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 impact on the tech landscape is undeniable. With 17 years and numerous releases under its belt, tracing the iPhone's evolution can be challenging. This chronological list details every iPhone model, from 2007 to the latest iPhone 16, clarifying the lineage of this iconic device.

How Many iPhone Generations Exist?

A total of 24 distinct iPhone generations have been released. Since the 2007 debut, at least one new model has launched annually. This count includes variations like Plus and Max models within each core generation, as well as distinct entries such as the iPhone SE and iPhone XR.

Every iPhone Generation: A Chronological Overview

• iPhone (June 29, 2007): The groundbreaking original, merging iPod, phone, and internet capabilities. Its 3.5-inch display and 2MP camera revolutionized the smartphone market.

• iPhone 3G (July 11, 2008): Introduced 3G connectivity and the revolutionary App Store.

• iPhone 3GS (June 19, 2009): Boasted a 3MP camera and double the processing speed of its predecessor.

• iPhone 4 (June 24, 2010): Introduced FaceTime video calling, a 5MP camera with LED flash, and the first Retina display.

• iPhone 4S (October 14, 2011): Debuting Siri, the virtual assistant, alongside 1080p video recording and iCloud integration.

• iPhone 5 (September 21, 2012): Featured LTE support, improved audio, and the introduction of the Lightning port.

• iPhone 5S (September 20, 2013): Introduced Touch ID fingerprint authentication, the A7 processor, and enhanced camera technology.

• iPhone 5C (September 20, 2013): Apple's first budget-friendly option, offering vibrant colors and iPhone 5 hardware.

• iPhone 6 (September 19, 2014): Introduced a sleeker design and Apple Pay via NFC technology. Also marked the introduction of the larger iPhone 6 Plus.

• iPhone 6S (September 25, 2015): Featured 3D Touch pressure-sensitive technology and 4K video recording.

• iPhone SE (March 31, 2016): A compact iPhone with iPhone 6S features in an iPhone 5S design.

• iPhone 7 (September 16, 2016): Removed the headphone jack, added water resistance, and introduced a dual-camera system on the iPhone 7 Plus.

• iPhone 8 (September 22, 2017): Featured wireless charging and a True Tone display.

• iPhone X (November 3, 2017): A revolutionary design with an edge-to-edge display, Face ID, and a significant departure from previous models.

• iPhone XS (September 21, 2018): A refinement of the iPhone X with minor improvements and dual-SIM support.

• iPhone XR (October 26, 2018): A more affordable option with an LCD display and single rear camera.

• iPhone 11 (September 20, 2019): Featured a larger 6.1-inch display and an ultrawide camera. Introduced Pro models with triple-camera systems.

• iPhone SE (2nd Gen) (April 24, 2020): A significant upgrade over the first SE, with an A13 Bionic chip, larger display, and Haptic Touch.

• iPhone 12 (October 23, 2020): Introduced MagSafe, Super Retina XDR display, and Ceramic Shield.

• iPhone 13 (September 24, 2021): Improved battery life, Cinematic Mode, and ProRes video on Pro models.

• iPhone SE (3rd Gen) (March 18, 2022): Returned to the home button design, added 5G connectivity, and included several photographic features.

• iPhone 14 (September 16, 2022): Emergency SOS via satellite, upgraded camera system, and the return of the Plus model.

• iPhone 15 (September 22, 2023): Pro models featured a new telephoto lens, titanium frame, and action button. Switched to USB-C charging.

• iPhone 16 (September 20, 2024): Faster CPU, customizable action button, and integration of Apple Intelligence.

Looking Ahead to the iPhone 17

While the iPhone 16 is fresh, anticipation for the iPhone 17 is already building. A September 2025 release is likely, mirroring previous launch cycles.

This comprehensive overview provides a detailed history of every iPhone generation, highlighting key features and innovations that have shaped the smartphone landscape.