If you have ever wondered when did the iPhone 11 come out, the clear answer is: Apple announced it on September 10, 2019, opened pre-orders on September 13, 2019, and released it officially on September 20, 2019. This marked another major milestone in Apple’s annual iPhone launch tradition.
The iPhone 11 was part of a three-model lineup, alongside the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max. It quickly became Apple’s best-selling model of 2019 thanks to its lower price point, strong performance, and improved camera system.
Even in 2025, knowing when did the iPhone 11 come out is still relevant for buyers, sellers, and tech enthusiasts — especially those interested in second-hand devices, software update timelines, or Apple’s product evolution. Let’s dive into its launch history, features, and ongoing relevance.
The Official Launch Timeline
When people search when did the iPhone 11 come out, they’re often looking for a straightforward answer — but the full picture involves more than just one date. The iPhone 11’s release followed Apple’s tradition of unveiling new models in early September, with a carefully choreographed rollout that maximized hype and sales.
Here’s the expanded breakdown of how it happened:
- September 10, 2019 — Official Announcement: Apple hosted its annual keynote event at the Steve Jobs Theater in Cupertino, California. Alongside the iPhone 11, Apple revealed the iPhone 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, a new iPad, and the Apple Watch Series 5. The announcement confirmed the rumors of upgraded cameras, improved battery life, and bold new colors.
- September 13, 2019 — Pre-orders Begin: At precisely 5:00 a.m. Pacific Time, pre-orders went live in more than 30 countries. Demand for the purple and green models was so high that shipping estimates slipped within minutes.
- September 20, 2019 — Official Release Date: This is the date that fully answers the question when did the iPhone 11 come out. On this Friday morning, customers lined up outside Apple Stores worldwide. Retail partners and carriers also released stock, and thousands of units were delivered to early online buyers.
By covering all three milestones — announcement, pre-order, and release — buyers and sellers can better understand the market history of this device.
iPhone 11 in 2019 — What Made It Stand Out
Understanding when did the iPhone 11 come out is only part of the story. The real excitement comes from why it made such a splash in 2019. Apple positioned the iPhone 11 as the successor to the iPhone XR, offering significant improvements without raising the price.
Design and Color Options
The iPhone 11 introduced a more refined yet playful aesthetic.
- Colors: Purple and green were brand-new additions that instantly became fan favorites, joining yellow, black, white, and PRODUCT(RED).
- Build: The aerospace-grade aluminum frame paired with precision-engineered glass made it durable and premium-feeling. Apple also claimed it had “the toughest glass ever in a smartphone” at that time.
- Display: The 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display offered vivid colors and True Tone technology for comfortable viewing in all lighting conditions.
Hardware and Performance
- Processor: The A13 Bionic chip was not only faster than any competing smartphone processor in 2019, but it also improved power efficiency, giving users longer battery life.
- Camera: The dual-camera system was a massive leap from the XR’s single lens. The new Ultra Wide lens allowed for a 120-degree field of view, while Night Mode transformed low-light photography.
- Video Recording: The ability to shoot 4K video at 60 fps with extended dynamic range meant that even casual users could capture cinematic footage.
Software Integration
The iPhone 11 launched with iOS 13, which included:
- Dark Mode: System-wide dark theme for better night-time usability.
- Sign In with Apple: A privacy-focused login alternative to Google or Facebook accounts.
- Updated Maps: More detailed city data and street-level views.
Even years after when did the iPhone 11 come out, these software features remain useful, and many are still staples in iOS today.
The iPhone 11 in 2025 — Still Worth It?
Many people today still search when did the iPhone 11 come out not just for curiosity, but to decide if it’s worth buying in the refurbished market.
Current Availability
While Apple discontinued the iPhone 11 from its official lineup, the model is thriving in the second-hand market. Refurbished units are available through Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store, Amazon Renewed, carrier trade-in programs, and independent sellers. Prices are significantly lower than at launch, making it a budget-friendly choice for those who want an iPhone without paying flagship prices.
Knowing when did the iPhone 11 come out helps buyers estimate the phone’s remaining lifespan. For example, as of 2025, the device is nearly six years old, but thanks to Apple’s long-term update policy, it’s still supported.
Ongoing Software Support
Apple typically supports iPhones for 6–7 years from launch. The iPhone 11 continues to receive iOS updates, meaning it still benefits from security patches, app compatibility, and new features. This is a strong selling point for anyone considering a used iPhone 11.
For everyday users — checking emails, using social media, streaming videos — the iPhone 11 in 2025 is still a very capable device.
Why the Release Date Still Matters
Some might think the question when did the iPhone 11 come out is only relevant to history buffs, but in reality, it’s important for practical reasons.
For Buyers
- Lifespan Prediction: Knowing the exact release year helps you predict how many years of iOS updates are left.
- Battery Health: Older phones may require a battery replacement; knowing the age helps you budget for that.
- Value Assessment: Helps determine if the asking price for a used iPhone 11 is reasonable.
For Sellers and Recyclers
- Pricing Strategy: The closer a model gets to losing iOS support, the more its resale value drops.
- Marketing Appeal: Listing “Released September 20, 2019” in a product description can reassure buyers about the phone’s history and capabilities.
In short, the answer to when did the iPhone 11 come out can guide smart buying, selling, and upgrade decisions.
Price Trends Since Launch
When answering when did the iPhone 11 come out, it’s also useful to know how its price has evolved:
- 2019 launch price: $699
- 2020: $599
- 2021: $499
- 2022: $399
- 2023: $350
- 2024: $300
- 2025: Around $250 in refurbished markets
Conclusion
To summarize, when did the iPhone 11 come out? It was announced September 10, 2019, pre-orders opened September 13, and it launched September 20. This model brought meaningful upgrades in performance, camera quality, and design while maintaining a reasonable price point.
In 2025, the iPhone 11 still stands as a reliable, budget-friendly iPhone option, especially for those who value ongoing software support and proven durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. When did the iPhone 11 come out?
The iPhone 11 was released on September 20, 2019, after being announced on September 10 and available for pre-order on September 13.
Q2. Was the iPhone 11 launched with other models?
Yes, it launched alongside the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max.
Q3. Why is it important to know when did the iPhone 11 come out?
It helps assess its age, expected lifespan, and market value.
Q4. Is the iPhone 11 still worth buying in 2025?
Yes, it offers good performance, ongoing iOS updates, and lower cost compared to newer models.
Q5. How long will the iPhone 11 get iOS updates?
Likely until 2026 or later, based on Apple’s update patterns.
Q6. What colors did the iPhone 11 come in?
Purple, green, yellow, black, white, and PRODUCT(RED).
Q7. How much did the iPhone 11 cost when it came out?
It started at $699 for the base model.
Q8. Can I still buy a new iPhone 11 from Apple?
No, Apple has discontinued it, but it’s available refurbished or from third-party sellers.
