line of models, including the mini and Plus, that have failed to carve out a significant new market segment. Apple introduced the iPhone Air as its thinnest smartphone ever at its September event, but early reviews flagged its high price and camera trade-offs as potential drawbacks for many buyers.
Kuo says the soft demand for the Air indicates that the existing Pro and standard models already cover the majority of high-end user demand, leaving little room for new segments.


Please download the iClarified app or follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and RSS for more iPhone updates.