Dismal iPhone Air Sales Suggest Skinny Phones Are in Trouble

The Decline of the iPhone Air: Is the Skinny Phone Format Dead?

The once-promising iPhone Air seems to be facing a grim fate, as reports suggest that Apple has drastically reduced orders for the slim smartphone, signaling a potential end to its short-lived popularity. According to Nikkei, a reputable Japanese publication, Apple’s decision to cut iPhone Air orders while increasing those of the iPhone 17 family indicates a significant shift in consumer preferences.

Despite maintaining sales forecasts of 85 million to 90 million units, the iPhone Air’s contribution to this figure is expected to be minimal, with one supply chain source revealing that November orders are less than 10 percent of what they were in September.

As the industry reels from this news, questions arise about the viability of the skinny phone format in an increasingly competitive market.

Is the skinny phone done for?

The struggles of the iPhone Air are not isolated, as the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge also faced disappointing sales, leading to rumors of the cancellation of its successor, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Edge. The trend towards ultra-thin smartphones may be losing its appeal, with consumers prioritizing functionality and performance over slim design.

Motorola’s slim hope

Amidst the gloom surrounding skinny smartphones, Motorola offers a ray of hope with the announcement of the Moto X70 Air. Promising powerful performance and affordability, this new model aims to address the shortcomings of its predecessors by focusing on user experience and value.

With features like a Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 processor, enhanced battery life, and competitive pricing, Motorola’s entry into the slim phone market could rejuvenate interest in this form factor.

While the fate of the iPhone Air remains uncertain, Motorola’s approach suggests that the skinny phone format may not be dead after all, but rather in need of a fresh perspective and a more accessible price point.