Apple is getting closer to launching mass production of the iPhone 17 Air

Next year, Apple is planning significant changes in its smartphone lineup. According to rumors, the company will replace the Plus model with the iPhone 17 Air — an ultra-slim device with a single main camera.

According to sources in the supply chain, the iPhone 17 Air has already passed the New Product Introduction (NPI) stage. This is the first step on the road to mass production, which involves Apple working with suppliers to assess the feasibility of design implementation and select assembly methods.

At this stage, the company analyzes how practical the planned assembly approaches are. At the same time, minor changes in the design are possible to adapt it to technological possibilities or to reduce production costs.

After the completion of the NPI, the next step will be the launch of a test production line, which will allow checking the compliance of the processes with the previous planning.

Current data suggests that the company has decided to discontinue the Plus model in 2024 in favor of the new iPhone 17 Air. It remains to be seen whether the novelty will be able to achieve greater sales success than its predecessor.

Although development is at an early stage, Apple seems serious about introducing this innovation to its lineup. Will the iPhone 17 Air live up to expectations — we will find out later.