Apple isn’t shelving the iPhone Air 2, but a new model may still be years away

In a significant shift from its usual lineup, Apple introduced the iPhone Air, replacing the iPhone 16 Plus with a sleeker and lighter alternative. Initially generating considerable buzz on social media, the excitement was soon tempered by reports suggesting that Apple might push back the release of the next iPhone Air model due to disappointing sales figures, raising questions about the success of this new venture. However, a recent analysis by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman indicates that the situation might not be as dire as it seems. According to Gurman, Apple had anticipated that the iPhone Air would contribute to approximately 6 to 8% of overall new iPhone sales, a figure that aligns closely with the performance of the iPhone 16 Plus. Despite the initial fanfare during the launch event, Apple has since refrained from extensive marketing for the iPhone Air, suggesting that expectations for its reception were modest from the outset. Gurman further elaborates that the iPhone Air serves a dual purpose, functioning as a prototype leading towards the development of a foldable iPhone. The device reportedly shares many components and technologies, including materials and software optimizations, with the future foldable model. This strategic move appears to be part of Apple's effort to streamline its supply chain in preparation for the anticipated launch. Interestingly, the name 'iPhone Air' suggests that it is not bound to the traditional September release schedule, potentially positioning it for a simultaneous launch with the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e in the first half of 2027. Earlier reports have confirmed that the iPhone 18 will also be taken out of the September launch window, aligning it with the iPhone 18e, which is expected to debut about six months after the next iPhone release. Looking ahead, Gurman speculates that the next iteration, the iPhone Air 2, could be powered by a cutting-edge 2 nanometre processor, potentially addressing battery life issues that plagued the first model. Additionally, introducing an ultra-wide camera might necessitate a complete redesign of the camera layout, a move Apple may hesitate to make given the limited usage of such features among consumers. Stay updated with the latest in technology by following our news coverage.