Apple has reportedly decided to delay the launch of the iPhone Air 2, following underwhelming sales of the original iPhone Air. The sequel was initially expected to debut in fall 2026, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, but recent reports suggest that Apple is now reconsidering its plans.
According to The Information, Apple’s bet on a slimmer iPhone design hasn’t delivered the results it hoped for. The iPhone Air, which launched just two months ago, is already seeing production cuts as demand falls short of expectations.
Production Halts at Major Suppliers
Sources indicate that Apple supplier Luxshare halted production of the iPhone Air by the end of October, while Foxconn is expected to wind down manufacturing by late November. This suggests Apple may have pulled the plug on further production far earlier than usual.
Why the iPhone Air Struggled
Despite early buzz around its ultra-thin form factor, the iPhone Air reportedly fell short due to a mix of factors — limited battery life, single-camera setup, and a premium price tag that didn’t align with its features.
The situation draws parallels with Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge, another “experimental” design that failed to attract buyers, leading Samsung to cancel the rumored S26 Edge in favor of the standard Galaxy S26 Plus.
What’s Next for Apple’s Lineup?
The setback raises questions about Apple’s broader strategy for its four-model iPhone lineup. Some reports hint that the company could skip the base iPhone 18 altogether and replace it later with a reworked iPhone 17e.
The news also casts a shadow over Apple’s upcoming foldable iPhone, another ambitious project expected to launch next year. With the iPhone Air’s lukewarm reception, Apple might be treading more carefully with its next wave of experimental designs.