The Apple iPhone, a 21st-century marvel, has sold over 2.3 billion units globally, solidifying its place as a revolutionary device. With 17 years and numerous releases under its belt, keeping track of every iPhone generation can be challenging. This comprehensive timeline details every iPhone, from 2007 to 2024, including the latest iPhone 16, showcasing the remarkable evolution of this iconic product.
Upcoming iPhones! 
iPhone 16 Pro Max
See it at Best Buy*
Looking to save money on a new Apple phone? Check out our guide to the best iPhone deals happening now.*
How Many iPhone Generations Have There Been?
A total of 24 distinct iPhone generations have been released. The journey began in 2007 with the original iPhone, and at least one new model has launched annually since. This count includes variations like the Plus and Max series within each main generation, as well as distinct models such as the iPhone SE 2 and iPhone XR.
Answer
See Results
Every iPhone Generation in Order of Release
iPhone - June 29, 2007
Launched on June 29, 2007, the groundbreaking first iPhone seamlessly integrated iPod, phone, and internet capabilities, marking a significant leap in the smartphone market. Its 3.5-inch display and 2-megapixel camera, while modest by today's standards, represent a pivotal moment in technological history.
iPhone 3G - July 11, 2008
The iPhone 3G introduced 3G connectivity, dramatically improving data speeds. More importantly, it debuted the App Store, revolutionizing mobile app development and user experience.
iPhone 3GS - June 19, 2009
The iPhone 3GS boasted a superior 3-megapixel camera, enhancing image quality. Increased storage options further supported the growing App Store ecosystem, and performance was notably improved compared to its predecessor.
iPhone 4 - June 24, 2010
FaceTime video calling was a defining feature of the iPhone 4, along with a 5-megapixel camera capable of HD video recording and an LED flash. The introduction of Apple's Retina display significantly enhanced screen clarity and readability.
iPhone 4S - October 14, 2011
The iPhone 4S is best remembered for introducing Siri, Apple's virtual assistant, which has since become a cornerstone of the Apple ecosystem. It also featured 1080p video recording from its 8-megapixel camera and debuted key software updates like iCloud and iMessage.
iPhone 5 - September 21, 2012
LTE support arrived with the iPhone 5, enabling faster data speeds for demanding applications and content. Improved microphones enhanced audio quality, and the introduction of the Lightning port marked a significant design change.
iPhone 5S - September 20, 2013
Touch ID, a fingerprint sensor for unlocking the device, debuted on the iPhone 5S, becoming a standard feature for many subsequent generations. The A7 processor and advanced camera technologies further enhanced performance and capabilities.
iPhone 5C - September 20, 2013
The iPhone 5C was Apple's first budget-friendly option, featuring the same internals as the iPhone 5 but in a range of vibrant colors. This made the iPhone more accessible to a wider audience.
iPhone 6 - September 19, 2014
The iPhone 6 adopted a sleeker design and introduced Apple Pay, leveraging NFC technology for contactless payments. This generation also marked the introduction of multiple models, with the iPhone 6 Plus offering a larger 5.5-inch display.
iPhone 6S - September 25, 2015
3D Touch, a pressure-sensitive display technology enabling context-sensitive actions, was a key feature of the iPhone 6S. 4K video recording capabilities further elevated its multimedia capabilities.
iPhone SE - March 31, 2016
The first iPhone SE revived the iPhone 5S design while incorporating updated features from the iPhone 6S, such as 4K video recording, offering a compact and affordable option.
iPhone 7 - September 16, 2016
The iPhone 7 controversially removed the headphone jack, shifting audio output to Bluetooth or the Lightning port. It also introduced water resistance and a Taptic Engine-enabled home button.
iPhone 8 - September 22, 2017
The iPhone 8 refined the iPhone 7 design with the addition of wireless charging via a glass back panel and introduced the True Tone display, which dynamically adjusts color and brightness based on ambient lighting.
iPhone X - November 3, 2017
The iPhone X marked a significant design shift, eliminating the home button and introducing an edge-to-edge display. Face ID, a facial recognition system, replaced Touch ID for device unlocking.
iPhone XS - September 21, 2018
The iPhone XS offered incremental improvements over the iPhone X, including enhanced water resistance and a dual-SIM tray for international users.
iPhone XR - October 26, 2018
The iPhone XR provided a more affordable alternative to the iPhone XS, featuring an LCD display and a single rear camera.
iPhone 11 - September 20, 2019
The iPhone 11 increased the base model screen size to 6.1 inches and featured a new Ultra Wide camera. This generation also introduced Pro models with advanced features.
iPhone SE (2nd Gen) - April 24, 2020
The second-generation iPhone SE offered significant performance improvements with the A13 Bionic chip, a larger 4.7-inch screen, and Haptic Touch.
iPhone 12 - October 23, 2020
MagSafe magnetic charging and accessories, a Super Retina XDR display, and a Ceramic Shield front cover were key features of the iPhone 12.
iPhone 13 - September 24, 2021
The iPhone 13 focused on improved battery life, Cinematic Mode for video recording, and ProRes video on Pro models.
iPhone SE (3rd Gen) - March 18, 2022
The third-generation iPhone SE brought back the home button and added 5G connectivity.
iPhone 14 - September 16, 2022
Emergency SOS via satellite and upgraded camera systems were highlights of the iPhone 14 generation.
iPhone 15 - September 22, 2023
The iPhone 15 featured a USB-C port, new Pro models with titanium frames, and an Action button.
iPhone 16 - September 20, 2024
The latest iPhone 16 boasts faster processing, a customizable Action button, and enhanced Apple Intelligence integration.
In our review of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro Max, we detailed all of the differences the latest phones received over the last generation.
When Is the iPhone 17 Coming Out?
While the iPhone 16 is fresh on the market, anticipation for the iPhone 17 is already building. While specifics are scarce, a September 2025 release is likely, following Apple's typical release schedule. Stay tuned for updates.
You can see our guide to all of the biggest iPhone 16 announcements from the event today.
*Looking to dive into more Apple history? Check out our guide to every iPad generation and every Apple Watch generation.*
