Every iPhone Generation: A Full History of Release Dates

The Apple iPhone: A Comprehensive History of Every Generation

The iPhone, a 21st-century marvel, has sold over 2.3 billion units globally. With 17 years and numerous models under its belt, tracing the iPhone's evolution can be a challenge. This chronological list details every iPhone released, from the original in 2007 to the latest iPhone 16 in 2024.

Total iPhone Generations: 24

This count includes variations like Plus and Max models within each main generation, and also separately lists models like the iPhone SE and iPhone XR.

How Often Do You Upgrade?

(Poll options: Every year, Every 2-3 years, Only when my current iPhone stops working)

Every iPhone Generation:

1. iPhone (June 29, 2007)

The groundbreaking original iPhone combined iPod, phone, and internet capabilities, revolutionizing the smartphone market. Its 3.5-inch display and 2MP camera were revolutionary for their time.

2. iPhone 3G (July 11, 2008)

The iPhone 3G introduced 3G connectivity and the App Store, opening up a world of mobile applications.

3. iPhone 3GS (June 19, 2009)

Boasting a 3MP camera and improved performance, the iPhone 3GS enhanced image quality and app capabilities.

4. iPhone 4 (June 24, 2010)

FaceTime video calling, a 5MP camera with LED flash, and the first Retina display were key features of the iPhone 4.

5. iPhone 4S (October 14, 2011)

The debut of Siri, the virtual assistant, marked a significant milestone for the iPhone 4S. It also featured 1080p video recording.

6. iPhone 5 (September 21, 2012)

LTE support, improved audio, and the introduction of the Lightning port were defining aspects of the iPhone 5.

7. iPhone 5S (September 20, 2013)

Touch ID fingerprint unlocking, the A7 processor, and enhanced camera technology were highlights of the iPhone 5S.

8. iPhone 5C (September 20, 2013)

Apple's first budget-friendly option, the iPhone 5C, offered vibrant colors and the same hardware as the iPhone 5.

9. iPhone 6 (September 19, 2014)

A sleeker design, Apple Pay, and the introduction of the larger iPhone 6 Plus marked a significant design shift.

10. iPhone 6S (September 25, 2015)

3D Touch pressure-sensitive display technology and 4K video recording were key features of the iPhone 6S.

11. iPhone SE (March 31, 2016)

A compact device with the power of the iPhone 6S, the original iPhone SE offered a compelling value proposition.

12. iPhone 7 (September 16, 2016)

The removal of the headphone jack, water resistance, and the dual-camera system on the iPhone 7 Plus were notable changes.

13. iPhone 8 (September 22, 2017)

Wireless charging, a glass back, and the True Tone display were significant upgrades on the iPhone 8.

14. iPhone X (November 3, 2017)

A radical redesign featuring an edge-to-edge display and Face ID facial recognition, the iPhone X redefined iPhone design.

15. iPhone XS (September 21, 2018)

A refined version of the iPhone X with minor improvements, including dual-SIM support.

16. iPhone XR (October 26, 2018)

A more affordable option with an LCD display and single rear camera.

17. iPhone 11 (September 20, 2019)

A larger screen, Ultra Wide camera, and the introduction of Pro models with triple-camera systems.

18. iPhone SE (2nd Gen) (April 24, 2020)

Significant performance improvements with the A13 Bionic chip, a larger screen, and Haptic Touch.

19. iPhone 12 (October 23, 2020)

MagSafe magnetic charging, Super Retina XDR display, and Ceramic Shield durability enhancements.

20. iPhone 13 (September 24, 2021)

Improved battery life, Cinematic Mode, and ProRes video on Pro models.

21. iPhone SE (3rd Gen) (March 18, 2022)

The return of the home button, 5G connectivity, and updated camera features.

22. iPhone 14 (September 16, 2022)

Emergency SOS via satellite, upgraded camera systems, and the return of the Plus model.

23. iPhone 15 (September 22, 2023)

Pro models featuring a new lens, titanium frame, and action button; USB-C port.

24. iPhone 16 (September 20, 2024)

Faster CPU, customizable action button, and Apple Intelligence integration.

iPhone 17 Release Expectations:

While the iPhone 16 is new, anticipation for the iPhone 17 is already building. A September 2025 release is likely.