iPhone Release Dates: A Complete History

The Apple iPhone stands as one of the most groundbreaking inventions of the 21st century. With over 2.3 billion units sold worldwide, it's not just a device but a cultural phenomenon. Launched 17 years ago, the first iPhone set the stage for a series of innovations that have transformed the smartphone landscape. With multiple iPhone lines released each year, keeping track of all the generations can be quite the task. Below, we've organized a comprehensive timeline of every iPhone model released from 2007 to 2024, leading up to the latest iPhone 16.

iPhone Release History

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How Many iPhone Generations Have There Been?

In total, there have been **24 different iPhone generations**. Since the first iPhone debuted in 2007, Apple has released at least one new model every year. This count includes variations such as the Plus or Max series alongside the mainline iPhone generation, with models like the iPhone SE 2 and iPhone XR listed as separate entries.

How often do you get a new iPhone?

Every yearEvery 2-3 yearsOnly when my current iPhone stops working

Answer

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Every iPhone Generation in Order of Release

iPhone - June 29, 2007

The revolutionary first iPhone was unveiled on June 29, 2007. It combined the functionalities of an iPod, a phone, and internet capabilities, marking a significant leap in the smartphone market. Apple's decision to eliminate the physical keyboard in favor of a digital one on the 3.5-inch display, alongside a 2 megapixel camera, set the stage for the technological revolution that followed.

iPhone 3G - July 11, 2008

The iPhone 3G introduced 3G connectivity, enabling faster data speeds. It was also the first iPhone to feature the Apple App Store, which revolutionized mobile app development and usage.

iPhone 3GS - June 19, 2009

The iPhone 3GS upgraded the camera to 3 megapixels, enhancing photo quality and pushing smartphones closer to replacing traditional cameras. It also offered new storage options and claimed to be twice as fast as the iPhone 3G.

iPhone 4 - June 24, 2010

The iPhone 4 introduced FaceTime, enabling video calls between devices. It also boasted a 5 megapixel camera with HD video capture and an LED flash, alongside Apple's first Retina display, enhancing text readability and visual clarity.

iPhone 4S - October 14, 2011

The iPhone 4S debuted Siri, Apple's virtual assistant, which became integral to the Apple ecosystem. It also featured 1080p video capture and introduced key software like iCloud and iMessage.

iPhone 5 - September 21, 2012

The iPhone 5 introduced LTE technology, enhancing data capabilities, and focused on audio with new microphones for clearer calls and FaceTime. It was also the first iPhone with a Lightning port, replacing the 30-pin connector.

iPhone 5S - September 20, 2013

The iPhone 5S introduced Touch ID, allowing fingerprint unlocking, which became a staple until the iPhone X. It also included the A7 processor and enhanced camera technologies.

iPhone 5C - September 20, 2013

The iPhone 5C was Apple's first budget-friendly iPhone, released alongside the 5S. With vibrant colors and internals similar to the iPhone 5, it offered a more affordable entry point into the iPhone ecosystem.

iPhone 6 - September 19, 2014

The iPhone 6 shifted to a slimmer design and introduced Apple Pay, powered by NFC technology. It was the first iPhone generation to offer multiple models, including the larger-screen iPhone 6 Plus.

iPhone 6S - September 25, 2015

The iPhone 6S introduced 3D Touch, allowing the screen to respond to different pressure levels, and offered 4K video capabilities, expanding the iPhone's utility for filming.

iPhone SE - March 31, 2016

The iPhone SE revived the iPhone 5S's design but with updated internals, including 4K video capabilities, providing a compact and affordable option.

iPhone 7 - September 16, 2016

The iPhone 7 controversially removed the headphone jack, shifting to Bluetooth or Lightning port audio. It also added water resistance and a Taptic Engine for haptic feedback, with the iPhone 7 Plus introducing a dual-camera system.

iPhone 8 - September 22, 2017

The iPhone 8 added wireless charging via a glass back and introduced the True Tone display, which adjusted colors and brightness based on environmental conditions.

iPhone X - November 3, 2017

The iPhone X marked a major design shift, eliminating the home button for an all-screen design and introducing Face ID for facial recognition, setting the template for future models.

iPhone XS - September 21, 2018

The iPhone XS offered minor improvements over the iPhone X, including enhanced water resistance and a dual-SIM tray for travelers.

iPhone XR - October 26, 2018

The iPhone XR served as a budget-friendly alternative, featuring an LCD display and a single camera, yet providing a similar experience to the premium models at a lower cost.

iPhone 11 - September 20, 2019

The iPhone 11 increased the base model's screen size to 6.1 inches and introduced an Ultra Wide camera. It also launched Pro models with a triple-camera setup and HDR support.

iPhone SE (2nd Gen) - April 24, 2020

The iPhone SE 2 significantly upgraded performance with the A13 Bionic chip and increased the screen size to 4.7 inches, adding a True Tone display and Haptic Touch.

iPhone 12 - October 23, 2020

The iPhone 12 introduced MagSafe for magnetic accessory attachment and the Super Retina XDR display for base models, along with a Ceramic Shield for durability.

iPhone 13 - September 24, 2021

The iPhone 13 significantly improved battery life and introduced Cinematic Mode for photography, with Pro models featuring ProRes video capture.

iPhone SE (3rd Gen) - March 18, 2022

The iPhone SE 3 reintroduced the home button and added 5G connectivity, along with photography features like Night Mode and Photographic Styles.

iPhone 14 - September 16, 2022

The iPhone 14 introduced Emergency SOS via satellite and upgraded camera systems, marking the return of the Plus model with a larger screen.

iPhone 15 - September 22, 2023

The iPhone 15 series, including standard, Plus, Pro, and Pro Max models, saw significant updates in the Pro models with a new lens, titanium frame, and action button, alongside a switch to USB-C due to EU regulations.

iPhone 16 - September 20, 2024

Apple unveiled the iPhone 16 series in September 2024, featuring faster CPU performance, a customizable action button, and integration of Apple Intelligence. Our review of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro Max details the latest advancements over the previous generation.

When Is the iPhone 17 Coming Out?

Though the iPhone 16 was recently announced, anticipation for the iPhone 17 is already building. While details are scarce, we can expect a release around the same time as the iPhone 16, likely in September 2025.

You can see our guide to all of the biggest iPhone 16 announcements from the event today.

*Looking to dive into more Apple history? Check out our guide to every iPad generation and every Apple Watch generation.*