The Apple iPhone: A Comprehensive History of Every Generation
The iPhone, a 21st-century marvel, has sold over 2.3 billion units globally. With 17 years and numerous models under its belt, tracing the iPhone's evolution can be challenging. This chronological list details every iPhone released, from the original in 2007 to the latest iPhone 16 in 2024.
How Many iPhone Generations Exist?
A total of 24 distinct iPhone generations have been launched. This count includes variations like the Plus and Max models within each main generation, as well as separate entries for models such as the iPhone SE 2 and iPhone XR.
How Often Do You Upgrade?
(Poll options: Every year, Every 2-3 years, Only when my current iPhone stops working)
Every iPhone Generation:
iPhone (June 29, 2007)
The groundbreaking first iPhone combined iPod, phone, and internet capabilities, revolutionizing the smartphone market. Its 3.5-inch display and 2-megapixel camera marked a significant departure from traditional cell phones.
iPhone 3G (July 11, 2008)
The iPhone 3G introduced 3G connectivity and the Apple App Store, opening a new era for mobile app development.
iPhone 3GS (June 19, 2009)
Featuring a 3-megapixel camera and enhanced performance, the iPhone 3GS offered improved image quality and increased app storage capacity.
iPhone 4 (June 24, 2010)
The iPhone 4 introduced FaceTime video calling, a 5-megapixel camera with HD video recording and LED flash, and Apple's first Retina display.
iPhone 4S (October 14, 2011)
The iPhone 4S debuted Siri, Apple's virtual assistant, and offered 1080p video capture with its 8-megapixel camera. iCloud and iMessage also launched with this model.
iPhone 5 (September 21, 2012)
LTE support, improved audio capabilities, and the introduction of the Lightning port were key features of the iPhone 5.
iPhone 5S (September 20, 2013)
Touch ID fingerprint authentication, the A7 processor, and advanced camera technology were highlights of the iPhone 5S.
iPhone 5C (September 20, 2013)
Apple's first budget-friendly iPhone, the 5C, offered vibrant colors and the same hardware as the iPhone 5.
iPhone 6 (September 19, 2014)
A sleeker design, Apple Pay, and the larger-screened iPhone 6 Plus marked a significant design shift.
iPhone 6S (September 25, 2015)
3D Touch pressure-sensitive display technology and 4K video recording capabilities were introduced with the iPhone 6S.
iPhone SE (March 31, 2016)
The iPhone SE (first generation) revived the iPhone 5S design with updated internals.
iPhone 7 (September 16, 2016)
The removal of the headphone jack, water resistance, and a dual-camera system on the iPhone 7 Plus were notable changes.
iPhone 8 (September 22, 2017)
Wireless charging, a glass back, and the True Tone display were key improvements in the iPhone 8.
iPhone X (November 3, 2017)
The iPhone X featured a nearly bezel-less design, Face ID facial recognition, and an edge-to-edge display.
iPhone XS (September 21, 2018)
A refined version of the iPhone X, the XS added dual-SIM support.
iPhone XR (October 26, 2018)
A more affordable option, the iPhone XR offered an LCD display and single rear camera.
iPhone 11 (September 20, 2019)
The iPhone 11 featured a larger display, an ultrawide camera, and the introduction of Pro models.
iPhone SE (2nd Gen) (April 24, 2020)
The second-generation iPhone SE offered improved performance and a larger display.
iPhone 12 (October 23, 2020)
MagSafe magnetic charging, a Super Retina XDR display, and Ceramic Shield durability were key features of the iPhone 12.
iPhone 13 (September 24, 2021)
Improved battery life, Cinematic Mode video recording, and ProRes video on Pro models were highlights of the iPhone 13.
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)
Emergency SOS via satellite and camera improvements were key features of the iPhone 14.
iPhone 15 (September 22, 2023)
The iPhone 15 series featured USB-C port and other upgrades, particularly in Pro models.
iPhone 16 (September 20, 2024)
The latest iPhone generation boasts faster processing, a customizable action button, and Apple Intelligence integration.
Looking Ahead to the iPhone 17:
While details are scarce, the iPhone 17 is expected around September 2025.
This comprehensive overview provides a detailed look at the evolution of the Apple iPhone across its various generations.
