High Demand for iPhone 17 Models, But Questions Remain About iPhone Air
Apple’s latest launch weekend has confirmed what many expected: High Demand for iPhone 17 Models, But Questions Remain About iPhone Air. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo revealed that preorder interest has outpaced last year’s iPhone 16 series, particularly for the Pro lineup. Yet, uncertainty continues to surround the iPhone Air and how it fits into Apple’s long-term strategy.
iPhone 17 Preorders Surpass Expectations
Preorders for the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max are off to a strong start. According to Kuo, production for the third quarter is up about 25% compared to the iPhone 16 models last year.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is leading the pack, with production volume set at nearly 60% higher than the 16 Pro Max. This suggests Apple’s premium-tier devices remain the most attractive option for users who want cutting-edge performance and features.
iPhone Air: The Outlier in the Lineup
While demand for the iPhone 17 lineup looks promising, the iPhone Air is raising eyebrows. It’s the only model in the new release cycle that is readily available at launch, which at first glance signals weaker demand.
However, Kuo points out that Apple has tripled production compared to last year’s iPhone 16 Plus. This makes it harder to draw direct comparisons. Unlike the Pro or base models, the iPhone Air doesn’t have a clear predecessor, which complicates early demand analysis.
Can the iPhone Air Win Over Customers?
Kuo believes that while the iPhone Air “doesn’t look compelling on paper,” Apple’s in-store experience could play a crucial role. Once customers hold and test the device, the iPhone Air may prove to be a surprise hit.
Its positioning as a middle ground between the base iPhone 17 and the Pro models could make it appealing for buyers seeking a balance of price and features. But until real-world sales data comes in, its success remains uncertain.
What This Means for Apple’s Strategy
The clear high demand for iPhone 17 models shows that Apple’s flagship devices continue to dominate the market. At the same time, the iPhone Air represents a new experiment in lineup diversification.
If the Air succeeds, Apple could establish a fresh product tier that bridges the gap between mainstream and premium buyers. If it falters, the company may need to rethink its mid-range offering in future cycles.
