Apple’s first-generation iPhone debuted in the U.S. on June 29, 2007, introducing a sleek 3.5‑inch touchscreen and a revolutionary software interface under Steve Jobs’ mantra: “Today, Apple is going to reinvent the phone”. Combining an iPod, a phone, and an internet communicator, it integrated features like Safari, email, iTunes, Maps, and visual voicemail.
Immediate Impact & Early Sales
Swiftly becoming a cultural phenomenon, demand surpassed supply—enthusiasts camped outside Apple and AT&T stores, where iPhones sold out by midnight, with two-device limits per customer. It took 74 days to reach 1 million sales, compared to nearly two years for the iPod. By June 2008, Apple had moved over 6 million iPhones.
Evolution & Innovation
- iPhone 3G (2008): Introduced 3G connectivity and launched the App Store with 500 apps, igniting a thriving app ecosystem.
- iPhone 3GS (2009): Added video recording capabilities and a 3.2 MP camera.
- iPhone 4 (2010): Debuted the Retina display, FaceTime, and a stainless-glass design.
- iPhone 4S (2011): Introduced Siri and an 8 MP camera.
- 2012–2017 models: Expanded features including LTE, Touch ID (2013), larger screens in 6/6 Plus (2014), headphone jack removal (7), wireless charging (8), and a dramatic redesign with Face ID and OLED in the iPhone X (2017).
Market Influence & Financial Growth
The iPhone transformed Apple into a global powerhouse. In 2024, Apple reported $390.8 billion in revenue, with iPhones representing 51% of sales and a 17% share of the global smartphone market. Apple’s stock surged from $17.43 at the launch to over $200 by 2025, significantly driven by consistent iPhone performance.
Global Reach & Legacy
With over 2.3 billion iPhones sold since launch, Apple’s product reshaped mobile tech and inspired Android competitors. Despite early criticisms – like its high launch cost and limited features – the iPhone’s foundational software-led design remains unmatched.
A Device That Defined an Era
From its debut in 2007, the iPhone catalyzed a seismic shift in technology and consumer expectations. What began as a beautifully engineered device transformed into a global platform powered by the App Store, perpetual hardware upgrades, and services like Siri, FaceTime, and iMessage. Today, the iPhone sits at the heart of Apple’s ecosystem, fueling unparalleled financial success and shaping the future of mobile innovation.