Just weeks after launching its latest iPhone lineup, Apple is reportedly making changes to its production strategy. According to a report from Nikkei Asia, the company is slashing output of the iPhone Air due to weak demand, while ramping up production of the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max — all of which are seeing stronger sales.
iPhone Air Struggles to Gain Traction
The iPhone Air, promoted as Apple’s slimmest iPhone ever and powered by the A19 Pro chip, isn’t performing well in global markets outside China. Sources say Apple has told suppliers to cut back on component orders starting November, with production expected to drop to less than 10% of what it was in September.
iPhone 17 Lineup in High Demand
While the iPhone Air lags, the rest of the lineup is exceeding expectations. Apple has reportedly increased orders for the standard iPhone 17 by around 5 million units, and demand for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max has also led to higher production volumes.
Signs From the Market
The trend is easy to spot on Apple’s own website. The iPhone 17 and 17 Pro show delivery wait times of several weeks, while the iPhone Air is listed as available right away — a clear sign of weaker interest.
Overall Outlook
Despite the cutback for the iPhone Air, Apple’s total production target for the iPhone 17 lineup remains steady at 85 to 90 million units. The strong performance of the other models is expected to balance out the slump in Air sales.
