The sales performance of Apple’s ultra-thin iPhone Air, which fell short of expectations, has led major Chinese smartphone manufacturers to cancel or suspend plans for similar projects.

iPhone Air sales disappoint

It’s already known that Apple significantly reduced or completely halted production due to the iPhone Air’s disappointing sales. A new supply chain report reveals the reaction of Chinese brands to this situation and their decision to cancel plans for similar ultra-thin phones.

The iPhone 17 Pro quickly sold out of stock on its release day, while the iPhone Air was still readily available days later. Some sources have suggested that interest in Apple’s ultra-thin phone is low, and it’s even been reported that Apple has completely halted production of the device.

The new supply chain report reveals that Chinese smartphone brands have taken this into account and abandoned similar ultra-thin Android phone projects. Major Chinese manufacturers such as Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo have reportedly suspended or canceled their own “Air” ultra-thin phone projects.

Apple made some technical compromises to achieve a super-thin 5.6mm profile with the iPhone Air. To achieve this slimness, the phone was offered with a smaller battery, a mono speaker, and a single rear camera, but it still commanded a substantial price.

Most users opted for the iPhone 17 Pro, which offered a triple-lens camera system and significantly better battery life, or the standard iPhone 17, which came with significant upgrades this year. These choices demonstrated that demand in the ultra-thin segment was not being met.