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The iPhone Air was meant to be Apple’s answer to the growing popularity of ultrathin smartphones. The manufacturer went for an elegant design, but cut some hardware compared with the pricier models. Many hoped the device’s second generation would fix the main shortcomings of the first. However, the latest leaks suggest Apple may be heading in a completely different direction. The company reportedly plans to both improve and limit the device’s capabilities, which could significantly affect customer interest.
Apple may opt for a weaker chip than expected
According to the latest information, the iPhone Air 2 is set to receive the standard A20 processor instead of the more powerful A20 Pro. That would mean the device would be powered by exactly the same chip as the base iPhone 18. For many users, that decision may be hard to accept. So far the Air line was meant to stand out with a distinctive design while offering specs close to the higher models. If the leaks prove true, performance differences between the iPhone Air 2 and the standard iPhone 18 could be virtually unnoticeable. That raises questions about the point of having such a model in Apple’s lineup, especially since the device will likely cost noticeably more than the base variant. Sources suggest the manufacturer is looking for ways to reduce costs tied to rolling out new processors manufactured on a 2 nm process. These technologies are exceptionally costly, and Apple must keep production costs in check for future smartphone generations. Using the standard chip could significantly lower expenses linked to producing the Air model. At the same time, the company would risk losing one of the device’s selling points. For some customers, performance remains one of the most important factors when choosing a new phone.
An improved camera may not be enough to convince customers
That doesn't mean, however, that Apple isn't planning any upgrades. According to leaks, the iPhone Air 2 may get a dual camera made up of two 48-megapixel sensors. That would be a significant step forward compared to the first-generation device, which was often criticized for its limited photographic capabilities. A better camera array would certainly increase the model's appeal for many users. The problem, however, is that the camera alone may not be enough to justify a higher price. If the smartphone offers the same processor and a similar amount of RAM as the cheaper iPhone 18, many customers may opt for the base model. So Apple is in a fairly difficult position. On one hand the company wants to grow its line of ultra-thin smartphones, on the other it has to convince users that they're worth the extra cost. Experts point out that sales of such devices have never been as high as those of traditional iPhone models. That's why some sources suggest Apple may limit production of the iPhone Air 2 to relatively small quantities. That would help reduce the risk associated with potentially weaker market interest. If the second generation doesn't succeed, the maker may abandon this product line altogether in the coming years. In that scenario, Plus models could return to the lineup, as they were a staple of Apple's portfolio for years.
The latest leaks suggest the iPhone Air 2 may receive a less powerful processor than brand fans expected. Although the device is expected to get a better camera, potential performance limitations could make it harder to compete for customers. For Apple, this could be one of the most important tests for the future of the entire Air lineup.
source: wccftech
