You read the headlines right, a new report suggests that Apple’s iPhone Air is seeing significantly stronger early adoption compared to the Plus model it replaced. Based on cellular data from Ookla, the iPhone Air recorded roughly double the usage share of the iPhone 16 Plus during their respective launch periods.
Early Data Shows Clear YoY Improvement
According to the data, the iPhone Air accounted for around 6.8% of usage during the iPhone 17 launch window. In comparison, the iPhone 16 Plus managed less than 3% in the same timeframe a year earlier. While these figures are based on real-world usage from Speedtest app data rather than direct sales numbers, they offer a strong indicator of early adoption trends. The jump suggests that Apple’s shift away from the Plus branding toward the Air model may be resonating better with users.
Still the Weakest in the Lineup, But No Longer a Flop
Despite the improvement, the iPhone Air remains one of the least popular models in the current lineup. Premium variants like the 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max continue to dominate usage share by a wide margin. However, the Air’s performance is now closer to the base model, putting it in a more competitive position than the Plus ever achieved. This positions the Air as a more viable fourth option in Apple’s lineup, even if it is not a top seller.
Interestingly, the data suggests that the Air’s gains could be slightly impacting the Pro tier. The share of the Pro model dipped compared to the previous generation, while the Air saw the biggest year-over-year increase. This could indicate that some buyers who previously opted for a Pro device are now choosing the Air instead.
Stronger Performance in International Markets
The report also highlights notable regional differences. While the U.S. figures show steady growth, the iPhone Air performs even better in certain international markets. In countries like South Korea, the device reached usage shares of over 11%, with similarly strong adoption seen in Japan, Sweden, and Singapore. This suggests that the Air’s appeal may vary depending on market preferences and pricing dynamics.
Looking Ahead to Apple’s Experimental Models
Apple has historically struggled to establish a consistent fourth iPhone model, with both the Mini and Plus variants underperforming. The iPhone Air appears to be the company’s most successful attempt yet at filling that slot, carving out a clearer niche within the lineup. Stay tuned for more trending tech news at TechNave.com.
