After years of consistently choosing iPhone Pro models, this year Apple tempted me to switch with its ultra-thin iPhone Air. To my surprise, the new Air has easily exceeded my expectations. Yet, rumors of underwhelming sales and a fresh third-party report have cast some doubt on the iPhone Air’s future.
iPhone Air: An Impressive Device, But Struggling in Sales?
Ever since the earliest whispers about Apple’s ultra-thin iPhone began circulating last year, I felt a strong pull toward this new model.
Apple’s iPhone lineup has seen few major design changes in recent years. I’m a habitual yearly upgrader, but there was a noticeable stretch where new iPhones barely looked or felt different—especially on the outside.
That’s why the radically thin iPhone Air caught my attention immediately. It seemed like the futuristic, sleek iPhone X-style refresh I’d been waiting for.
And it has delivered—even better than I hoped.
The battery life and durability have consistently impressed me. Surprisingly, I haven’t missed the extra cameras that come with the Pro line. Every Air owner I’ve spoken with echoes similar praise.
But despite these strengths, I worry the iPhone Air isn’t hitting the sales numbers it should.
Apple hasn’t released official sales data, and it likely won’t provide specific Air figures in the upcoming quarterly earnings.
Still, analysts have noted that demand for the Air seems softer compared to the rest of the iPhone 17 lineup.
Samsung’s Ultra-Thin Rival Gets the Axe
Adding to concerns: Samsung has reportedly canceled its ultra-thin Galaxy Edge line—a direct competitor to the iPhone Air.
According to industry reports, Samsung’s current ultra-thin Edge model sold far below expectations, prompting the company to end the line immediately. The Galaxy S26 Edge won’t be released, and remaining stock of the current Edge will be cleared out.
Leaked sales figures explain why. As Ben Schoon highlights:
- The Galaxy S25 Edge sold just 190,000 units in its first month and only 1.31 million total by August.
- By contrast, the Galaxy S25 sold 8.28 million units, the S25 Ultra moved 12.18 million units, and even the S25+
managed 5.05 million in the same period. - Now, the Galaxy S25 Edge is heavily discounted, with prices as low as $689.
Does Samsung’s poor sales performance predict trouble for the iPhone Air? Not necessarily. However, when paired with analyst reports of sluggish Air demand, the outlook feels uncertain.
What Lies Ahead for iPhone Air?
Apple is currently expected to release an iPhone Air 2 next year, alongside a rumored foldable iPhone Ultra model featuring an innovative design.
That said, these plans could change if the iPhone Air doesn’t achieve sufficient success. Personally, I’d hate to see this lightweight, sleek model disappear so soon.
To me, the iPhone Air represents a new standard—delivering on all its promises. It’s hard to imagine going back to thicker, heavier iPhones.
What’s your take?
Do you believe the iPhone Air has a promising future in Apple’s lineup? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
