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iPhone History: Every Generation Released

Author : Eric Update : Feb 26,2025

The Apple iPhone: A Comprehensive History of Every Generation

The iPhone, a 21st-century marvel, has sold over 2.3 billion units globally. Its impact on the smartphone market is undeniable. With 17 years and numerous models released, keeping track of every iPhone generation can be challenging. This chronological list details each iPhone release, from 2007 to 2024, including the latest iPhone 16.

iPhone 16 Pro Max

Total iPhone Generations: 24

This count includes variations like Plus and Max models within a main generation, and also separate entries for models like the iPhone SE and iPhone XR.

How Often Do You Upgrade?

Poll Graphic

(Poll options: Every year, Every 2-3 years, Only when my current iPhone stops working)

Every iPhone Generation:

1. iPhone (June 29, 2007)

Original iPhone

The groundbreaking original iPhone combined iPod, phone, and internet capabilities, revolutionizing the smartphone landscape. Its 3.5-inch display and 2-megapixel camera were revolutionary for their time.

2. iPhone 3G (July 11, 2008)

iPhone 3G

Image Credit: Cult of Mac

The iPhone 3G introduced 3G connectivity and the App Store, opening up a world of developer-created apps.

3. iPhone 3GS (June 19, 2009)

iPhone 3GS

Boasting a 3-megapixel camera and improved performance, the iPhone 3GS offered enhanced photography and speed.

4. iPhone 4 (June 24, 2010)

iPhone 4

The iPhone 4 introduced FaceTime video calling, a 5-megapixel camera with HD video recording and LED flash, and Apple's first Retina display.

5. iPhone 4S (October 14, 2011)

iPhone 4S

The iPhone 4S debuted Siri, Apple's virtual assistant, and offered 1080p video recording with its 8-megapixel camera. iCloud and iMessage also launched with this model.

6. iPhone 5 (September 21, 2012)

iPhone 5

LTE support, improved audio, and the introduction of the Lightning port were key features of the iPhone 5.

7. iPhone 5S (September 20, 2013)

iPhone 5S

Touch ID fingerprint scanning, the A7 processor, and enhanced camera technology were highlights of the iPhone 5S.

8. iPhone 5C (September 20, 2013)

iPhone 5C

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

9. iPhone 6 (September 19, 2014)

iPhone 6

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

10. iPhone 6S (September 25, 2015)

iPhone 6S

3D Touch pressure-sensitive display technology and 4K video recording were key features of the iPhone 6S.

11. iPhone SE (March 31, 2016)

iPhone SE (1st Gen)

The first iPhone SE revived the iPhone 5S design with updated internals, offering a compact and affordable option.

12. iPhone 7 (September 16, 2016)

iPhone 7

The removal of the headphone jack, water resistance, and a dual-camera system on the iPhone 7 Plus were notable changes.

13. iPhone 8 (September 22, 2017)

iPhone 8

Wireless charging, a glass back, and the True Tone display were added to the iPhone 8.

14. iPhone X (November 3, 2017)

iPhone X

The iPhone X featured a bezel-less design, Face ID facial recognition, and an edge-to-edge display.

15. iPhone XS (September 21, 2018)

iPhone XS

A refined iPhone X with a dual-SIM tray.

16. iPhone XR (October 26, 2018)

iPhone XR

A more affordable option with an LCD display and single rear camera.

17. iPhone 11 (September 20, 2019)

iPhone 11

A larger screen, Ultra Wide camera, and the introduction of Pro models.

18. iPhone SE (2nd Gen) (April 24, 2020)

iPhone SE (2nd Gen)

Significant improvements over the first SE, including the A13 Bionic chip and a larger display.

19. iPhone 12 (October 23, 2020)

iPhone 12

MagSafe magnetic charging, Super Retina XDR display, and Ceramic Shield durability.

20. iPhone 13 (September 24, 2021)

iPhone 13

Improved battery life, Cinematic Mode, and ProRes video on Pro models.

21. iPhone SE (3rd Gen) (March 18, 2022)

iPhone SE (3rd Gen)

The return of the home button, 5G connectivity, and updated camera features.

22. iPhone 14 (September 16, 2022)

iPhone 14

Emergency SOS via satellite, and camera improvements.

23. iPhone 15 (September 22, 2023)

iPhone 15

USB-C port, and significant Pro model upgrades.

24. iPhone 16 (September 20, 2024)

iPhone 16

Faster CPU, customizable action button, and Apple Intelligence integration.

Looking Ahead to the iPhone 17:

While details are scarce, the iPhone 17 is anticipated around September 2025.

(Links to other Apple device guides have been omitted as per the prompt's instructions to not alter the original meaning.)