Apple’s new iPhone Air made headlines at its recent launch, mainly for its slim design and Pro-level processor. But in price-sensitive markets like India, the device’s positioning raises questions about who it is really meant for.
The iPhone Air is essentially replacing the older Plus models, but unlike them, it comes with Apple’s high-end Pro processor. However, it carries only a single camera, even though its price is higher than the regular iPhone lineup. This has led many consumers to wonder: is the iPhone Air a larger iPhone or a cheaper iPhone Pro?
Expert Opinions on the iPhone Air
Ranjit Atwal, Senior Director Analyst at Gartner, believes the device is not targeted at India. “Given the price and compromise on the camera, it’s confusing,” he said, noting that Apple also avoided promoting AI-focused use cases for the Pro chip.
Francisco Jeronimo, Vice-President at IDC, explained that the iPhone Air follows Apple’s usual “Air” strategy, like the MacBook Air and iPad Air—offering a lighter, more design-focused product. He highlighted that unlike the Plus models, the Air introduces distinct aesthetics that could motivate some buyers.
Still, Jeronimo admitted that in markets like India, the single-camera setup may feel like a downgrade despite its Pro-level positioning. “The pricing may be too high for mass market adoption,” he said.
The Pricing Dilemma in India
In India, the iPhone 17 (256 GB) is priced at Rs 82,900, while the iPhone Air (256 GB) costs Rs 1,19,900—almost Rs 40,000 more. This makes it just Rs 15,000 cheaper than the iPhone 17 Pro, which comes with three professional-grade cameras.
For Indian buyers who often weigh specifications against price, this narrow gap makes the iPhone Air a difficult sell. While the phone appeals to those who value slim design and powerful performance over camera features, its high price point may limit its adoption.
The Bottom Line
The iPhone Air could open doors to a new group of users who want compact yet powerful devices, possibly for AI-based workflows or design-conscious usage. But in India, where affordability and camera performance matter deeply, Apple may find it challenging to justify the Air’s premium price.
