The buzz around ultra-thin smartphones like the rumored iPhone Air is fading, as major players in the mobile industry appear to be shelving their slim phone projects. Chinese manufacturers such as Xiaomi, Vivo, and Oppo are reportedly freezing or abandoning their plans to compete in the ultra-thin phone segment. Instead, these companies are redirecting their innovative eSIM technology toward other device categories.
Why Chinese Brands Are Stepping Back from Ultra-Thin Smartphones
According to insider reports, Xiaomi had intentions to create a “true Air” model aimed at rivaling Apple’s ultra-slim iPhone Air. Vivo, on the other hand, focused on making its mid-range S series notably thinner. However, both companies seem to have paused or canceled these projects, signaling a broader industry reluctance toward pushing the limits of phone thinness.
While rumors persist, multiple reports indicate a shift away from pursuing ultra-thin phones aggressively, as manufacturers are reconsidering the balance between device thinness and practical usability.
Would you still choose an ultra-thin phone if it meant sacrificing battery life or features?
- Yes, I love thin designs – 14.89%
- Maybe — depends on the trade-offs – 19.15%
- No, not worth the compromises – 65.96%
- I’ve already moved on from ultra-slim phones – 0%
What Happened to the iPhone Air and Galaxy S25 Edge?
The iPhone Air and Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge were both introduced with much hype due to their ultra-slim profiles. However, excitement seems to have remained theoretical. Sales data and user feedback suggest that consumers are less interested in sacrificing battery life and camera versatility for a svelte build.
Apple’s iPhone Air, boasting a remarkably thin 5.6mm frame, made significant compromises such as a smaller battery and a single camera lens while maintaining a premium $999 price tag. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S25 Edge also struggled to gain traction, and rumors say Samsung has canceled plans for its successor, the Galaxy S26 Edge.
Ultra-Thin Phones Aren't Dead, But the Era Seems Over—for Now
While this might feel like the end of the ultra-thin phone race, there’s still room for stylish, slim devices that don’t compromise core features. Foldable phones such as the Galaxy Z Fold 7 are reportedly doing well because they offer thinness when unfolded without sacrificing battery or camera quality. Thus, the market signals that consumers want a balanced combination of design and functionality rather than just a super-slim profile.
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