The Apple iPhone: A Comprehensive History of Every Model
The iPhone, a 21st-century marvel, has sold over 2.3 billion units globally. With 17 years and numerous iterations, tracking the iPhone's evolution can be challenging. This chronological list details every iPhone model released, 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. The iPhone 16 marks the latest generation.
A Total of 24 iPhone Generations
To date, there have been 24 distinct iPhone generations. Since the original 2007 release, at least one new model has launched annually. This count includes variations within each generation.
Every iPhone Model in Chronological Order:
- iPhone (June 29, 2007): The groundbreaking original, combining iPod, phone, and internet capabilities. Its 3.5-inch display and 2MP camera revolutionized the smartphone landscape.
- iPhone 3G (July 11, 2008): Introduced 3G connectivity and the revolutionary App Store.
- iPhone 3GS (June 19, 2009): Boasted a 3MP camera and double the processing speed of its predecessor.
- iPhone 4 (June 24, 2010): Featured FaceTime video calling, a 5MP camera with LED flash, and the first Retina display.
- iPhone 4S (October 14, 2011): Introduced Siri, 1080p video recording (8MP camera), iCloud, and iMessage.
- iPhone 5 (September 21, 2012): Supported LTE, featured improved audio, and introduced the Lightning port.
- iPhone 5S (September 20, 2013): Introduced Touch ID fingerprint scanning, the A7 processor, and enhanced camera technology.
- iPhone 5C (September 20, 2013): Apple's first budget-friendly iPhone, offering vibrant colors and iPhone 5 hardware.
- iPhone 6 (September 19, 2014): Featured a slimmer design and introduced Apple Pay. Also launched the larger iPhone 6 Plus.
- iPhone 6S (September 25, 2015): Introduced 3D Touch and 4K video recording.
- iPhone SE (March 31, 2016): A compact iPhone with iPhone 6S features in an iPhone 5S-style body.
- iPhone 7 (September 16, 2016): Removed the headphone jack, added water resistance, and introduced a dual-camera system on the iPhone 7 Plus.
- iPhone 8 (September 22, 2017): Added wireless charging and a True Tone display.
- iPhone X (November 3, 2017): A revolutionary design with an edge-to-edge display and Face ID.
- iPhone XS (September 21, 2018): A refined iPhone X with minor improvements, including dual-SIM support.
- iPhone XR (October 26, 2018): A more affordable iPhone with an LCD display and single rear camera.
- iPhone 11 (September 20, 2019): Featured a larger 6.1-inch display and an ultrawide camera. Introduced Pro models with triple-camera systems.
- iPhone SE (2nd Gen) (April 24, 2020): A significant upgrade over the first SE, with the A13 Bionic chip, a larger display, and Haptic Touch.
- iPhone 12 (October 23, 2020): Introduced MagSafe, a Super Retina XDR display, and Ceramic Shield.
- iPhone 13 (September 24, 2021): Boasted significantly improved battery life and new camera features like Cinematic mode. Pro models featured ProRes video.
- iPhone SE (3rd Gen) (March 18, 2022): Brought back the home button and added 5G connectivity.
- iPhone 14 (September 16, 2022): Introduced Emergency SOS via satellite and upgraded camera systems. The Plus model returned.
- iPhone 15 (September 22, 2023): Pro models featured a new telephoto lens, titanium frame, and action button. Switched from Lightning to USB-C.
- iPhone 16 (September 20, 2024): The latest generation, featuring faster CPU performance, a customizable action button, and Apple Intelligence integration.
Looking Ahead to the iPhone 17:
While the iPhone 16 is recent, anticipation for the iPhone 17 is already building. A September 2025 release is expected.
