Every iPhone Generation: A Full History of Release Dates

The Apple iPhone, a 21st-century marvel, has sold over 2.3 billion units globally, solidifying its place as a revolutionary device. With 17 years and numerous releases under its belt, keeping track of every iPhone generation can be challenging. This comprehensive timeline details each iPhone model released chronologically, from 2007 to 2024, including variations like the Plus and Max series, as well as distinct models such as the iPhone SE and iPhone XR.

iPhone 16 Pro Max

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How Many iPhone Generations Have There Been?

A total of 24 distinct iPhone generations have graced the market since the original iPhone's debut in 2007. Each year has seen at least one new model, with this count encompassing variations within each main generation.

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Every iPhone Generation in Chronological Order

iPhone - June 29, 2007

The groundbreaking first iPhone, launched on June 29, 2007, seamlessly integrated iPod, phone, and internet capabilities, revolutionizing the smartphone landscape. Its 3.5-inch display and 2-megapixel camera marked a significant departure from traditional phones.

iPhone 3G - July 11, 2008

iPhone 3GS - June 19, 2009

Featuring an upgraded 3-megapixel camera and enhanced storage, the iPhone 3GS offered improved image quality and performance, doubling the speed of its predecessor.

iPhone 4 - June 24, 2010

The iPhone 4 introduced FaceTime for video calling, a 5-megapixel camera with HD video recording and LED flash, and Apple's first Retina display for sharper visuals.

iPhone 4S - October 14, 2011

The iPhone 4S debuted Siri, Apple's virtual assistant, and boasted 1080p video capture from its 8-megapixel camera. iCloud and iMessage also launched with this model.

iPhone 5 - September 21, 2012

LTE connectivity, improved audio with enhanced microphones, and the introduction of the Lightning port were key features of the iPhone 5.

iPhone 5S - September 20, 2013

Touch ID fingerprint unlocking, the A7 processor, and advanced camera technologies marked the iPhone 5S.

iPhone 5C - September 20, 2013

Apple's first budget-friendly iPhone, the 5C, offered vibrant color options and the same internal hardware as the iPhone 5.

iPhone 6 - September 19, 2014

A sleeker design, Apple Pay via NFC technology, and the introduction of the larger-screened iPhone 6 Plus were highlights of this generation.

iPhone 6S - September 25, 2015

3D Touch pressure-sensitive technology and 4K video recording capabilities were key additions to the iPhone 6S.

iPhone SE - March 31, 2016

The first iPhone SE revived the iPhone 5S design with updated features like 4K video recording.

iPhone 7 - September 16, 2016

The removal of the headphone jack, water resistance, and the 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 introduced with the iPhone 8.

iPhone X - November 3, 2017

The iPhone X marked a significant design shift, removing the home button and introducing Face ID facial recognition.

iPhone XS - September 21, 2018

Minor improvements over the iPhone X, including 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

A larger 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display and an ultrawide camera were key features.

iPhone SE (2nd Gen) - April 24, 2020

The second-generation iPhone SE offered improved performance with the A13 Bionic chip and a larger display.

iPhone 12 - October 23, 2020

MagSafe magnetic charging and a Ceramic Shield front cover were introduced.

iPhone 13 - September 24, 2021

Significant battery life improvements and new camera features like Cinematic mode.

iPhone SE (3rd Gen) - March 18, 2022

The return of the home button and 5G connectivity.

iPhone 14 - September 16, 2022

Emergency SOS via satellite and upgraded camera systems.

iPhone 15 - September 22, 2023

USB-C port, titanium frame (Pro models), and a new action button (Pro models).

iPhone 16 - September 20, 2024

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

Our iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro Max review details the latest generation's improvements. For more Apple history, explore our guides on every iPad and Apple Watch generation.

When Is the iPhone 17 Coming Out?

While the iPhone 16 is fresh, anticipation for the iPhone 17 is already building. While details are scarce, a September 2025 release is likely.

*See our guide to all major iPhone 16 announcements.*