The iPhone 7, released in 2016, marked a significant step in Apple's mobile device history. While the phone is no longer actively sold by Apple, understanding its original availability date and the surrounding hype remains relevant, particularly for those interested in the history of Apple products or considering purchasing a refurbished model.
The official announcement of the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus took place on September 7, 2016, during Apple's annual September event. Pre-orders opened shortly after the announcement, on September 9th, 2016. This allowed customers to secure their device in advance and plan for its arrival. The official release date for the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus was September 16th, 2016, in various countries including the US, Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, the UK and more. However, availability varied slightly depending on location and carrier.
What were the key features that made the iPhone 7 so popular?
The iPhone 7 brought several key improvements over its predecessor. These included:
- Improved Water Resistance: The iPhone 7 boasted an IP67 rating, offering protection against dust and water immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. This was a major upgrade for Apple smartphones.
- A10 Fusion Chip: This powerful processor delivered significant performance enhancements compared to the iPhone 6s, providing smoother multitasking and improved gaming capabilities.
- Stereo Speakers: Dual speakers offered a richer, more immersive audio experience than previous iPhones, improving the overall multimedia experience.
- Enhanced Cameras: Both the front and rear cameras saw improvements, resulting in sharper, clearer photos and videos, especially in low-light conditions.
- Removal of the Headphone Jack: This controversial decision sparked much debate but paved the way for the adoption of wireless earbuds and improved internal design.
How long were the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus available for purchase?
Apple continued to sell the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus until the release of the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus in September 2017. After this, the devices were officially discontinued as new models were released. However, refurbished and used models are still readily available from various third-party sellers.
Where could I buy an iPhone 7 now?
While no longer directly available from Apple, you can find used or refurbished iPhone 7 models from various sources, including online marketplaces like eBay and Swappa, and authorized third-party retailers. It is crucial to carefully vet the seller before making a purchase to ensure the device's authenticity and condition.
What are the differences between iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus?
The main differences between the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus revolved around the screen size and camera capabilities:
- Screen Size: The iPhone 7 featured a 4.7-inch display, while the iPhone 7 Plus boasted a larger 5.5-inch display.
- Camera: The iPhone 7 had a single 12MP rear camera, while the iPhone 7 Plus featured a dual 12MP rear camera system with a telephoto lens, enabling 2x optical zoom and a depth-of-field effect for portrait mode photography.
What are the common issues with the iPhone 7?
Like any electronic device, the iPhone 7 isn't immune to potential issues. Some common problems reported by users include battery degradation over time, charging issues, and occasional touchscreen malfunctions. These issues are generally more prevalent in older or heavily used devices.
Understanding the iPhone 7's availability date and its features provides valuable context for anyone interested in its legacy or considering purchasing a used model. Remember to thoroughly research any used purchase to ensure it's in good working order.
