iPhone Air Resale Value Drops by Nearly Half

The iPhone Air generated significant buzz this year as Apple’s most anticipated new device. Boasting the title of Apple’s thinnest and lightest iPhone to date, it is powered by the cutting-edge A19 Pro chip, offering performance comparable to the iPhone 17. The iPhone Air is undeniably a premium product, featuring a titanium frame and Ceramic Shield 2 glass on both the front and back, reminiscent of the design of the iPhone 17 Pro.

For the average user, the iPhone Air fulfills all requirements with minimal complaints. Everyday tasks such as calls, messages, browsing, and streaming are seamless, even handling heavier apps and games with ease. With its sleek design, lightweight feel, and enhanced portability, the iPhone Air offers a fresh experience. The 6.5-inch screen size falls between the 6.3-inch iPhone 17 and 17 Pro and the flagship 6.9-inch iPhone 17 Pro Max, providing a balance of size and functionality. Its modern design and impressive performance make it a more enticing upgrade compared to the iPhone 17.

Despite Apple’s technological achievements, the iPhone Air has faced criticism. Starting at $999, it carries a $200 premium over the iPhone 17 and is only $100 cheaper than the iPhone 17 Pro. The primary concerns surrounding the iPhone Air include a single rear camera, limited battery life, and reports of performance throttling. Additionally, it features a single speaker located in the earpiece at the top of the device and lacks wired video output, a standard feature in previous iPhone models.

Both the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro offer dual speakers for superior sound quality in stereo, as well as more advanced camera systems. They also support connectivity to external monitors or TVs, a feature absent in the iPhone Air. The iPhone Air seems to prioritize the “wow factor” over practical functionality.

Recent reports indicate that iPhone Air owners not only pay a premium upfront but also face rapid depreciation in value. According to SellCell, the iPhone Air experiences the fastest depreciation among all iPhone models, losing up to 47.7% of its value within 10 weeks. Compared to other iPhone 17 models, the Air depreciates nearly 10% more by week 10 and continues to lose value beyond that point.

The drawbacks of the iPhone Air significantly impact its resale value, making it a less appealing option for price-conscious consumers looking to trade in their old iPhones. Despite these challenges, Apple shows no signs of abandoning the iPhone Air. The second-generation model may address these issues and garner more consumer interest, but until its specifications align with its price, early adopters may face unexpected costs both at purchase and resale.