The journey from 4GB to 1024GB storage has been remarkable for the iPhone, which started its legacy 18 years ago today when Steve Jobs first introduced it to the public back in 2007.
In addition, Apple kicked off pre-orders for the original Apple TV following Jobs’ sneak peek of what was then referred to as iTV in September 2006. Below are links to both keynotes and the associated press releases:
iPhone
Check out the original keynote presentation here:
Here’s an excerpt from the very first press release:
Apple Reinvents the Phone with iPhone
MACWORLD SAN FRANCISCO—January 9, 2007—Apple® today unveiled the iPhone, which merges three devices—a game-changing mobile phone, a widescreen iPod® featuring touch controls, and an innovative Internet communications device that offers desktop-class email, web browsing, searching, and maps—all within a compact and lightweight handheld gadget. The iPhone introduces a completely new user interface powered by a large multi-touch display and groundbreaking new software, enabling users to manage the device simply with their fingertips. This evolution in software capability and sophistication changes the mobile phone experience forever.
“iPhone is a revolutionary and magical product that is literally five years ahead of any other mobile phone,” stated Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO. “We all come equipped with the ultimate pointing device—our fingers—and the iPhone harnesses them to deliver the most revolutionary user experience since the mouse.”
An interesting reflection as we look back 18 years later. You can read the full press release here. Additionally, here’s a piece of trivia concerning the agreement between Apple and Cisco regarding the iPhone name:
Cisco and Apple Reach Agreement on iPhone Trademark
SAN JOSE and CUPERTINO, California—February 21, 2007—Cisco and Apple® today announced the resolution of their dispute concerning the “iPhone” trademark. Under this agreement, both companies are permitted to utilize the “iPhone” trademark on their respective products globally. Both parties acknowledge the granted trademark ownership rights and will discontinue any ongoing actions pertaining to the trademark. Furthermore, Cisco and Apple will seek avenues for collaboration in security, as well as consumer and enterprise communications. Other specifics of the agreement remain confidential.
Apple TV, formerly known as iTV
Although the Apple TV was highlighted again during the original iPhone event, it was first previewed by Steve Jobs a few months earlier under the name iTV. However, a trademark dispute with the British television channel ITV made it unnecessary to continue using that name, leading to the creation of the Apple TV box (and subsequently, the Apple TV app and service).
The first Apple press release to mention this set-top device occurs during the announcement of iTunes 7. This release includes a whimsical footnote not usually found in other press releases:
Additionally, the iTunes Store (www.itunes.com) is now offering over 75 movies from Walt Disney Pictures, Pixar, Touchstone Pictures, and Miramax Films that customers can purchase and download to view on their computers and iPods, and shortly on their flat-screen televisions with Apple’s forthcoming iTV* player.
[…]
* iTV is merely the internal code name for this project and will not be its final product name.
Evolution of Boilerplate Text
The reusable boilerplate text at the end of Apple’s press releases has seen fascinating changes over the years. Consider the conclusion of the iTV press release:
Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and redefined personal computing in the 1980s with the Macintosh. Today, Apple remains at the forefront of innovation with its award-winning desktop and laptop computers, OS X operating system, as well as its iLife and professional software. Apple is also taking the lead in the digital music landscape with its iPod portable media players and the iTunes online music store.
Recognizing that the iPhone was just around the corner, Apple updated the closing boilerplate text to incorporate the iPhone in a March announcement regarding Apple TV’s availability:
Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and redefined personal computing in the 1980s with the Macintosh. Today, Apple continues to lead the world in innovation with its acclaimed computers, OS X operating system, and a variety of applications for both creative and professional use. Apple is also spearheading the digital media revolution with its iPod portable music and video devices and its iTunes online marketplace, and is set to enter the mobile phone industry this year with its groundbreaking iPhone.
Fast forward 18 years, and here’s how that boilerplate text has developed:
Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple stands as a leader in innovation with products like the iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms—iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS—offer seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empowers users through breakthrough services such as the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s workforce of over 150,000 individuals is committed to creating outstanding products while striving to leave the world in a better place than they found it.
Who else is feeling 210 years old right now? Happy birthday to the iPhone!
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