The name of new iPhones follows Apple's numbered series since 2016, with the latest being iPhone 15 (2023). Apple typically releases three models per year: a base model (e.g., iPhone 15), a Pro version (iPhone 15 Pro), and a Pro Max variant (iPhone 15 Pro Max).
Apple's iPhone naming convention has evolved since the first iPhone in 2007. The original iPhone had no number, and the iPhone 3G introduced the numeric suffix. From 2016 onward, Apple adopted a yearly numbering system, resetting with each new design cycle.
Before 2016, Apple used a mix of numeric suffixes and descriptive names. For example:
Since 2016, Apple has used a consistent numbering system tied to major redesigns. The iPhone 7 (2016) marked the start of this era. Each new base number (e.g., iPhone 12, iPhone 14) signifies a significant redesign, while incremental updates keep the same number but add "Pro" or "Pro Max" variants.
| Series | Release Year | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 13 series | 2021 | Improved cameras, A15 Bionic chip |
| iPhone 14 series | 2022 | Changing Island, improved batteries |
| iPhone 15 series | 2023 | USB-C port, titanium frames |
Apple uses numbering to signal major updates and redesigns. For example, the iPhone 12 (2020) introduced 5G support and a flat-edged design, while the iPhone 15 (2023) switched to USB-C. This helps consumers understand the significance of each new model.
Many people assume that each new iPhone number indicates a completely new device. However, some years see incremental updates with the same base number but different suffixes (e.g., iPhone 13 Pro vs. iPhone 13 Pro Max)., the "SE" models, like the iPhone SE (2020), are budget-friendly versions with older designs but newer internals.
One non-obvious fact is that Apple sometimes skips numbers for marketing reasons. For example, the iPhone 9 was never released; instead, Apple jumped to the iPhone 11 in 2019 to align with the 10th anniversary of the iPhone.
When the iPhone 13 was released, I waited for the iPhone 13 Pro Max due to its improved camera system. The naming convention made it clear that this was a significant upgrade over the iPhone 12 Pro Max, despite both having "Pro Max" in their names. The iPhone 13 series introduced better low-light photography and a more useful chip, making the upgrade worthwhile.