What Year Did Every iPhone Come Out? [2007-2025 Timeline]

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Since Apple introduced the first iPhone in 2007, smartphones have evolved drastically. The iPhone not only transformed mobile phones but also reshaped personal technology. Each year brought something new, exciting, and innovative. But when exactly did each iPhone release occur, and what were their groundbreaking features?

Tracking these releases helps understand the technological advancements made over the years. This comprehensive guide covers every iPhone release year, highlighting the significant innovations that changed how we communicate and interact with technology.

iPhone Models by Release Year

Explore the complete timeline of every iPhone model and their year of release:

• iPhone: 2007
• iPhone 3G: 2008
• iPhone 3GS: 2009
• iPhone 4: 2010
• iPhone 4S: 2011
• iPhone 5: 2012
• iPhone 5S & 5C: 2013
• iPhone 6 & 6 Plus: 2014
• iPhone 6S & 6S Plus: 2015
• iPhone SE (1st Gen): 2016
• iPhone 7 & 7 Plus: 2016
• iPhone 8 & 8 Plus: 2017
• iPhone X: 2017
• iPhone XS, XS Max & XR): 2018
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro & 11 Pro Max: 2019
• iPhone SE (2nd Gen): 2020
• iPhone 12 Series (12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro & 12 Pro Max): 2020
• iPhone 13 Series (13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro & 13 Pro Max): 2021
• iPhone SE (3rd Gen): 2022
• iPhone 14 Series (14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro & 14 Pro Max): 2022
• iPhone 15 Series (15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro & 15 Pro Max): 2023
• iPhone 16 Series (16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro & 16 Pro Max): 2024
• iPhone 16e: 2025

When Did Apple Release the First iPhone?

Steve Jobs unveiled the first iPhone on January 9, 2007 at the Macworld Conference & Expo in San Francisco, United States. The groundbreaking device finally reached consumers on June 29 that same year. This watershed moment in technology marked the start of the smartphone era as we know it today.

The original iPhone featured a 3.5-inch display with 320×480 pixel resolution. It came with a 2-megapixel rear camera but lacked video recording capabilities. The device shipped with 4GB or 8GB storage options. Its aluminum back with a plastic bottom distinguished its design from later models.

What made this first iPhone revolutionary wasn’t just individual specifications. The true innovation lay in its multi-touch interface and intuitive operating system. Jobs called it “an iPod, a phone, and an internet communicator” all in one device. Despite its $499 starting price, the original iPhone sold 6.1 million units before Apple discontinued it.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 3G?

Apple released the iPhone 3G on July 11, 2008. This second-generation model introduced several key advancements over its predecessor. The most significant upgrade was 3G connectivity, which dramatically improved data speeds for users.

The iPhone 3G also marked the debut of the App Store, fundamentally changing how people used their devices. The addition of GPS enabled navigation and location-based services for the first time. Apple replaced the aluminum back with polished plastic, offering black and white color options.

Pricing became more accessible with the 8GB model starting at $199 with a two-year contract. The combination of faster internet, third-party apps, and lower pricing helped the iPhone 3G reach a broader audience than the original model.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 3GS?

The iPhone 3GS arrived on June 19, 2009. The “S” stood for speed, with Apple claiming this model was twice as fast as its predecessor. The improved performance supported new features that weren’t possible on earlier hardware.

Notable upgrades included a 3-megapixel camera that could finally record video. Apple introduced voice control features, foreshadowing the later arrival of Siri. The device offered up to 32GB of storage, addressing growing media collection needs.

Other improvements included a compass, better battery life, and a fingerprint-resistant oleophobic screen coating. These seemingly minor enhancements collectively created a more polished user experience. The iPhone 3GS sold over a million units during its first weekend, cementing the iPhone’s growing market dominance.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 4?

June 24, 2010 saw the release of the iPhone 4, representing the first major redesign of the iPhone. The device featured a striking new look with flat edges and glass front and back panels. Its stainless steel frame doubled as the antenna system.

The headline feature was the Retina display, with 960×640 resolution that quadrupled pixel count. Apple added a front-facing camera, enabling FaceTime video calling for the first time. The rear camera improved to 5 megapixels with an LED flash.

The iPhone 4 launched with iOS 4, introducing multitasking capabilities to the platform. Despite controversy around antenna reception issues dubbed “Antennagate,” the iPhone 4 became Apple’s most successful product launch. Its influence on smartphone design continues to resonate even in modern devices.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 4S?

Apple unveiled the iPhone 4S on October 4, 2011, just a day before Steve Jobs passed away. Maintaining the same external design as the iPhone 4, the 4S focused on internal improvements. The device introduced Apple’s A5 chip, delivering significantly faster performance.

The most memorable addition was Siri, Apple’s voice-controlled virtual assistant. The camera received a substantial upgrade to 8 megapixels with improved optics. Video recording capabilities improved to 1080p HD quality.

The 4S launch coincided with iOS 5, which brought iCloud and iMessage. Despite initial disappointment about the lack of design changes, the 4S sold over four million units in its first weekend. This success demonstrated that significant feature improvements could drive upgrades even without visual redesigns.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 5?

The iPhone 5 debuted on September 21, 2012. This model featured the first screen size increase in iPhone history. The display grew to 4 inches while maintaining the same width as previous models.

Apple constructed the iPhone 5 from aluminum and glass, making it 20% lighter than the 4S. The device introduced the Lightning connector, replacing the 30-pin dock connector used since the original iPhone. It also marked Apple’s first phone with LTE connectivity.

The iPhone 5 launched alongside iOS 6, which controversially replaced Google Maps with Apple Maps. Despite this software stumble, the hardware improvements proved popular. Apple reported two million pre-orders in the first 24 hours, confirming strong consumer demand for a larger iPhone.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 5S and 5C?

September 20, 2013 brought two new iPhone models simultaneously for the first time. The flagship iPhone 5S maintained the iPhone 5’s design while adding Touch ID fingerprint authentication. The device introduced the 64-bit A7 chip, dramatically improving performance.

The iPhone 5C represented Apple’s first attempt at a more affordable model. It featured a polycarbonate shell in five vibrant colors. Internally, the 5C closely resembled the previous year’s iPhone 5 with some minor improvements.

The 5S also debuted the M7 motion coprocessor, enabling fitness tracking capabilities. The camera added slow-motion video recording and a dual-LED flash. These models launched with iOS 7, which brought a complete visual redesign to the operating system.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 6 and 6 Plus?

Apple dramatically increased screen sizes with the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus, released on September 19, 2014. The iPhone 6 featured a 4.7-inch display, while the 6 Plus introduced a 5.5-inch screen. These changes acknowledged the growing consumer preference for larger smartphones.

Both models featured rounded edges and an ultra-thin profile. Apple Pay debuted with these devices, using NFC technology for contactless payments. The improved cameras added optical image stabilization on the Plus model and better video capabilities.

The iPhone 6 line became Apple’s best-selling phones ever, with over 10 million units sold during the launch weekend. However, some units suffered from “Bendgate,” where the aluminum frame could bend under pressure. This controversy highlighted the engineering challenges of creating increasingly thin devices.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 6S and 6S Plus?

The iPhone 6S and 6S Plus were released on September 25, 2015, following Apple’s typical pattern of “S” upgrades where they keep the same external design as the previous generation but introduce significant internal improvements.

3D Touch Technology

The most innovative feature was 3D Touch, which represented a major advancement in touchscreen technology:

• It used pressure-sensitive sensors that could detect how firmly you pressed on the screen
• This enabled new interactions like “Peek” (light press) to preview content and “Pop” (firmer press) to open it
• Quick Actions were added to app icons, allowing users to access specific functions directly from the home screen with a firm press
• The system provided haptic feedback (tiny vibrations) to confirm pressure detection
• It essentially added a “right-click” equivalent to touch interfaces, creating a new dimension of interaction

Camera Improvements

The camera system received substantial upgrades:

• The rear camera increased from 8MP to 12MP, a 50% increase in resolution
• 4K video recording (3840×2160) was introduced for the first time on an iPhone
• The front-facing camera jumped from 1.2MP to 5MP, dramatically improving selfie quality
• The “Retina Flash” feature used the screen itself as a flash for selfies by briefly increasing screen brightness by 300%
• Improved autofocus and color accuracy enhanced overall photo quality

Build Quality Enhancements

Apple directly addressed the “Bendgate” controversy from the iPhone 6:

• The 7000-series aluminum alloy used in the 6S was 60% stronger than the previous generation
• This aluminum is the same grade used in aerospace applications
• Despite the stronger materials, Apple maintained nearly identical dimensions to the previous models
• The devices were slightly heavier (143g vs 129g for the standard model) due to these stronger materials

Live Photos

Live Photos was a creative new feature that blended still photography with video:

• When taking a photo, the camera captured 1.5 seconds before and after the still image
• These brief moments included motion and sound
• The feature created more immersive memories without users needing to decide between photo or video
• Live Photos could be set as animated wallpapers on the lock screen
• They worked with 3D Touch, allowing users to press on a still photo to see the animation

Performance Upgrades

The internal hardware received significant improvements:

• The A9 processor was approximately 70% faster at CPU tasks than the previous A8
• Graphics performance improved by approximately 90%
• The devices doubled their RAM from 1GB to 2GB, greatly improving multitasking
• Touch ID became approximately twice as fast as on the iPhone 6
• A new “Hey Siri” feature allowed voice activation without needing to be plugged in

The iPhone 6S and 6S Plus represented what many consider the most substantial “S” upgrade in iPhone history. While they looked identical to their predecessors, the collection of new features and technologies fundamentally changed how users interacted with their devices, particularly through 3D Touch. Interestingly, while 3D Touch was heavily promoted at launch, Apple eventually moved away from this technology in later models in favor of Haptic Touch, which used long-presses rather than pressure sensitivity.

When Did Apple Released iPhone SE (1st Generation)?

Apple released the first iPhone SE on March 31, 2016. This model reused the iPhone 5S design while incorporating more modern internals. The SE featured the same A9 processor and 12-megapixel camera as the iPhone 6S.

The compact 4-inch form factor appealed to users who preferred smaller phones. The $399 starting price made it the most affordable new iPhone in years. The SE represented Apple’s acknowledgment that not all users wanted increasingly larger devices.

Despite its smaller size, the SE didn’t compromise on performance. It could handle all the same tasks as the larger 6S, just with a smaller display. This model proved particularly popular in emerging markets and with users who prioritized one-handed operation.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 7 & 7 Plus?

The iPhone 7 and 7 Plus launched on September 16, 2016. These models controversially removed the 3.5mm headphone jack, pushing users toward wireless headphones or Lightning adapters. Apple cited “courage” as the reason for this divisive change.

The iPhone 7 Plus introduced a dual-camera system with a telephoto lens enabling 2x optical zoom. Both models featured improved water resistance, stereo speakers, and a new solid-state Home button. The Jet Black finish proved especially popular despite its susceptibility to scratches.

These iPhones also doubled the base storage to 32GB and offered up to 256GB. Despite initial backlash against the headphone jack removal, the iPhone 7 line sold well. The industry eventually followed Apple’s lead, with most manufacturers eventually abandoning the headphone jack as well.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 8 & 8 Plus?

Apple released the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus on September 22, 2017. These devices marked a return to glass back design, enabling wireless charging for the first time in an iPhone. The glass material used was reinforced with an internal steel and copper structure.

The iPhone 8 series featured Apple’s A11 Bionic chip, bringing significant performance improvements. The new processor included a neural engine specifically designed for machine learning tasks. True Tone display technology automatically adjusted color temperature based on ambient lighting.

Camera improvements included better color filters and optical image stabilization. The iPhone 8 Plus continued the dual-camera system with enhanced Portrait Mode features. Despite being overshadowed by the iPhone X announcement, the 8 series represented solid iterative improvements over previous models.

When Did Apple Released iPhone X?

The iPhone X (pronounced “ten”) launched on November 3, 2017, celebrating the iPhone’s 10th anniversary. This revolutionary redesign eliminated the home button and introduced a nearly bezel-less display. The 5.8-inch OLED screen offered deeper blacks and better color reproduction than previous LCD panels.

Face ID replaced Touch ID, using infrared cameras and dot projection to create detailed 3D face maps. Apple’s TrueDepth camera system also enabled Animoji, which animated emoji characters using facial movements. The rear camera system featured dual 12-megapixel sensors with dual optical image stabilization.

The iPhone X introduced new gesture controls to compensate for the missing home button. Its $999 starting price established a new premium tier for smartphones. Despite initial skepticism about the notch design and facial recognition, the iPhone X set the foundation for all future iPhone designs.

When Did Apple Released iPhone XS, XS Max & XR?

Apple released the iPhone XS and XS Max on September 21, 2018, followed by the iPhone XR on October 26. The XS models refined the X design, while the XS Max introduced a massive 6.5-inch display. The XR offered similar features at a lower price point with a 6.1-inch LCD screen.

All three models featured the A12 Bionic chip with an enhanced neural engine. The XS and XS Max included improved dual cameras with Smart HDR technology. The XR used a single camera but retained portrait mode capabilities through software algorithms.

The XR’s colorful options recalled the iPhone 5C while offering flagship-level performance. These models introduced Dual SIM support using a physical SIM card plus eSIM technology. The lineup demonstrated Apple’s new strategy of offering multiple tiers of premium devices to reach different market segments.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 11, 11 Pro & 11 Pro Max?

The iPhone 11 series arrived on September 20, 2019. The standard iPhone 11 replaced the XR, while the Pro models succeeded the XS line. All three featured the A13 Bionic chip, which Apple claimed was the fastest smartphone processor available.

The camera system received the most significant upgrades. The iPhone a 11 added a second ultra-wide lens, while the Pro models featured triple-camera systems including telephoto lenses. Night mode dramatically improved low-light photography without flash. The front camera improved to 12 megapixels with wider-angle capabilities.

Battery life saw substantial improvements across all models. The iPhone 11 Pro Max could last up to five hours longer than the XS Max. Other enhancements included improved water resistance, spatial audio playback, and a new U1 chip for spatial awareness. The iPhone 11 series proved extremely popular, particularly the standard model with its competitive pricing.

When Did Apple Released iPhone SE (2nd Generation)?

Apple released the second-generation iPhone SE on April 24, 2020. This budget-friendly option reused the iPhone 8’s design while incorporating newer internal components. The device featured the same A13 Bionic chip found in the iPhone 11 series.

The SE maintained a 4.7-inch display with Touch ID home button, appealing to users who preferred this familiar interface. It included a single 12-megapixel camera with capabilities similar to the iPhone XR. Portrait mode was available despite having only one lens.

Priced starting at $399, the 2020 SE offered exceptional value during the economic uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. It proved especially popular among users upgrading from older models who wanted modern performance without learning new gesture controls.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 12 Series?

The iPhone 12 family launched in a staggered release: the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro on October 23, 2020, followed by the 12 mini and 12 Pro Max on November 13. This marked the first time Apple released four new iPhone models simultaneously. All featured 5G connectivity and a design reminiscent of the iPhone 4 with flat edges.

Apple introduced the 5.4-inch iPhone 12 mini for users who preferred smaller devices. The entire lineup used OLED displays, branded as Super Retina XDR. The A14 Bionic chip manufactured with 5-nanometer process technology powered all four models.

MagSafe technology debuted, adding a magnetic attachment system for accessories. Apple increased drop resistance with “Ceramic Shield” glass technology. The Pro models featured LiDAR scanners for enhanced augmented reality experiences and improved low-light autofocus. The 12 series removed charging adapters from the box, citing environmental concerns.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 13 Series?

Apple released all four iPhone 13 models on September 24, 2021. The lineup maintained the same screen sizes as the 12 series while focusing on battery life improvements. The notch housing the TrueDepth camera system became 20% smaller across all models.

Camera enhancements included larger sensors that captured more light. Cinematic mode brought automatic focus shifting to video recording. The iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max introduced 120Hz ProMotion displays with variable refresh rates. Storage options increased, with the Pro models offering up to 1TB for the first time.

The A15 Bionic chip improved performance and efficiency. Battery improvements ranged from 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the model. While the iPhone 13 series didn’t introduce revolutionary features, the cumulative refinements delivered a notably better user experience than previous generations.

When Did Apple Released iPhone SE (3rd Generation)?

The third-generation iPhone SE launched on March 18, 2022. This update maintained the same exterior design as the previous SE and the iPhone 8. The device gained 5G connectivity and the A15 Bionic chip from the iPhone 13 series.

Camera capabilities improved through computational photography despite using the same 12-megapixel sensor. Battery life increased slightly over the previous generation. The starting price increased to $429, reflecting component cost increases and additional features.

This model continued to serve users who preferred Touch ID and the traditional iPhone interface. While its design looked increasingly dated, its internal specifications ensured compatibility with the latest apps and iOS features for years to come.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 14 Series?

The iPhone 14 series arrived on September 16, 2022, with the 14 Plus following on October 7. Apple discontinued the mini variant, replacing it with the 6.7-inch iPhone 14 Plus. The standard models retained the A15 Bionic chip while the Pro models received the new A16 Bionic.

The Pro models introduced the “Dynamic Island,” replacing the static notch with an interactive area around the front camera cutout. The Pro models also featured an always-on display that showed time and notifications without fully activating the screen. The main camera on Pro models increased to 48 megapixels, enabling higher resolution and improved low-light performance.

All iPhone 14 models added emergency satellite connectivity for areas without cellular coverage. Crash detection used new sensors to automatically contact emergency services after detecting a severe car accident. The standard iPhone 14 models made internal redesigns to improve repairability, allowing the back glass to be replaced more easily.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 15 Series?

Apple released the iPhone 15 series on September 22, 2023. All models switched from Lightning to USB-C connectors, complying with EU regulations. The standard models inherited the Dynamic Island from the previous year’s Pro models. The entire lineup featured the A16 Bionic chip, with Pro models upgrading to the A17 Pro.

The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max introduced titanium frames, reducing weight while increasing durability. The Action button replaced the mute switch, allowing customization for various functions. The Pro Max featured a 5x optical zoom camera using a tetraprism lens design. All models improved computational photography with Smart HDR 5.

USB-C on the Pro models supported faster data transfer speeds similar to USB 3.0. The standard models received camera upgrades to 48 megapixels, matching the previous Pro generation. These devices delivered improved thermal performance for sustained processing tasks, particularly beneficial for gaming and video recording.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 16 Series?

The iPhone 16 family launched on September 20, 2024. All four models featured dedicated AI processing hardware to support Apple Intelligence features. The standard iPhone 16 increased slightly in screen size to 6.1 inches, while the Plus model remained at 6.7 inches. Pro models continued using the same 6.1 and 6.7-inch dimensions as previous generations.

A new Camera Control button added dedicated physical controls for photography. The entire lineup gained spatial video recording capabilities for Apple Vision Pro compatibility. Battery capacity increased across all models to support the additional AI processing demands.

The A18 chip provided significant neural processing improvements while maintaining efficient power usage. The Pro models featured enhanced cooling systems to sustain peak performance during demanding tasks. Display brightness improved across all models, with peak HDR brightness reaching 2000 nits for better outdoor visibility.

When Did Apple Released iPhone 16e?

Apple surprised the market with the release of the iPhone 16e on February 28, 2025. This mid-cycle addition to the iPhone 16 family aimed to bring Apple Intelligence features to a more affordable price point. The device featured a 6.1-inch display similar to the standard iPhone 16 but with some strategic component adjustments to lower the cost.

The iPhone 16e utilized the A18 chip found in other iPhone 16 models, ensuring full compatibility with Apple Intelligence features. However, Apple reduced manufacturing costs by using an aluminum frame instead of the titanium found in Pro models. The camera system featured a single high-quality lens rather than the multi-lens arrays of more expensive models.

Despite these cost-saving measures, the 16e maintained core functionalities like the new Camera Control button and spatial video recording capabilities. The device came in a range of vibrant colors, differentiating it visually from the more premium models. With its combination of modern AI capabilities and accessible pricing, the iPhone 16e quickly became popular among users looking to experience Apple’s latest software innovations without the premium price tag.

Major Innovations and Updates by iPhone Generation

Each iPhone generation introduced groundbreaking features.

• The original iPhone brought touchscreen navigation and multimedia integration. The 3G added faster internet and app capabilities.
• Retina Display, first seen on iPhone 4, dramatically improved screen clarity. Siri arrived with the iPhone 4S, giving users voice-controlled convenience.
• The iPhone 5’s larger display allowed more content on screen, enhancing user experience. Touch ID on the 5S secured devices with fingerprint scanning, redefining smartphone security.
• Bigger screens became standard with the iPhone 6 series, addressing user demand for larger phones. 3D Touch introduced new ways to interact with apps on the iPhone 6S.
• The iPhone 7 controversially removed the headphone jack, but introduced water resistance. Face ID on the iPhone X offered facial recognition security, a significant technological leap.
• Triple-camera systems on the iPhone 11 series brought professional photography features to smartphones. 5G support in the iPhone 12 dramatically boosted download speeds.
• The iPhone 13’s Cinematic Mode improved video creation quality. Dynamic Island in iPhone 14 models transformed notifications and interactions.
• USB-C connectivity in the iPhone 15 simplified charging and accessories management. The iPhone 16’s AI integration in 2024 enhanced performance, personalization, and predictive capabilities.
• Finally, Apple’s 2025 iPhone 16e offered affordability without compromising essential features, thanks to Apple’s in-house components.

Comparison Chart: Key Features of iPhones (2007–2025)

To visualize changes over time, here’s a simplified comparison chart showing major features introduced across key iPhone models.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

Year	Model	Screen Size	Camera	Processor	Security	Connectivity	Key Innovations
2007	iPhone	3.5″	2MP Single	Samsung 32-bit	–	2G (Edge)	Multi-touch screen
2010	iPhone 4	3.5″ Retina	5MP Single	Apple A4	–	3G	Retina Display, FaceTime
2013	iPhone 5S	4″ Retina	8MP Single	Apple A7	Touch ID	4G LTE	Fingerprint sensor
2017	iPhone X	5.8″ OLED	Dual 12MP	Apple A11	Face ID	4G LTE	Face ID, Wireless Charging
2020	iPhone 12 Pro	6.1″ OLED	Triple 12MP + LiDAR	Apple A14	Face ID	5G	5G connectivity, MagSafe
2023	iPhone 15 Pro	6.1″ OLED	Triple 48MP	Apple A17 Pro	Face ID	5G	USB-C, Dynamic Island
2025	iPhone 16e	6.1″ OLED	Dual 12MP	Apple A18	Face ID	5G (Apple Modem)	Budget model, AI Integration

Conclusion

The iPhone’s evolution from 2007 to 2025 demonstrates Apple’s consistent innovation in the smartphone market. Each generation has introduced features that later became industry standards. From the revolutionary touch interface of the original to the advanced computational photography and AI capabilities of recent models, iPhones have repeatedly redefined what we expect from mobile devices.

Apple’s careful balance between hardware and software integration remains a key strength. The company’s control over both aspects enables experiences that competitors struggle to match. This timeline shows not just technological advancement, but Apple’s ability to anticipate and shape consumer expectations.

The transition from Steve Jobs’ original vision to the current AI-focused devices reflects changing technology trends and consumer needs. The introduction of models like the iPhone 16e demonstrates Apple’s adaptation to diverse market segments while maintaining core technology standards. Despite increasing competition, the iPhone continues to set benchmarks for the industry. With each release still generating global attention, Apple’s influence on mobile technology remains undeniable, even as the smartphone market matures toward more incremental improvements.

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