If you are looking back at Apple’s smartphone history, 2021 was a monumental year. It marked the release of the iPhone 13 series, which refined the design language of the previous generation while introducing massive leaps in battery life, processing power, and camera technology.
In this guide, we will break down exactly what iPhones came out in 2021 and what made each model unique.
The Official Release: The iPhone 13 Lineup
On September 14, 2021, at its “California Streaming” event, Apple officially unveiled four new models. These devices were released to the public on September 24, 2021.
The four models released in 2021 were:
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
Unlike some other years, Apple did not release a new iPhone SE in 2021 (the 2nd Gen was 2020, and the 3rd Gen followed in 2022). Therefore, the 2021 focus was entirely on the flagship 13-series.
1. iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini: The Consumer Favorites
The standard iPhone 13 and its smaller counterpart, the 13 mini, were designed for the everyday user.
Key Features:
- A15 Bionic Chip: Even years later, the A15 remains a powerhouse, offering incredible speed and efficiency.
- Redesigned Camera Layout: This was the year Apple switched to the diagonal dual-lens camera layout to fit larger sensors.
- Smaller Notch: The TrueDepth camera system was shrunk, resulting in a 20% smaller notch at the top of the screen.
- Improved Battery: The iPhone 13 saw a significant jump in battery life compared to the iPhone 12.
2. iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max: The Powerhouses
The “Pro” models in 2021 introduced features that finally bridged the gap between smartphones and professional filmmaking tools.
Key Features:
- ProMotion Technology: This was the first time iPhones featured a 120Hz refresh rate, making scrolling and animations feel incredibly smooth.
- Macro Photography: The Pro models introduced the ability to take extreme close-up photos (as close as 2cm).
- ProRes Video: A feature allowing creators to record and edit high-fidelity video directly on their phones.
- Sierra Blue: Apple introduced a stunning new signature color for the Pro lineup in 2021.
Major Upgrades Shared Across All 2021 Models
Regardless of which 2021 iPhone you chose, Apple implemented several universal upgrades:
- Cinematic Mode: This revolutionary video feature uses rack focus to shift the focus from one subject to another, creating a movie-like depth-of-field effect.
- Base Storage Bump: Apple finally ditched the 64GB entry-level storage. All 2021 iPhones started with at least 128GB of storage.
- Brighter XDR Displays: The screens became significantly brighter, making them easier to see in direct sunlight.
Summary Table: 2021 iPhone Lineup
| Model | Screen Size | Main Feature |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 13 mini | 5.4-inch | Most compact flagship |
| iPhone 13 | 6.1-inch | Best value for most users |
| iPhone 13 Pro | 6.1-inch | 120Hz ProMotion & Telephoto lens |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max | 6.7-inch | Best battery life & largest screen |
Are the 2021 iPhones Still Good Today?
Absolutely. Because the A15 Bionic chip was so far ahead of its time, the iPhones released in 2021 still perform exceptionally well with the latest iOS updates. They offer 5G connectivity, excellent cameras, and battery life that rivals many newer mid-range smartphones.
If you are looking for a reliable, powerful iPhone without paying the “latest model” premium, the iPhone 13 series remains one of the best choices on the market.