Since the debut of the original iPhone in 2007, Apple has consistently expanded and refined its smartphone lineup. Over nearly two decades, the brand revolutionized mobile computing and set new standards for design, performance, and user experience. As of 2025, Apple’s smartphone offerings include dozens of models spanning basic, Pro, and innovative form factors.
1. The Beginning: 2007–2012
Apple’s first smartphone ushered in the modern smartphone era with its multi-touch display and intuitive interface.
Key early models:
- iPhone (Original) – 2007
- iPhone 3G – 2008
- iPhone 3GS – 2009
- iPhone 4 – 2010 (introduced Retina display)
- iPhone 4S – 2011 (added Siri voice assistant)
- iPhone 5 – 2012 (taller screen, Lightning connector)
2. Expansion and Diversification: 2013–2019
Apple introduced variations for performance, size, and price points:
Highlights:
- iPhone 5S & 5C – 2013
- iPhone 6 & 6 Plus – 2014
- iPhone 6S & 6S Plus – 2015
- iPhone SE (1st generation) – 2016 (compact and affordable)
- iPhone 7 & 7 Plus – 2016
- iPhone 8 & 8 Plus + iPhone X – 2017 (X introduced edge-to-edge OLED)
- iPhone XR / XS / XS Max – 2018
- iPhone 11 Series – 2019 (introduced multiple camera systems)
3. Modern Era: 2020–2024
In this decade Apple continued to evolve performance, screens, and capabilities.
Notable series:
- iPhone 12 Series – 2020
- iPhone 13 Series – 2021
- iPhone 14 Series – 2022
- iPhone 15 Series – 2023
- iPhone 16 Series – 2024
This generation included multiple tiers from base to Pro models.
4. Latest Apple Lineup: 2025
In 2025, Apple expanded its lineup to include new naming conventions and segments:
2025 iPhone models:
iPhone 16e – entry-level device launched early 2025
iPhone 17 – base model
iPhone Air – thin/ stylish model
iPhone 17 Pro – high-performance model
iPhone 17 Pro Max – flagship with top specs
The 2025 launch occurred on September 19, 2025, marking Apple’s continued drive in performance, camera quality, and user experience.
5. The Evolution in Context
Across nearly 20 years of iPhone releases:
- Apple has released over 50 iPhone models in total, each iteration building on design, performance, and ecosystem integration.
- The early iPhones focused on redefining user interfaces, while recent models push the limits of computational photography, AI-enhanced experiences, and high-performance silicon.
- Entry-level models like the iPhone SE and iPhone 16e aim to bring the Apple experience to broader markets, while Pro models showcase cutting-edge technology.
Conclusion
From the first touchscreen smartphone in 2007 to a diversified 2025 lineup, Apple’s iPhone history reflects both technological evolution and strategic product segmentation. As Apple continues to innovate, future models may further expand form factors and capabilities beyond traditional designs.