Speculation has resurfaced that Apple could push ahead with a successor to its ultra-thin smartphone, the iPhone Air, despite weak sales. On April 10, IT outlet TechRadar reported that Weibo leaker Fixed Focus Digital claimed Apple plans to release the iPhone Air 2 even if sales are sluggish.

The credibility of the claim remains uncertain. It is not clear whether the phrase in the post, “continue to be developed repeatedly,” refers to an actual launch, and the nuance could vary depending on the translation.

The launch schedule is also unclear. For now, Apple is being discussed as possibly unveiling the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and foldable iPhone Ultra at its September event. The March 2027 event is likely to focus on non-Pro models such as the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e. It is unclear where the premium iPhone Air 2 would fit between those events.

Another variable is that it may not fit Apple’s existing product strategy. Apple is not easily seen as a company that forces low-profit products into the market. If iPhone Air sales fell short of expectations, pressing ahead with a follow-up could run counter to its established approach.

Still, some assessments say it is hard to conclude the iPhone Air itself is a failure. The iPhone Air sold for $999, but its rear camera remained at the same level as the $599 iPhone 17e. It drew attention for its ultra-thin design, but critics say it lacked specifications to support its price.

Battery life is also cited as a weakness. The iPhone Air’s “all-day” battery performance is not far behind the industry average, but one assessment said it could be shorter than the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17, and in some cases even the iPhone 17e. The analysis is that the decision to omit a telephoto camera and large battery to achieve the ultra-thin design weakened its product appeal.

Even if a follow-up is released, the tasks to address are clear. Critics say the iPhone Air 2 needs a telephoto camera and battery improvements to justify its high price. They also say the design is polished, but it lacked too many elements to draw demand away from Pro models.