Apple Sells Only 200,000 iPhone Air Units in China Compared to 17 Million iPhone 17 Models

The launch of the iPhone Air has highlighted a significant contrast in consumer response compared to Apple’s latest iPhone 17 series in China. Recent data reveals that the iPhone Air has captured only 1.1% of the sales momentum seen by the iPhone 17, a performance that comes as a surprise in a market traditionally favorable towards Apple’s sleek offerings.

Sales Figures Revealed by Ice Universe

The sales of the iPhone Air are very poor. In China, the iPhone 17 series has sold 17 million units. However, the iPhone Air has sold only over 200, 000 units.

— Ice Universe (@UniverseIce) January 26, 2026

According to the well-known leakster Ice Universe, Apple has only been able to sell 200, 000 units of the iPhone Air, contrasted with a staggering 17 million units sold from the iPhone 17 series. This stark contrast underscores a significant challenge for a device that had initially been expected to revolutionize the market.

Interestingly, the iPhone Air had previously kindled a movement towards eSIM technology in China, a country known for its hesitancy to adopt this innovation until now. Nevertheless, recent sales metrics indicate a lack of traction amidst consumers.

In an effort to revitalize sales, Apple’s official Tmall store in China has introduced discounts reaching up to 2, 000 yuan (approximately $286), bringing the iPhone Air’s price down to around $788. Additionally, e-commerce giant JD.com is offering an extra subsidy of about $57, further decreasing the total price by roughly $415.

While significant price cuts are in place, the iPhone Air has suffered considerable depreciation since its debut, recording a 47.7% drop in value within the first 10 weeks—making it the most rapidly depreciating iPhone model released since 2022.

It’s important to note the limitations of the iPhone Air itself, which features a modest battery capacity, a sole 48MP camera equipped with Telephoto-like optical-quality 2× zoom, and only one speaker. These specifications may contribute to its lackluster appeal.

Despite the disappointing sales statistics, Bloomberg analyst Mark Gurman has suggested that Apple anticipated the iPhone Air to comprise 6% to 8% of total annual iPhone sales. He argues that the device still serves a crucial role for Apple, functioning as a testing platform for potential future technologies.

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