Home News iPhone Release Dates: A Complete History

iPhone Release Dates: A Complete History

by Caleb Oct 21,2025

The Apple iPhone stands as one of the most groundbreaking innovations of the 21st century. With over 2.3 billion units sold globally, it's safe to say the iPhone has reshaped how we communicate, capture moments, and consume digital content. Since its debut in 2007, Apple has consistently pushed the boundaries of mobile technology. Seventeen years later, the sheer number of iPhone generations can be overwhelming—especially when new models drop annually, sometimes even multiple times a year. Below is a complete chronological list of every iPhone ever released, from the original model all the way up to the latest iPhone 16 in 2024.

iPhone Release History

Upcoming iPhones8

iPhone 16 Pro Max

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How Many iPhone Generations Have There Been?

In total, there have been **24 distinct iPhone generations**. The first iPhone launched in 2007, and since then, Apple has introduced at least one new model each year. This list includes major releases like the Plus or Max variants as separate entries under their respective generation. It also accounts for special editions such as the iPhone SE 2 and iPhone XR as unique models.

How often do you get a new iPhone?Poll graphic

Every iPhone Generation in Order of Release

iPhone – June 29, 2007

Original iPhone

The very first iPhone was a game-changer. Released on June 29, 2007, it combined an iPod, phone, and internet communicator into a single sleek device. Ditching the traditional keypad, Apple introduced a full touchscreen experience that set the standard for smartphones today. With a 3.5-inch display and 2MP camera, this iconic device started a revolution.

iPhone 3G – July 11, 2008

iPhone 3G

The second-generation iPhone brought 3G connectivity for faster data speeds and introduced the App Store—a milestone that changed mobile app development forever.

iPhone 3GS – June 19, 2009

iPhone 3GS

This model upgraded the rear camera to 3MP and offered twice the performance speed of its predecessor. Storage options expanded to accommodate more apps and media.

iPhone 4 – June 24, 2010

iPhone 4

The iPhone 4 introduced FaceTime video calling and featured a 5MP camera with HD video recording and LED flash. It also debuted Apple’s Retina display, offering sharper text and visuals than ever before.

iPhone 4S – October 14, 2011

iPhone 4S

This model launched Siri, Apple’s virtual assistant, which would become a core part of the iOS ecosystem. It also supported 1080p video capture and introduced iCloud and iMessage.

iPhone 5 – September 21, 2012

iPhone 5

The iPhone 5 became the first LTE-capable iPhone, enabling faster downloads and streaming. It also adopted the Lightning port, replacing the older 30-pin connector.

iPhone 5S – September 20, 2013

iPhone 5S

Touch ID made its debut here, allowing users to unlock the phone using fingerprint recognition. The A7 chip powered improved performance and enhanced camera features.

iPhone 5C – September 20, 2013

iPhone 5C

A colorful budget option, the iPhone 5C shared internal specs with the iPhone 5 but came in vibrant plastic shells, making it more accessible to a wider audience.

iPhone 6 – September 19, 2014

iPhone 6

This model marked Apple’s shift to larger screens and introduced Apple Pay via NFC. It also launched in two sizes: iPhone 6 (4.7”) and iPhone 6 Plus (5.5”).

iPhone 6S – September 25, 2015

iPhone 6S

Featuring 3D Touch pressure-sensitive display and 4K video recording, the iPhone 6S added new levels of interactivity and multimedia capability.

iPhone SE (1st Gen) – March 31, 2016

iPhone SE (1st Gen)

The original iPhone SE packed powerful iPhone 6S features into the compact iPhone 5S chassis, appealing to fans of smaller phones and budget-conscious buyers.

iPhone 7 – September 16, 2016

iPhone 7

The iPhone 7 removed the headphone jack, introduced water resistance, and added stereo speakers and a Taptic Engine for haptic feedback. The iPhone 7 Plus also debuted the dual-camera system.

iPhone 8 – September 22, 2017

iPhone 8

This model introduced wireless charging and True Tone display technology, adjusting screen color and brightness based on ambient lighting conditions.

iPhone X – November 3, 2017

iPhone X

A decade after the original iPhone, the iPhone X eliminated the home button and introduced Face ID facial recognition. Its all-screen design influenced future iPhone designs.

iPhone XS – September 21, 2018

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