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 countless iterations, keeping track of every iPhone generation can be challenging. This comprehensive timeline details each iPhone release, from 2007 to 2024, including the latest iPhone 16, highlighting key features and innovations along the way.

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How Many iPhone Generations Have There Been?

There have been a total of 24 different iPhone generations. Since the first iPhone in 2007, at least one new model has launched annually. This count includes variations like the Plus or Max series within each main generation, as well as distinct models such as the iPhone SE 2 and iPhone XR.

How often do you get a new iPhone?

Every yearEvery 2-3 yearsOnly when my current iPhone stops working

Answer
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Every iPhone Generation in Order of Release

iPhone - June 29, 2007

The groundbreaking first iPhone, released June 29, 2007, 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 for faster data speeds and the revolutionary App Store, opening a world of developer-created apps.

iPhone 3GS - June 19, 2009

The iPhone 3GS boasted a 3-megapixel camera for improved image quality, enhanced storage options, and claimed twice the speed of its predecessor.

iPhone 4 - June 24, 2010

The iPhone 4 debuted FaceTime for 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 is best known for introducing Siri, Apple's virtual assistant, along with 1080p video capture from its 8-megapixel camera. iCloud and iMessage also debuted on this model.

iPhone 5 - September 21, 2012

The iPhone 5 supported LTE technology, improved audio with enhanced microphones, and introduced the Lightning port.

iPhone 5S - September 20, 2013

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

iPhone 5C - September 20, 2013

Apple's first budget-friendly iPhone, the 5C, came in vibrant colors and used the same hardware as the iPhone 5.

iPhone 6 - September 19, 2014

The iPhone 6 featured a slimmer design, Apple Pay (powered by NFC), and introduced multiple models with the larger iPhone 6 Plus.

iPhone 6S - September 25, 2015

The iPhone 6S introduced 3D Touch pressure-sensitive technology and 4K video recording capabilities.

iPhone SE - March 31, 2016

The first iPhone SE revived the iPhone 5S design with updated features like 4K video recording from the iPhone 6S at a lower price point.

iPhone 7 - September 16, 2016

The iPhone 7 controversially removed the headphone jack, added water resistance, a Taptic Engine home button, and a dual-camera system on the iPhone 7 Plus.

iPhone 8 - September 22, 2017

The iPhone 8 added wireless charging, a glass back, and the True Tone display.

iPhone X - November 3, 2017

The iPhone X eliminated the home button, featuring an all-screen design and Face ID facial recognition.

iPhone XS - September 21, 2018

The iPhone XS offered minor improvements over the iPhone X, notably adding a dual-SIM tray.

iPhone XR - October 26, 2018

The iPhone XR was a more affordable option with an LCD display and single rear camera.

iPhone 11 - September 20, 2019

The iPhone 11 increased the base model screen size to 6.1 inches, featured a Liquid Retina display, and introduced an Ultra Wide camera. It also marked the beginning of the Pro models.

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

The second-generation iPhone SE improved upon the original with the A13 Bionic chip, a larger 4.7-inch screen, and Haptic Touch.

iPhone 12 - October 23, 2020

The iPhone 12 introduced MagSafe magnetic charging, a Super Retina XDR display, and Ceramic Shield for improved durability.

iPhone 13 - September 24, 2021

The iPhone 13 significantly improved battery life, introduced Cinematic mode for video recording, and ProRes video on Pro models.

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

The third-generation iPhone SE brought back the home button, added 5G connectivity, and included features like Night mode and Photographic Styles.

iPhone 14 - September 16, 2022

The iPhone 14 introduced Emergency SOS via satellite, improved camera systems, and the return of the Plus model.

iPhone 15 - September 22, 2023

The iPhone 15 line features Pro models with a new telephoto lens, titanium frame, action button, and a USB-C port.

iPhone 16 - September 20, 2024

The iPhone 16 boasts faster CPU performance, a customizable action button, and integrated Apple Intelligence. Our review details the differences from the iPhone 15.

When Is the iPhone 17 Coming Out?

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

*See our guide to all the major iPhone 16 announcements. For more Apple history, explore our guides to every iPad and Apple Watch generation.*