In 2007, Apple launched the first iPhone. Since then, they have released new models with better design and technology every year. Early features like the Internet, text messaging, and a built-in camera helped shape the modern smartphone. Over time, Apple improved the display, battery life, and sound, keeping the iPhone ahead of the competition.
In 2020, Apple released the iPhone 12 series. This included the iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, and iPhone 12 mini. Each model was faster, stronger, and better than before.
In 2021, the iPhone 13 series arrived. It was the best iPhone experience yet—until 2022, when Apple launched the iPhone 14 series, including the iPhone 14 Plus.
In 2023, the iPhone 15 series was introduced. It featured Dynamic Island, USB-C charging, and a new action button. From the first iPhone in 2007 to now, Apple has come a long way.
Let’s look back at some of the most essential iPhone milestones.
June 2007: The first iPhone
Steve Jobs introduced the iPhone as three products: an iPod, a phone, and an Internet communicator. It had a 3.5-inch screen, a multitouch display, a microphone, and headset controls. At the time, it was called “a breakthrough handheld computer.” Time Magazine even named it the Invention of the Year.
July 2008: iPhone 3G and the App Store
The iPhone 3G brought 3G data, GPS, and most importantly, the App Store. This lets users download apps made by other developers. By 2018, the store had more than 2 million apps. The Wall Street Journal called it “a true computing platform with wide versatility.”
June 2010: iPhone 4
The iPhone 4 launched with a high-resolution Retina Display, a front camera, FaceTime, and multitasking. Reviewers praised it as the best smartphone available at the time. It became the iPhone’s longest lifespan and came in a white model.
October 2011: iPhone 4s and Siri
The iPhone 4s introduced Siri, Apple’s voice assistant. It also included iMessage, iCloud, and Notification Center. The 8-megapixel camera could record full HD video. The Verge called it “a gorgeous device with impressive specs.”
September 2014: iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus
Apple launched bigger phones for the first time. The iPhone 6 Plus had a 5.5-inch screen, while the iPhone 6 had a 4.7-inch screen. Later models (iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 8 Plus) followed this trend. These phones also offered faster processors, better cameras, and improved Wi-Fi. The iPhone 7 series added water resistance and removed the headphone jack.
September 2017: iPhone X
At the first event held at the Steve Jobs Theater, Apple introduced the iPhone X and other products. iPhone X removed the home button and added Face ID, an OLED display, wireless charging, and Animojis. Its camera was rated one of the best by Consumer Reports.
September 2018: iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR
Apple released three new models. The XS and XS Max had the largest iPhone displays at the time. The XR introduced the Liquid Retina LCD. Faster Face ID and powerful chips made these phones popular worldwide.
October 2020: iPhone 12
The iPhone 12 series introduced 5G. It included four models, all with Ceramic Shield for better drop protection. The phones featured an A14 Bionic chip, improved cameras, and Night Mode. Apple also added an ultra-wide lens for better photos in low light.
September 2021: iPhone 13 series
The iPhone 13 and 13 Pro brought the most advanced dual-camera system ever in an iPhone. They had stronger batteries, the A15 Bionic chip, and brighter displays.
September 2022: iPhone 14 series
Apple launched the iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, and 14 Pro Max. The Pro models featured a 48-megapixel camera and the new Dynamic Island. Crash detection, emergency SOS, and Action Mode for video were also added.
September 2023: iPhone 15 series
The iPhone 15 lineup included Dynamic Island on all models. Apple also replaced the Lightning port with USB-C and added an action button for more control.
The iPhone has grown from a simple smartphone in 2007 to one of the most advanced devices in the world today. Each year, Apple pushes technology forward with new features and designs—and the future looks even more exciting with Verizon bringing these iPhones to users across the USA.
