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 a challenge. This comprehensive chronological list covers every iPhone model, from the original to the latest iPhone 16, highlighting key features and innovations along the way.

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How Many iPhone Generations Have There Been?

A total of 24 distinct iPhone generations have graced the market since 2007. This count includes variations like the Plus and Max models, as well as distinct releases such as the iPhone SE and iPhone XR.

How Often Do You Upgrade Your iPhone?

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

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Every iPhone Generation in Order of Release

iPhone - June 29, 2007

The groundbreaking original 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 cell phones.

iPhone 3G - July 11, 2008

The iPhone 3G introduced 3G connectivity, significantly boosting data speeds, and launched the App Store, opening a world of developer-created apps.

iPhone 3GS - June 19, 2009

Boasting a 3-megapixel camera and enhanced performance, the iPhone 3GS improved image quality and offered increased storage for more apps.

iPhone 4 - June 24, 2010

The iPhone 4 debuted FaceTime for video calls, 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 introduced Siri, Apple's virtual assistant, along with 1080p video recording and features like iCloud and iMessage.

iPhone 5 - September 21, 2012

LTE support, improved audio, 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 enhanced camera technology marked the iPhone 5S.

iPhone 5C - September 20, 2013

The iPhone 5C offered a more affordable option with vibrant colors and the same internal hardware as the iPhone 5.

iPhone 6 - September 19, 2014

A sleeker design, Apple Pay, and the introduction of the larger iPhone 6 Plus defined the iPhone 6 generation.

iPhone 6S - September 25, 2015

3D Touch pressure-sensitive display technology and 4K video recording were key features of 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 iPhone 7 controversially removed the headphone jack, added water resistance, and introduced a dual-camera system on the iPhone 7 Plus.

iPhone 8 - September 22, 2017

Wireless charging, a glass back, and the True Tone display were highlights of the iPhone 8.

iPhone X - November 3, 2017

The iPhone X eliminated the home button, introduced Face ID, and featured an edge-to-edge display.

iPhone XS - September 21, 2018

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

iPhone XR - October 26, 2018

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

iPhone 11 - September 20, 2019

The iPhone 11 featured a larger 6.1-inch display, an ultrawide camera, and introduced Pro models with enhanced features.

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

The second-generation iPhone SE offered a significant performance boost with the A13 Bionic chip, a larger display, and Haptic Touch.

iPhone 12 - October 23, 2020

MagSafe magnetic accessory charging, Super Retina XDR displays, and a Ceramic Shield were key features of the iPhone 12.

iPhone 13 - September 24, 2021

Improved battery life, Cinematic mode, and ProRes video recording on Pro models highlighted the iPhone 13.

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

The third-generation iPhone SE brought back the home button, 5G connectivity, and several photography features.

iPhone 14 - September 16, 2022

Emergency SOS via satellite, enhanced camera systems, and the return of the Plus model were key iPhone 14 features.

iPhone 15 - September 22, 2023

The iPhone 15 series featured Pro models with a new lens, titanium frame, action button, and the switch to USB-C.

iPhone 16 - September 20, 2024

The latest iPhone 16 boasts faster CPU performance, a customizable action button, and Apple Intelligence integration. Read our review for a detailed comparison.

When Is the iPhone 17 Coming Out?

While the iPhone 16 is fresh off the press, anticipation for the iPhone 17 is already building. Expect further details and a likely release around September 2025.

Learn more about the iPhone 16 announcements.
Explore our guides to every iPad and Apple Watch generation.