Every iPhone Generation: A Full History of Release Dates

The Apple iPhone: a 21st-century marvel and arguably one of the most revolutionary devices ever created. With over 2.3 billion sold worldwide, its impact is undeniable. Seventeen years and countless iterations later, it can be challenging to keep track of every iPhone generation. This comprehensive guide chronologically details each iPhone model, from the original 2007 release to the latest iPhone 16, clarifying the evolution of this iconic device.

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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's debut in 2007, at least one new model has been released annually. This count includes variations like Plus or Max models within each main generation, as well as distinct models such as the iPhone SE 2 and iPhone XR.

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Every iPhone Generation in Order of Release

iPhone - June 29, 2007

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

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 applications.

iPhone 3GS - June 19, 2009

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

iPhone 4 - June 24, 2010

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

iPhone 5 - September 21, 2012

LTE support, improved audio capabilities 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 highlighted the iPhone 5S.

iPhone 5C - September 20, 2013

Apple's first budget-friendly iPhone, the 5C, offered vibrant colors and the same hardware as the iPhone 5 at a lower price point.

iPhone 6 - September 19, 2014

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

iPhone 6S - September 25, 2015

3D Touch pressure-sensitive technology and 4K video recording capabilities 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 removal of the headphone jack, improved water resistance, a Taptic Engine home button, 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 added to the iPhone 8.

iPhone X - November 3, 2017

The iPhone X featured a bezel-less design, Face ID facial recognition, and a significant redesign that influenced future models.

iPhone XS - September 21, 2018

A refined version of the iPhone X, with improved water resistance and a dual-SIM tray.

iPhone XR - October 26, 2018

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

iPhone 11 - September 20, 2019

A 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display, an ultrawide camera, and the introduction of Pro models with triple-camera systems characterized the iPhone 11.

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

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

iPhone 12 - October 23, 2020

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

iPhone 13 - September 24, 2021

Improved battery life, Cinematic Mode, and ProRes video recording (on Pro models) were highlights of the iPhone 13.

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

The return of the home button, 5G connectivity, and features like Night Mode and Photographic Styles marked the iPhone SE (3rd Gen).

iPhone 14 - September 16, 2022

Emergency SOS via satellite, upgraded camera systems, and the return of the Plus model defined the iPhone 14.

iPhone 15 - September 22, 2023

The iPhone 15 series featured USB-C charging, significant Pro model upgrades (new lens, titanium frame, action button), and a shift away from the Lightning port.

iPhone 16 - September 20, 2024

The latest iPhone generation boasts faster CPU performance, a customizable action button, and integrated Apple Intelligence.

Our review of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro Max details all the improvements over the previous 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 highly likely, mirroring the release schedule of previous generations. Check back for updates!

Explore more Apple history with our guides to every iPad and Apple Watch generation.