The first iPhone came 19 years ago, this is how the way of using phones changed in two decades
Uma Shankar July 01, 2026 12:24 PM
There is still time for the iPhone 18 Series to arrive, but Apple's original iPhone was released almost two decades ago, after which the way of using the phone changed. first iPhone Reached customers in the US on June 29, 2007. With this phone, customers got a touchscreen experience, after which other companies also started launching touchscreen phones in the market. Almost two decades have passed and since the arrival of the first iPhone, the way we use phones has changed a lot.
As Apple prepares for the next phase with the upcoming iPhone 18 lineup, the biggest legacy of the original iPhone remains the same. It not only introduced a new device, but also changed people's expectations from phones. Every major smartphone coming in the market today, irrespective of the brand, is based on the same ideas which first reached the customers 19 years ago.
A lot has changed in two decades
Touchscreen has become the industry standard: The original iPhone demonstrated that a large touchscreen could replace physical buttons, which influenced smartphone design across all brands.
Apps have become the main part of smartphone: App stores gave developers a direct way to reach users, making smartphones the platform for almost every digital service.
Navigation made easy: Today, navigation tools like maps and GPS are available in smartphones, which has made everyday navigation much easier.
AI incorporated into everyday life: The latest iPhones bring AI-powered writing tools, image editing, and productivity features straight to users, and iOS 27 is going to make it even better with Gemini-powered integration throughout the operating system.
Work is no longer limited to the desk: Email, video meetings and document editing can now be done from almost anywhere.
Phones become digital identity hubs: Boarding pass, digital key and ID proof are now mostly available in smartphones.
Phones now become digital wallets: Mobile payment has reduced dependence on cash and physical cards.
