In a significant shift to its product roadmap, Apple has reportedly decided to push back the launch of its next-generation iPhone Air. The device, initially anticipated to hit the market in the autumn of 2026, has now been delayed, according to a report from The Information which cites sources familiar with Apple's internal plans.
What Prompted the Delay?
The primary reason behind this strategic postponement is lower-than-expected consumer demand for the current iPhone Air model, which made its debut in 2025. The first-generation iPhone Air was marketed as a thinner and lighter option within Apple's premium lineup. However, this sleek design came with notable compromises, including a smaller battery capacity and a reduced camera system compared to other high-end iPhones.
Industry analysts suggest that these trade-offs likely played a crucial role in the model's slower market adoption. Consumers, it seems, were not fully convinced by the sacrifice of core features for a slimmer profile, prompting Apple to reassess the timing for its successor.
Top Alternatives to the iPhone Air in India
With the next iPhone Air now postponed, Indian consumers looking for a premium smartphone experience have several compelling alternatives to consider. Here are some of the strongest contenders available in the market.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge is a formidable competitor, starting at ₹1,09,999 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage variant. It boasts a 6.7-inch Quad HD Plus Dynamic AMOLED 2x display with a 120Hz refresh rate and is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. Its camera system is headlined by a 200MP primary sensor, and at just 5.85mm thick, it's even slimmer than the iPhone 16.
OnePlus 15
Priced from ₹72,999, the OnePlus 15 offers a 6.78-inch 1.5K LTPO AMOLED panel with a super-smooth 165Hz refresh rate. It runs on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and features a versatile triple 50MP rear camera setup. A massive 7,300mAh battery with 120W wired charging ensures it keeps going all day.
iPhone 16 Pro
For those committed to the Apple ecosystem, the iPhone 16 Pro is a natural alternative. Currently listed at ₹89,900 for the 256GB model on Amazon, it features a 6.3-inch LTPO OLED display, the powerful A18 Pro chip, and a sophisticated triple-camera system that includes a 48MP main sensor and a 12MP periscope telephoto lens.
Google Pixel 10
The Google Pixel 10 is priced at ₹79,999 and is renowned for its computational photography. It sports a 6.3-inch Full HD Plus OLED screen, a triple rear camera array with a 48MP main sensor, and a 4,970mAh battery.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra
At the top end, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra costs ₹1,09,999 and leaves little to be desired. It features a 6.73-inch WQHD Plus LTPO AMOLED display, the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and an impressive quad-camera system that includes a 50MP primary sensor and a 200MP periscope telephoto lens with 4.3x optical zoom.
Looking Ahead
Apple's decision to delay the iPhone Air 2 underscores the company's cautious approach in a highly competitive market. The slower sales of the first model have clearly served as critical feedback, likely leading to a reevaluation of the product's design and feature set for its future iteration. For now, Indian consumers have a rich selection of powerful and feature-packed smartphones to choose from while they wait for Apple's next move in the slim flagship segment.
