Every iPhone Generation: A Full History of Release Dates

The Apple iPhone: A Comprehensive History of Every Model

The iPhone, a 21st-century marvel, has sold over 2.3 billion units globally. With 17 years and numerous releases, tracking every iPhone generation can be challenging. This chronological list details each iPhone, from the original to the latest iPhone 16, clarifying the evolution of this revolutionary device.

How Many iPhone Generations Exist?

A total of 24 distinct iPhone generations have been released. This count includes variations like the Plus and Max models within a main generation, as well as distinct models such as the iPhone SE and iPhone XR.

Every iPhone Generation: A Release Timeline

Below is a detailed look at each iPhone generation, highlighting key features and innovations:

• iPhone (June 29, 2007): The groundbreaking original, combining 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): Featured FaceTime video calling, a 5MP camera with LED flash, and the first Retina display.

• iPhone 4S (October 14, 2011): Introduced Siri, 1080p video recording (8MP camera), iCloud, and iMessage.

• iPhone 5 (September 21, 2012): Supported LTE, featured improved audio, and introduced the Lightning port.

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

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

• iPhone 6 (September 19, 2014): Introduced a sleeker design and Apple Pay. The iPhone 6 Plus offered a larger 5.5-inch screen.

• iPhone 6S (September 25, 2015): Featured 3D Touch, 4K video recording, and improved performance.

• iPhone SE (March 31, 2016): A compact iPhone with iPhone 6S features at a lower price point.

• 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): Added wireless charging and a True Tone display.

• iPhone X (November 3, 2017): A revolutionary design with an edge-to-edge display and Face ID.

• iPhone XS (September 21, 2018): A refined iPhone X with minor improvements, including dual-SIM support.

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

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

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

• iPhone 12 (October 23, 2020): Introduced MagSafe, a 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): Brought back the home button, added 5G, and included features from newer models.

• iPhone 14 (September 16, 2022): Introduced Emergency SOS via satellite and improved camera systems.

• iPhone 15 (September 22, 2023): Switched to USB-C, significant Pro model upgrades including a new lens and titanium frame.

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

Looking Ahead to the iPhone 17

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

Learn more about the iPhone 16 and other Apple devices in our comprehensive guides.