The iPhone Air hasn’t been a pre-order hit yet

It’s almost a week since pre-orders started, and the market situation shows: all the new iPhone models have quickly gone into short supply, except for the iPhone Air. The ultra-thin smartphone remains available to pick up on launch day in almost all configurations. The exception is the 512GB version in Cloud White, for which delivery dates have already been pushed back 2-3 weeks.

Production and expectations

According to The Information, Apple initially budgeted modest production volumes for the iPhone Air. It was allocated only 10% of production capacity. By comparison, the iPhone 17 got 25 percent, the iPhone 17 Pro also got 25 percent, and the higher-end iPhone 17 Pro Max got 40 percent.

This decision was due to doubts about demand: rumors of a smaller battery made the model potentially risky for the masses. Sources estimate that only 60-70% of owners will be able to go a day without recharging. For other models, the figure is higher – 80-90%. As a compromise, Apple is developing a special battery case for the slim version of the smartphone.

Start and React

At its Awe Dropping presentation, Apple tried to emphasize the benefits of the iPhone Air. The device received positive reviews for its design, and the company tried to mitigate its battery life limitations with engineering solutions.

And the device’s design was praised for its design, while its battery life limitations were mitigated by the company.

Apple promoted the model heavily, with top executives repeatedly commenting on the iPhone Air, and an episode in which marketing director Greg Joswiak threw a test sample to journalist Lance Ulanoff went viral on social media.

There’s no excitement comparable to other models yet, however. Within minutes of pre-orders opening, the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max were already shipping for late October. The iPhone Air, on the other hand, remains available for launch a few days later.

What this means for Apple

It’s too early to talk about the failure of the iPhone Air. Demand may change when the first reviews and battery life tests come out. Perhaps consumers want to try the device in person before they buy it, to see the trade-offs between design and battery life.

The scenario could also turn toward scarcity once the model goes on sale: if the masses like it, it may become harder to find than the Pro versions.