Top 5 Apple iPhone Air alternatives you must check in India

Apple has recently decided to delay the launch of its next iPhone Air, initially anticipated for release in the fall of 2026. This news comes from The Information, which cites sources familiar with Apple's internal strategy. The postponement appears to be a response to lower-than-expected demand for the current iPhone Air, which was introduced in 2025. The first-generation iPhone Air aimed to offer a slimmer and lighter option within Apple’s premium lineup, but its design choices, including a smaller battery and a limited camera system compared to other high-end iPhones, may have hindered its popularity. Analysts suggest that these compromises have led Apple to reconsider the timing of the next model's release. In light of this delay, consumers in India now have several premium alternatives to consider. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, for instance, starts at ₹1,09,999 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage version, with the price rising to ₹1,21,999 for the 12GB and 512GB option. This device features a stunning 6.7-inch Quad HD Plus Dynamic AMOLED 2x display, boasting a 120Hz refresh rate and Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 on the front. With a thickness of just 5.85mm and a weight of approximately 163 grams, it is notably slimmer than both the standard Galaxy S25 and the iPhone 16. Another strong contender is the OnePlus 15, available for ₹72,999 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage variant. It also offers a higher-end model at ₹75,999 with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage. This smartphone features a 6.78-inch 1.5K LTPO AMOLED display with a remarkable 165Hz refresh rate and is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. The camera setup is impressive, with a triple 50MP rear camera system, including a primary sensor with optical stabilization. The iPhone 16 Pro is another noteworthy option, currently priced at ₹89,900 for the 256GB variant. It comes equipped with a 6.3-inch LTPO OLED display, also featuring a 120Hz refresh rate, and is powered by the A18 Pro chip. Its camera system includes a 48MP main sensor and a robust battery life, supporting both wired and wireless charging. For those considering Google’s offerings, the Pixel 10 is priced at ₹79,999 for the 256GB model. It features a 6.3-inch Full HD Plus OLED display and a solid camera array, making it a competitive choice. Lastly, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is available at ₹1,09,999 for the 16GB RAM and 512GB storage variant, showcasing a 6.73-inch WQHD Plus LTPO AMOLED display and a versatile quad-camera system. As Apple reassesses its strategy with the iPhone Air, these alternatives present excellent choices for consumers seeking premium smartphones in the Indian market.