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Apple is quietly cutting back production of the iPhone Air, according to prominent analyst Ming‑Chi Kuo — a move that signals shifting priorities in Apple’s lineup and its supply chain.
Kuo’s alert: steep cuts and parts at risk
On Oct. 22, 2025, analyst Ming‑Chi Kuo tweeted that Apple is reducing iPhone Air shipments and production capacity. He warns that most suppliers will scale down capacity by more than 80% by Q1 2026, and that some components with longer lead times may be discontinued by the end of 2025.
That level of reduction is severe: it implies Apple expects demand for the Air to fall well short of initial forecasts. Kuo likened the Air’s struggle to earlier, lower‑selling variants such as the iPhone mini and iPhone Plus — models that never captured broad consumer interest.
Why Apple might be dialing back
There are a few likely explanations. Apple’s Pro models typically dominate early sales cycles, and Apple often reallocates capacity to match stronger demand. The company’s sprawling supply chain makes that flexibility possible: factories, suppliers and logistics can be shifted to favor higher‑margin Pro units.
Alternatively, this could be it for the Air as a distinct model. If retail uptake remains weak after the initial months, Apple may not justify a second run. Non‑Pro iPhones sometimes gain momentum later in the product cycle, but when components start getting discontinued, the path back becomes harder.
What it means for buyers and suppliers
- Consumers: If you like the Air’s design or price, act sooner rather than later — stock could thin and limited parts availability could affect repairs down the road.
- Suppliers: Expect sharp capacity reductions and potential contract renegotiations. Vendors that rely on long‑lead components are the most exposed.
- Developers and carriers: Shifts in model mix can change accessory demand and carrier promotions; prepare for a Pro‑centric marketing push.
Imagine walking into a store months from now and finding fewer Air units on display — that’s the scenario this report suggests. Whether Apple is temporarily optimizing production or quietly sunsetting the Air will depend on sales data in the coming quarter.
What to watch next
Look for inventory levels at Apple Stores and major retailers, updated guidance from suppliers, and any statements from Apple ahead of its next sales cycle. Kuo’s timeline — more than 80% capacity cuts by Q1 2026 and some component discontinuations by end‑2025 — gives a concrete window to monitor.
For now, the iPhone Air’s future looks uncertain — and that uncertainty will shape Apple's hardware lineup into 2026.
Source: gsmarena
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