Core Viewpoint - Apple is significantly reducing production orders for the iPhone Air due to disappointing market performance and is shifting focus to the better-performing iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro series [3][4]. Group 1: Production and Market Performance - The iPhone Air has entered a production halt phase, with the company currently in a capacity adjustment stage, waiting to accumulate orders before resuming production [1]. - Reports indicate that the iPhone Air is nearing a state of "near cessation" in production, with a planned reduction of approximately 1 million units due to lower-than-expected demand [3][4]. - The total estimated production for the iPhone Air is between 19 million and 21 million units, with the reduction bringing it down to a range of 18 million to 20 million units [4]. Group 2: Pricing and Consumer Response - The pricing of the iPhone Air is considered high for the Chinese market, where consumers can find upgraded Android models at lower price points, potentially impacting its market performance [4]. - The iPhone Air's launch faced delays due to the operators postponing the rollout of eSIM strategies, which affected its initial sales momentum [3]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - The iPhone 17 series, particularly the entry-level model, has received significant upgrades, making it a more attractive option compared to the iPhone Air, which may have contributed to the latter's poor sales performance [7]. - Analysts predict that the actual market demand for the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro series is higher than expected, with potential production increases to over 90 million units in the future [7].

Core Insights - The smartphone industry is witnessing a shift from curved screens to flat screens, indicating a return to practical design preferences over aesthetic trends [1][2] - The rise of curved screens began with Samsung's Galaxy S6 edge in 2015, which set a trend among Android flagship models, associating curved screens with high-end positioning [1][2] - The high production costs and limited supply of curved screens contributed to their initial popularity, allowing manufacturers to create a sense of scarcity and justify higher pricing [2] Industry Trends - The trend towards curved screens was closely linked to the industry's pursuit of high screen-to-body ratios, with manufacturers adopting various design innovations to minimize bezels [1] - However, the actual benefits of curved screens have been questioned, as issues like color distortion and uncomfortable grip have diminished user experience [1][2] - The decline of curved screens began with the 2024 MWC, where Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra was introduced with a flat screen, prompting other manufacturers like Huawei, OPPO, and Xiaomi to follow suit [2] Market Dynamics - Curved screens face challenges such as high repair costs and low resale value, indicating limited market acceptance [2] - The initial dominance of curved screens was partly due to a lack of innovation in other smartphone components, making screen design a key differentiator for manufacturers [2] - Apple's consistent avoidance of curved screens highlights a different approach focused on simplicity and user-friendliness, emphasizing continuous optimization of flat screen technology [3] Future Outlook - The competition surrounding curved screens may have ended, but the smartphone industry is expected to continue innovating, with a hope for future developments to align more closely with genuine user needs rather than mere aesthetic enhancements [3]