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 under its belt, tracing the iPhone's evolution can be challenging. This chronological list details every iPhone model, from the groundbreaking original to the latest iPhone 16, clarifying the numerous iterations and model variations.

Total iPhone Generations: 24

This count includes distinct models like the Plus and Max series alongside mainline generations, and also separately lists new models such as the iPhone SE 2 and iPhone XR.

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Every iPhone Generation:

1. iPhone – June 29, 2007

The original iPhone revolutionized the smartphone market, combining iPod, phone, and internet capabilities into a sleek, keyboard-less design with a 3.5-inch display and a 2-megapixel camera.

2. iPhone 3G – July 11, 2008

Introduced 3G connectivity and the groundbreaking App Store.

3. iPhone 3GS – June 19, 2009

Boasted an upgraded 3-megapixel camera and improved performance.

4. iPhone 4 – June 24, 2010

Showcased FaceTime video calling, a 5-megapixel camera with LED flash, and Apple's first Retina display.

5. iPhone 4S – October 14, 2011

Debuting Siri, iCloud, and iMessage, along with 1080p video recording.

6. iPhone 5 – September 21, 2012

Introduced LTE support, improved audio, and the Lightning port.

7. iPhone 5S – September 20, 2013

Featured Touch ID fingerprint authentication and the A7 processor.

8. iPhone 5C – September 20, 2013

Apple's first budget-friendly iPhone, available in multiple colors.

9. iPhone 6 – September 19, 2014

Introduced a new slimmer design and Apple Pay.

10. iPhone 6S – September 25, 2015

Featured 3D Touch and 4K video recording.

11. iPhone SE – March 31, 2016

A compact iPhone with updated features from the iPhone 6S.

12. iPhone 7 – September 16, 2016

Removed the headphone jack, added water resistance, and introduced a dual-camera system on the Plus model.

13. iPhone 8 – September 22, 2017

Added wireless charging and a True Tone display.

14. iPhone X – November 3, 2017

A revolutionary design with an edge-to-edge display and Face ID.

15. iPhone XS – September 21, 2018

Minor improvements over the iPhone X, including a dual-SIM tray.

16. iPhone XR – October 26, 2018

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

17. iPhone 11 – September 20, 2019

Larger screen size, Ultra Wide camera, and the introduction of Pro models.

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

Significant improvements over the first SE, including a faster processor and larger screen.

19. iPhone 12 – October 23, 2020

Introduced MagSafe, Super Retina XDR display, and Ceramic Shield.

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

Returned the home button and added 5G connectivity.

22. iPhone 14 – September 16, 2022

Featured Emergency SOS via satellite and camera improvements.

23. iPhone 15 – September 22, 2023

Significant Pro model upgrades, including a new lens, titanium frame, and USB-C port.

24. iPhone 16 – September 20, 2024

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

Looking Ahead to the iPhone 17:

While details are scarce, the iPhone 17 is anticipated around September 2025.

This comprehensive overview provides a detailed look at the iPhone's remarkable journey.