Every iPhone Generation: A Full History of Release Dates

The Apple iPhone: A Comprehensive History of Every Generation

The iPhone, a 21st-century marvel, boasts over 2.3 billion units sold globally. Its revolutionary design has redefined the smartphone landscape. With 17 years and numerous models under its belt, let's explore the complete chronological history of every iPhone released, from 2007 to 2024.

A Total of 24 iPhone Generations

To date, there have been 24 distinct iPhone generations. This includes variations like the Plus and Max series, as well as distinct models such as the iPhone SE and iPhone XR. Each year, since the original 2007 release, has seen at least one new iPhone model.

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Every iPhone Generation:

iPhone (June 29, 2007)

The groundbreaking original iPhone, launched on June 29, 2007, seamlessly integrated iPod, phone, and internet capabilities. Its innovative touchscreen interface, replacing the traditional keypad, marked a significant leap in smartphone technology. Featuring a 3.5-inch display and a 2-megapixel camera, it laid the foundation for the modern smartphone era.

iPhone 3G (July 11, 2008)

The iPhone 3G introduced 3G connectivity, significantly boosting data speeds. More importantly, it debuted the App Store, revolutionizing mobile app development and user experience.

iPhone 3GS (June 19, 2009)

The iPhone 3GS featured an upgraded 3-megapixel camera and doubled the processing speed of its predecessor. Increased storage options further enhanced the App Store experience.

iPhone 4 (June 24, 2010)

The iPhone 4 introduced FaceTime for video calling and a 5-megapixel camera with HD video recording and LED flash. It also boasted Apple's first Retina display, enhancing text readability.

iPhone 4S (October 14, 2011)

The iPhone 4S is best remembered for the introduction of Siri, Apple's virtual assistant. It also featured an 8-megapixel camera with 1080p video recording and launched iCloud and iMessage.

iPhone 5 (September 21, 2012)

The iPhone 5 supported LTE, significantly improving data speeds. Improved audio capabilities and the introduction of the Lightning port rounded out its features.

iPhone 5S (September 20, 2013)

The iPhone 5S introduced Touch ID fingerprint authentication, a feature that became a staple for several generations. It also featured the A7 processor and enhanced camera technology.

iPhone 5C (September 20, 2013)

The iPhone 5C was Apple's first budget-friendly option, offering the same internal hardware as the iPhone 5 but in a range of vibrant colors.

iPhone 6 (September 19, 2014)

The iPhone 6 featured a sleeker design and introduced Apple Pay via NFC technology. It also marked the beginning of multiple models per generation, with the larger iPhone 6 Plus.

iPhone 6S (September 25, 2015)

The iPhone 6S introduced 3D Touch, allowing for pressure-sensitive commands, and 4K video recording capabilities.

iPhone SE (March 31, 2016)

The first iPhone SE revived the iPhone 5S design with updated internals, offering a compact and affordable option.

iPhone 7 (September 16, 2016)

The iPhone 7 controversially removed the headphone jack, shifting to Bluetooth or Lightning audio. It also added water resistance and a Taptic Engine home button. The iPhone 7 Plus introduced a dual-camera system.

iPhone 8 (September 22, 2017)

The iPhone 8 added wireless charging and a 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 for an all-screen design and introducing Face ID facial recognition.

iPhone XS (September 21, 2018)

The iPhone XS offered incremental improvements over the iPhone X, notably adding dual-SIM support.

iPhone XR (October 26, 2018)

The iPhone XR provided a more affordable option with an LCD display and single rear camera.

iPhone 11 (September 20, 2019)

The iPhone 11 featured a larger 6.1-inch display and an ultrawide camera. It also introduced Pro models with enhanced features.

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

The second-generation iPhone SE offered significant performance improvements with the A13 Bionic chip and a larger display.

iPhone 12 (October 23, 2020)

The iPhone 12 introduced MagSafe magnetic charging and a Ceramic Shield for enhanced durability.

iPhone 13 (September 24, 2021)

The iPhone 13 boasted improved battery life and new photographic features like Cinematic Mode. Pro models featured ProRes video.

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

The third-generation iPhone SE brought back the home button and added 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 shifted to USB-C charging and brought notable updates to the Pro models.

iPhone 16 (September 20, 2024)

The latest iPhone 16 generation features enhanced CPU performance, a customizable action button, and Apple Intelligence integration.

Looking Ahead to the iPhone 17

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

This comprehensive overview covers every iPhone generation, highlighting key features and innovations that have shaped the mobile technology landscape.