The Apple iPhone: A Comprehensive History of Every Generation
The iPhone, a groundbreaking invention of the 21st century, has sold over 2.3 billion units globally. Spanning 17 years and numerous model variations, its evolution is a fascinating journey. This chronological list details every iPhone released, from the original to the latest iPhone 16, clarifying the often-confusing lineage of Apple's flagship device. We've included variations like the Plus and Max models within their respective generations, and also listed models like the iPhone SE and iPhone XR as separate entries.
A Total of 24 iPhone Generations
In total, there have been 24 distinct iPhone generations. Each year since the first iPhone's debut in 2007 has seen at least one new model.
Every iPhone Generation: A Chronological Overview
iPhone (June 29, 2007)
The original iPhone revolutionized the smartphone market, combining iPod, phone, and internet capabilities in a sleek, keyboard-less design. Its 3.5-inch display and 2-megapixel camera were groundbreaking for their time.
iPhone 3G (July 11, 2008)
The iPhone 3G introduced 3G connectivity and the revolutionary App Store, opening a new era of mobile app development.
iPhone 3GS (June 19, 2009)
Boasting a 3-megapixel camera and improved performance, the iPhone 3GS enhanced image quality and app capabilities.
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 recording with its 8-megapixel camera. iCloud and iMessage also launched with this model.
iPhone 5 (September 21, 2012)
LTE connectivity, improved audio capabilities, and the introduction of the Lightning port were key features of the iPhone 5.
iPhone 5S (September 20, 2013)
Touch ID fingerprint scanning made its debut on the iPhone 5S, along with the A7 processor and enhanced camera technology.
iPhone 5C (September 20, 2013)
Apple's first budget-friendly iPhone, the 5C, offered vibrant color options and the same hardware as the iPhone 5.
iPhone 6 (September 19, 2014)
A sleeker design and the introduction of Apple Pay via NFC technology marked the iPhone 6, which also launched a larger "Plus" model.
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 internals, offering a compact and affordable option.
iPhone 7 (September 16, 2016)
The controversial removal of the headphone jack, improved water resistance, and the introduction of a 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 key improvements on the iPhone 8.
iPhone X (November 3, 2017)
A radical redesign featuring an edge-to-edge display, Face ID facial recognition, and the removal of the home button.
iPhone XS (September 21, 2018)
A refined version of the iPhone X, with the addition of 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, along with the introduction of Pro models.
iPhone SE (2nd Gen) (April 24, 2020)
The second-generation SE featured a more powerful A13 Bionic chip, a larger display, and Haptic Touch.
iPhone 12 (October 23, 2020)
MagSafe magnetic accessory charging, a Super Retina XDR display, and Ceramic Shield durability were highlights of the iPhone 12.
iPhone 13 (September 24, 2021)
Improved battery life, Cinematic Mode video recording, and ProRes video on Pro models were key features.
iPhone SE (3rd Gen) (March 18, 2022)
The return of the home button, 5G connectivity, and inclusion of features from newer models.
iPhone 14 (September 16, 2022)
Emergency SOS via satellite, and upgraded camera systems.
iPhone 15 (September 22, 2023)
USB-C port, titanium frame on Pro models, and a new action button.
iPhone 16 (September 20, 2024)
Faster CPU, customizable action button, and Apple Intelligence integration.
The iPhone 17 is anticipated around September 2025. This comprehensive history provides a clear picture of the iPhone's remarkable evolution.
