Apple is reportedly planning to reduce production of the iPhone Air after weaker-than-expected sales outside China, according to Japan’s Mizuho Securities via The Elec. The firm claims that while the iPhone 17 lineup as a whole is performing strongly, the iPhone Air has become the outlier in an otherwise successful product cycle.
Mizuho’s data suggests that Apple will lower iPhone Air production by one million units before the end of 2025. At the same time, it will increase production of other iPhone 17 models, including an additional two million units for the iPhone 17, one million for the iPhone 17 Pro, and four million for the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Apple’s total iPhone 17 production forecast has reportedly risen from 88 million to 94 million units.
The iPhone Air launched as Apple’s thinnest iPhone ever, a design meant to balance premium aesthetics with a lighter form factor. Its appeal, however, appears to vary sharply across regions. The device sold out within hours during its delayed China release, signaling strong local interest, but its reception in Western markets has been muted. Analysts believe the uneven sales performance has prompted Apple to shift manufacturing priorities toward its better-selling models.
Interestingly, this comes as Samsung has canceled its own ultra-thin Galaxy S25 Edge successor due to low demand, leaving Apple largely uncontested in the ultra-slim flagship segment. The iPhone Air’s success in China may keep it relevant in Apple’s portfolio for now, but its future production volume depends heavily on whether international demand stabilizes through the holiday quarter.
Despite the forecasts, the exact scale of Apple’s production shift remains uncertain. Mizuho’s projections are based on market estimates rather than confirmed supply chain data, and Apple itself does not publicly disclose production figures. Historically, the company adjusts its iPhone mix multiple times throughout the year, especially as early demand for Pro models tapers off and mainstream models gain traction.
(via The Elec)
