The Apple iPhone, a 21st-century marvel, has sold over 2.3 billion units globally, solidifying its place as a revolutionary device. With 17 years and numerous models under its belt, tracing the iPhone's evolution can be challenging. This comprehensive timeline details every iPhone release, from 2007 to 2024, including the latest iPhone 16, showcasing the remarkable journey of this iconic product.
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How Many iPhone Generations Have There Been?
A total of 24 distinct iPhone generations have been released. Beginning with the original iPhone in 2007, at least one new model has debuted annually. This count includes variations like the Plus and Max series within each mainline generation, as well as distinct models such as the iPhone SE 2 and iPhone XR.
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Every iPhone Generation in Order of Release
iPhone - June 29, 2007
Launched on June 29, 2007, the groundbreaking first iPhone seamlessly integrated iPod, phone, and internet capabilities, marking a pivotal moment in the smartphone industry. Its 3.5-inch display and 2-megapixel camera, while modest by today's standards, represent a significant leap forward in mobile technology.
iPhone 3G - July 11, 2008
The iPhone 3G introduced 3G connectivity, dramatically improving data speeds. More importantly, it debuted the Apple App Store, revolutionizing mobile app development and user experience.
iPhone 3GS - June 19, 2009
The iPhone 3GS boasted an upgraded 3-megapixel camera, enhancing image quality. Increased storage options also catered to the growing number of apps available on the App Store. Apple also claimed a significant performance boost compared to its predecessor.
iPhone 4 - June 24, 2010
FaceTime, a groundbreaking video calling feature, debuted on the iPhone 4. A 5-megapixel camera enabled HD video recording for the first time, complemented by an LED flash. The iPhone 4 also introduced Apple's Retina display, significantly improving text readability.
iPhone 4S - October 14, 2011
The iPhone 4S is best known for introducing Siri, Apple's virtual assistant, which has since become a core component of the Apple ecosystem. An 8-megapixel camera enabled 1080p video recording. Key software updates included iCloud and iMessage.
iPhone 5 - September 21, 2012
The iPhone 5 introduced LTE support, enabling faster data speeds for larger files and content. Improved microphones enhanced audio quality for calls and FaceTime. The device also marked the transition to the Lightning port.
iPhone 5S - September 20, 2013
Touch ID, fingerprint authentication technology, made its debut on the iPhone 5S, becoming a standard feature until the iPhone X. The A7 processor and advanced camera technologies further enhanced performance and capabilities.
iPhone 5C - September 20, 2013
The iPhone 5C was Apple's first budget-friendly option, offering vibrant colors and the same internal hardware as the iPhone 5 at a lower price point.
iPhone 6 - September 19, 2014
The iPhone 6 featured a sleeker design and introduced Apple Pay, utilizing NFC technology for contactless payments. This generation also introduced multiple models, with the iPhone 6 Plus offering a larger 5.5-inch display.
iPhone 6S - September 25, 2015
3D Touch, a pressure-sensitive display technology, was the highlight of the iPhone 6S, enabling new gestures and commands. It also featured 4K video recording capabilities.
iPhone SE - March 31, 2016
The first iPhone SE revived the iPhone 5S design with updated features from the iPhone 6S, offering a compact and affordable option.
iPhone 7 - September 16, 2016
The iPhone 7 controversially removed the headphone jack, shifting audio output to Bluetooth or the Lightning port. It also added water resistance and a Taptic Engine for haptic feedback. The iPhone 7 Plus introduced a dual-camera system.
iPhone 8 - September 22, 2017
The iPhone 8 retained a similar design to the iPhone 7 but added wireless charging via a glass back panel and introduced the True Tone display, which adjusts color and brightness based on ambient lighting.
iPhone X - November 3, 2017
The iPhone X marked a significant design change, removing the home button and featuring an edge-to-edge display. Face ID, facial recognition technology, replaced Touch ID for device unlocking.
iPhone XS - September 21, 2018
The iPhone XS offered incremental improvements over the iPhone X, notably including a dual-SIM tray.
iPhone XR - October 26, 2018
The iPhone XR served as a more affordable option in 2018, using an LCD display and a single rear camera.
iPhone 11 - September 20, 2019
The iPhone 11 featured a larger 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display and an ultrawide camera. This generation also introduced Pro models with enhanced features.
iPhone SE (2nd Gen) - April 24, 2020
The second-generation iPhone SE offered a significant performance upgrade with the A13 Bionic chip, a larger display, and Haptic Touch.
iPhone 12 - October 23, 2020
The iPhone 12 introduced MagSafe for magnetically attaching accessories and chargers, a Super Retina XDR display, and a Ceramic Shield for improved durability.
iPhone 13 - September 24, 2021
The iPhone 13 boasted improved battery life, Cinematic Mode for video recording, and ProRes video on Pro models.
iPhone SE (3rd Gen) - March 18, 2022
The third-generation iPhone SE brought back the home button and included 5G connectivity.
iPhone 14 - September 16, 2022
The iPhone 14 introduced Emergency SOS via satellite and upgraded camera systems.
iPhone 15 - September 22, 2023
The iPhone 15 transitioned to a USB-C port and featured significant upgrades to the Pro models.
iPhone 16 - September 20, 2024
The iPhone 16 boasts faster CPU performance, a customizable action button, and Apple Intelligence integration.
In our review of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro Max, we detailed all of the differences the latest phones received over the last generation.
When Is the iPhone 17 Coming Out?
While the iPhone 16 is recent, anticipation for the iPhone 17 is already building. While details are scarce, a September 2025 release, mirroring previous launch cycles, is highly probable.
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.*
