Second-Gen iPhone Air Set for Fall Launch as iPhone 17e Enters Mass Production [Rumor]

Apple appears to be moving forward with a second-generation iPhone Air for release this fall, despite recent supply chain reports that suggested the ultra-thin device may have faced delays or internal reassessment.



According to a new post on Weibo from leaker Fixed Focus Digital, the successor to the company's slim smartphone is "confirmed," based on the leaker's own sourcing, to debut at Apple's annual autumn event. This contrasts with a report from The Information last month, which claimed Apple had postponed the model until 2027. That report said the delay was tied to internal considerations about reworking the chassis to support a dual-camera system, a larger battery, and potentially a vapor chamber cooling system similar to those found in higher-end models — changes seen as a way to improve the device's appeal after a weak debut.


Additionally, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported that suppliers were slashing production of the current iPhone Air after demand fell sharply. Even so, the new leak indicates Apple may still be moving ahead with a successor instead of dropping the design altogether.

Beyond the fall lineup, the leaker says the iPhone 17e has already entered mass production and is expected to launch in the spring. That timeline matches earlier roadmaps pointing to a first-half 2026 release. The new entry-level model is expected to receive a notable refresh, including the removal of the notch in favor of the Dynamic Island and likely adoption of the A19 chip required for Apple Intelligence. BOE is also said to have secured the lead for the device's OLED display, which reportedly features thinner bezels than its predecessor.

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