Did you know that the iPhone has sold over 1 billion units since its debut in 2007? This iconic device has not only transformed the smartphone industry but also reshaped our daily lives. From its secretive beginnings under the code name "Purple" to its role in making Google rethink its phone plans, the iPhone's journey is filled with intriguing milestones. Whether it's the fact that the first iPhone call was a prank to Starbucks or that its retina screen is the most expensive part, each detail adds to its legacy. Dive into these 50 facts to uncover the story behind one of the world's most beloved gadgets.
Key Takeaways:
- The iPhone has sold over 1 billion units, earning Apple an average of 849,450 sales per day in 2018. Its impact on culture and market loyalty is undeniable, with 83.4% of iPhone users planning to stick with the brand for their next device.
- Apple's market capitalization is larger than all but four countries in the world, and its financial strength is evident in its $691,234.57 per minute earnings in the first quarter of 2021. The iPhone's impact on technology and sales is truly mind-blowing.
The iPhone's Impact on Sales and Technology
The iPhone has not only changed how we communicate but also how we interact with technology. Here are some mind-blowing facts about its sales and technological advancements.
-
Apple Has Sold Over 1 Billion iPhones
Since its release in 2007, Apple has sold over 1 billion iPhones. This milestone was revealed by CEO Tim Cook during the iPhone 7 reveal in 2016. -
200 Patents, 1 iPhone
Apple has filed more than 200 patents related to the iPhone’s technology. These patents have led to new and improved ways for publishers and developers to interact with users. -
Global Sales of iPhone from 2007 to 2015
The global sale of iPhones from 2007 to 2015 was around 820 million units. Specifically in 2015, more than 231 million iPhones were sold. -
Apple Sold 849,450 iPhones Per Day in 2018
In 2018, Apple sold an average of 849,450 iPhones per day. This impressive sales figure highlights the iPhone’s enduring popularity. -
Apple Earned $691,234.57 Per Minute in the First Quarter of 2021
In the first quarter of 2021, Apple earned $691,234.57 per minute. This incredible revenue demonstrates Apple’s financial strength and market dominance.
The iPhone's Development and Design
The journey of the iPhone from concept to reality involved many interesting twists and turns. Let's explore some fascinating facts about its development and design.
-
The Original iPhone Project Was Top Secret
The original iPhone project was top secret. Steve Jobs told Scott Forstall to build the iPhone, but he couldn't tell the team what they would be working on. The code name for the project was "Purple," and only current Apple employees were allowed to be part of it. -
The Macworld 2007 Demo Had to Be Highly Scripted
When Steve Jobs introduced the iPhone at Macworld in 2007, he had to follow a precise scripted sequence of inputs to avoid crashing the phone with unintended bugs. This was a common practice in hardware and software development to ensure smooth demonstrations. -
Apple Designed a Landline Phone with a Stylus in 1983
In 1983, Apple computer developer Hartmut Esslinger designed a landline phone that used a stylus-controlled interface. Although it never saw the light of day, this project is an interesting footnote in Apple's history with connected phones. -
It Started Out as a Tablet Project
Steve Jobs wanted Apple engineers to research various tablet designs with virtual keyboards. When they returned with a device featuring multitouch functionality, Jobs thought that Apple could apply that technology to a phone, leading to the development of the iPhone. -
The Retina Screen is the Most Expensive Part of the iPhone
The retina screen, which provides extreme crispness for texts and images, is the most expensive part of the iPhone. Just the screen costs around $200, while the entire iPhone costs around $549.
The iPhone's Cultural and Market Influence
The iPhone has had a significant impact on culture and the market. Here are some intriguing facts that highlight its influence.
-
The iPhone Made Google Do a 180 on Its Phone Plans
Prior to the launch of the iPhone, Google was developing its own phone operating system without plans for touch screens. However, after seeing Steve Jobs' unveiling, Google went back to the drawing board and eventually developed Android, which has become a major competitor to iOS. -
iPhone Users Are More Loyal Than Other Smartphone Users
A survey by RBC Capital Markets found that 83.4% of iPhone users said their next device would be an iPhone, compared to 64.2% of Samsung owners. This loyalty gives app publishers a solid consumer base when iPhone owners upgrade every year or two. -
The iPhone Has Changed the Way We Spend Time
Without the iPhone, it's hard to predict just how much our daily routines would have changed. The iPhone has become an essential tool for communication, entertainment, and information, significantly altering how we spend our time. -
33% of People Open Emails on an iPhone
Approximately 33% of people in the world open emails on their iPhones. This statistic highlights the significant role iPhones play in daily communication. -
Facebook is the Most Popular iPhone App
Facebook is the most popular app for the iPhone, followed closely by Facebook Messenger, which has crossed the 1 billion user mark worldwide.
Interesting Tidbits and Fun Facts
Beyond its technological and market impact, the iPhone has some fun and quirky facts associated with it. Here are a few that might surprise you.
-
Time is Always 9:41 in Every iPhone Ad
Every Apple event starts at 9 AM, and the ads are timed to show 40 minutes after the beginning of the event. This timing is why the time is always set to 9:41 in every iPhone ad. -
The First Ever iPhone Call Was Made to Starbucks
Steve Jobs made the first ever iPhone call to Starbucks after its launch in 2007. He ordered 4,000 lattes but canceled the order immediately, making it a prank call. -
Apple’s First Computer Sold for $666.66
Apple’s first computer, the Apple I, sold for $666.66. This unique pricing is often attributed to the fact that Ronald Wayne, one of the co-founders, thought it was a lucky number. -
Apple’s First Logo Featured Isaac Newton
The first Apple logo, drawn by Ronald Wayne, depicted Isaac Newton under an apple tree. This iconic design has since been modified but remains a significant part of Apple’s history. -
Apple Launched a Clothing Line in 1986
In 1986, Apple launched a clothing line called "Apple Casual Wear." Although it was short-lived, it marked one of the company's early forays into non-tech products.
Partnerships and Collaborations
Apple has collaborated with various companies to bring the iPhone to life. Here are some interesting facts about these partnerships.
-
Samsung Makes the Processors for iPhone
Despite being arch-rivals in the smartphone market, Samsung manufactures the processors for iPhones. This partnership is crucial for meeting Apple's mass production requirements. -
Samsung Manufactures the iPad’s Retina Display
Samsung manufactures the retina display for Apple’s iPads. This partnership ensures high-quality screens for Apple devices. -
Samsung Makes Retina Displays and OLED Displays Used in Apple Devices
Samsung makes retina displays and OLED displays used in Apple devices. This partnership ensures high-quality screens for Apple products. -
SIRI Was Planned to Be Released on Android and BlackBerry
SIRI was originally planned to be released on Android and BlackBerry devices before Apple acquired SIRI Inc. in 2010. -
Apple is Developing a Wireless Charging Mat Called AirPower
Apple is developing a wireless charging mat called AirPower, which can charge multiple devices at once, such as the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. The product was first announced in 2017 but was delayed due to technical challenges and is expected to launch in 2024.
Financial and Market Achievements
Apple's financial achievements are as impressive as its technological innovations. Here are some facts that highlight its market dominance.
-
Apple’s Market Cap Is Larger Than All but Four Countries
Apple’s market capitalization is larger than all but four countries in the world. This significant financial standing underscores the company’s global influence. -
Apple Inc’s Market Cap Is Bigger Than 25 Countries
Apple Inc’s market capitalization is bigger than the GDP of 25 countries in the world. This staggering figure underscores Apple’s financial prowess. -
In Early 2015, Apple Became the First Ever $700 Billion Company
In early 2015, Apple became the first ever $700 billion company. This significant milestone underscores Apple’s financial strength and market dominance. -
Apple Had Over 140,000 Employees Around the World in 2020
As of 2020, Apple had over 140,000 employees worldwide. This significant workforce is essential for maintaining Apple’s global operations and innovation. -
Apple Sold 232 Million iPhones, 61 Million iPads, and 26 Million Mac and MacBook Units in 2022
In 2022, Apple sold 232 million iPhones, 61 million iPads, and 26 million Mac and MacBook units. This impressive sales figure highlights the enduring popularity of Apple’s products.
Innovations and Future Projects
Apple continues to innovate and explore new frontiers. Here are some exciting facts about their latest projects and future plans.
-
Apple Launched a New Device Called the Vision Pro in June 2023
In June 2023, Apple launched a new device called the Vision Pro, which is a virtual reality headset that integrates with the iPhone and other Apple products. -
Apple is Rumored to Be Working on a Self-Driving Car Project Codenamed Titan
Apple is rumored to be working on a self-driving car project codenamed Titan, which could launch by 2025. -
Apple Released New MacBook Pros with 14-Inch and 16-Inch Mini-LED Displays
In 2023, Apple released new MacBook Pros with 14-inch and 16-inch mini-LED displays, a redesigned Mac Pro with a modular design, and an updated full-sized HomePod with improved sound quality and Siri integration. -
The First Hard Disc for Apple II Had a Storage Capacity of Five Megabytes
The first hard disc for Apple II had a storage capacity of five megabytes. This early storage technology was a significant advancement for personal computers. -
Apple’s Products Are Known for Their Premium Safety Features
Apple’s products are known for their premium safety features. For example, the MacBook Pro can stop a .22 caliber and a 9mm handgun bullet.
Privacy and Security
Apple places a high priority on privacy and security. Here are some facts that highlight their commitment to protecting user data.
-
Apple is Particular About Customers’ Privacy
Apple is so particular about its customers’ privacy that it even refused the FBI when it approached Apple to unlock a terrorist’s iPhone. This commitment to privacy underscores Apple’s dedication to protecting user data. -
Carl Sagan Sued Apple Twice
Carl Sagan, the famous astronomer, sued Apple twice over the use of his name and image in Apple’s advertising. The cases were eventually settled out of court. -
Apple Posts Intro Videos Whenever It Launches a New Product
Apple posts intro videos whenever it launches a new product. If you look closely at those videos, you’ll find that Jonathan Ive, Apple’s lead designer, has worn the same T-shirt in such videos. -
Apple’s Home and Wearables Division Declined by 3.6% in 2023
Apple’s home and wearables division declined by 3.6% in 2023 due to increased competition from Samsung, Google, and Amazon. -
The World’s Most Valuable Brands Are Apple, Google, Microsoft & Amazon
The world’s most valuable brands are Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Amazon. Recently, Apple overtook Google as the most valuable brand in the world.
Miscellaneous Facts
Here are some additional interesting facts about Apple and the iPhone that don't fit neatly into other categories but are still worth knowing.
-
Apple’s First Logo Depicted Isaac Newton Under an Apple Tree
The first Apple logo, drawn by Ronald Wayne, featured Isaac Newton under an apple tree. This iconic design has since been modified but remains a significant part of Apple’s history. -
Every Apple iPhone Ad Displays the Time as 9:41 AM
Every Apple iPhone ad displays the time as 9:41 AM, commemorating the time Steve Jobs unveiled the original iPhone in 2007. -
The Creator of the iPod First Offered the Idea to Philips and RealNetworks
The creator of the iPod first offered the idea to Philips and RealNetworks but they failed to see its potential. However, Apple persevered and created one of the most iconic music players in history. -
The iPod Almost Didn’t Exist
The iPod almost didn’t exist due to Philips and RealNetworks failing to see its potential. However, Apple persevered and created one of the most iconic music players in history. -
Apple’s Products Are Known for Their Premium Safety Features
Apple’s products are known for their premium safety features. For example, the MacBook Pro can stop a .22 caliber and a 9mm handgun bullet. -
Apple’s Market Cap Is Larger Than All but Four Countries
Apple’s market capitalization is larger than all but four countries in the world. This significant financial standing underscores the company’s global influence. -
Apple Inc’s Market Cap Is Bigger Than 25 Countries
Apple Inc’s market capitalization is bigger than the GDP of 25 countries in the world. This staggering figure underscores Apple’s financial prowess. -
In Early 2015, Apple Became the First Ever $700 Billion Company
In early 2015, Apple became the first ever $700 billion company. This significant milestone underscores Apple’s financial strength and market dominance. -
Apple Had Over 140,000 Employees Around the World in 2020
As of 2020, Apple had over 140,000 employees worldwide. This significant workforce is essential for maintaining Apple’s global operations and innovation. -
Apple Sold 232 Million iPhones, 61 Million iPads, and 26 Million Mac and MacBook Units in 2022
In 2022, Apple sold 232 million iPhones, 61 million iPads, and 26 million Mac and MacBook units. This impressive sales figure highlights the enduring popularity of Apple’s products.
The iPhone's Lasting Impact
The iPhone has undeniably transformed our world since its debut in 2007. With over 1 billion units sold, it's clear this device has left a significant mark. From its top-secret origins to its role in reshaping Google's phone plans, the iPhone's journey is filled with fascinating milestones. Its retina screen, the most expensive part, and the first-ever call to Starbucks are just a few highlights. The iPhone's influence extends beyond tech, impacting daily routines, communication, and even advertising. With loyal users and a constant stream of innovations, the iPhone remains a cornerstone of modern technology. As Apple continues to push boundaries with projects like Vision Pro and self-driving cars, the iPhone's legacy will undoubtedly endure, shaping the future in ways we can't yet imagine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was this page helpful?
Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.