iPhone History: Every Model's Release Date

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 releases under its belt, keeping track of every iPhone generation can be challenging. This comprehensive timeline details each iPhone model released chronologically, from 2007 to 2024, including variations like Plus, Max, and SE models.

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How Many iPhone Generations Have There Been?

A total of 24 distinct iPhone generations have been released since the first iPhone debuted in 2007. Each year has seen at least one new model, with this count encompassing variations like the Plus and Max series, as well as distinct models such as the iPhone SE 2 and iPhone XR.

How often do you get a new iPhone?

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

Answer See Results

Every iPhone Generation in Order of Release

iPhone - June 29, 2007

The groundbreaking first iPhone, released on June 29, 2007, combined iPod, phone, and internet capabilities, marking a significant leap in the smartphone market. Its 3.5-inch display and 2-megapixel camera, while seemingly basic by today's standards, revolutionized technology.

iPhone 3G - July 11, 2008

The iPhone 3G introduced 3G connectivity for faster data speeds and, crucially, the Apple App Store, opening a world of developer-created apps.

iPhone 3GS - June 19, 2009

The iPhone 3GS boasted a 3-megapixel camera for improved image quality and offered increased storage options to accommodate the growing App Store library. Performance was also significantly enhanced.

iPhone 4 - June 24, 2010

FaceTime video calling debuted on the iPhone 4, along with a 5-megapixel camera capable of HD video recording and an LED flash. The introduction of Apple's first Retina display significantly improved text readability.

iPhone 4S - October 14, 2011

The iPhone 4S is best known for introducing Siri, the virtual assistant that would become a cornerstone of the Apple ecosystem. It also featured 1080p video capture and debuted key software updates like iCloud and iMessage.

iPhone 5 - September 21, 2012

LTE support arrived with the iPhone 5, enabling faster data access for larger files and content. Improved microphones enhanced audio quality, and the Lightning port replaced the older 30-pin connector.

iPhone 5S - September 20, 2013

Touch ID, fingerprint unlocking technology, made its debut on the iPhone 5S, becoming a standard feature in subsequent models. The A7 processor and enhanced camera technologies further boosted performance and capabilities.

iPhone 5C - September 20, 2013

The iPhone 5C was Apple's first budget-friendly option, featuring vibrant colors and the same internal hardware as the iPhone 5, offering a more affordable entry point into the iPhone ecosystem.

iPhone 6 - September 19, 2014

The iPhone 6 sported a slimmer design and introduced Apple Pay, utilizing NFC technology for contactless payments. This generation also marked the introduction of multiple models, with the iPhone 6 Plus offering a larger screen.

iPhone 6S - September 25, 2015

3D Touch, allowing for pressure-sensitive screen interactions, was a key feature of the iPhone 6S. It also marked the first iPhone with 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, such as 4K video recording, at a lower price point.

iPhone 7 - September 16, 2016

The iPhone 7 controversially removed the headphone jack, shifting audio output to Bluetooth or the Lightning port. It added water resistance and a Taptic Engine-enabled home button.

iPhone 8 - September 22, 2017

The iPhone 8 introduced wireless charging via a glass back panel and 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 shift, removing the home button and featuring an almost all-screen design. Face ID, facial recognition technology, replaced Touch ID for unlocking the device.

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 provided a more affordable alternative to the iPhone XS, using an LCD display and a single rear camera.

iPhone 11 - September 20, 2019

The iPhone 11 increased the base model screen size to 6.1 inches and introduced a new Ultra Wide camera. This generation also launched the Pro models with enhanced features.

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

The second-generation iPhone SE featured a significant performance upgrade with the A13 Bionic chip, a larger screen, and Haptic Touch.

iPhone 12 - October 23, 2020

MagSafe magnetic charging and accessories were introduced with the iPhone 12, along with a Super Retina XDR display and a more durable Ceramic Shield.

iPhone 13 - September 24, 2021

The iPhone 13 boasted improved battery life, Cinematic Mode for video recording, and ProRes video on the 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

Emergency SOS via satellite and upgraded camera systems were key features of the iPhone 14.

iPhone 15 - September 22, 2023

The iPhone 15 series featured notable changes in the Pro models, including a new lens, titanium frame, action button, and the transition to USB-C.

iPhone 16 - September 20, 2024

The latest iPhone generation boasts faster CPU performance, a customizable action button, and integrated Apple Intelligence.

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 specifics are scarce, a September 2025 release is likely, mirroring the release schedule of previous generations.

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.*