Apple’s iPhone Air 2 Delay May Impact Galaxy S26 Edge Launch Plans
Reports suggest that the iPhone Air has underperformed relative to Apple’s projections. Samsung encountered a similar challenge with the Galaxy S25 Edge, as its slim design and premium positioning failed to deliver the anticipated commercial impact.
Apple has reportedly followed Samsung’s lead with the Galaxy S26 Edge. The company is said to have canceled or postponed the iPhone Air 2’s release for next year, a decision that may negatively impact the Galaxy S26 Edge’s market position.
Production Set to Cease Completely by Next Month
The Information, citing three people involved in the project, reported that Apple has informed its engineering teams and suppliers that the next iPhone Air has been removed from the schedule with no new release date set.
Apple had planned to launch the second-generation iPhone Air next fall, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Fold. The device was expected to be more efficient, with a lighter build, an upgraded battery and potentially the vapor chamber cooling system introduced with the iPhone 17 Pro.
According to the report, Apple has not formally canceled the next iPhone Air, with certain engineers and suppliers continuing to work on the project. The company appears to be taking a cautious “wait and see” approach in light of disappointing sales for the iPhone Air.
Sources suggest that Foxconn, Apple’s primary manufacturing partner for the iPhone Air, is expected to discontinue production of the device next month. Luxshare, the secondary partner, had already halted production last month.
Apple’s current scenario closely resembles Samsung’s experience. Both companies appear to have overestimated market demand for ultra-thin flagship devices and no longer see a viable business case for continuing them next year.
Samsung initially intended to replace the Galaxy S26+ with the Galaxy S26 Edge in next year’s lineup. The company has since reversed this decision, keeping the Galaxy S26+ in the lineup. Reports indicate that Samsung is continuing development of a slim device, though it appears to differ from the model originally planned as a replacement for the Galaxy S26+.
