The iPhone 8 holds a special place in the Apple ecosystem, bridging the gap between the iPhone 7 and the revolutionary iPhone X. It was a device that seemed to blend the traditional with the cutting-edge, encapsulating the best of both worlds. But when exactly did the iPhone 8 come out? In this article, we’ll delve into its release date, specs, and legacy to give you a comprehensive view.
The Official Release Date
The iPhone 8 was officially unveiled by Apple on September 12, 2017, alongside the iPhone 8 Plus and the flagship iPhone X. The announcement was made at the Steve Jobs Theater, part of Apple’s new Cupertino campus. Pre-orders started on September 15, and the phone became widely available on September 22, 2017.
The Build-up to the Release
As is customary with Apple products, the buzz leading up to the iPhone 8’s release was palpable. Rumors, leaks, and speculations filled the tech blogs for months leading up to the announcement. The hype was not only about the iPhone 8 but also about the iPhone X, which was expected to be a game-changer. Given that 2017 marked the 10th anniversary of the iPhone, expectations were sky-high. The iPhone 8 was seen as the evolutionary step, while the iPhone X was viewed as the revolutionary leap.
The Specs: What Made the iPhone 8 Special?
The iPhone 8 came with several improvements over its predecessor, the iPhone 7:
- Processor: It was powered by the A11 Bionic chip with 64-bit architecture.
- Display: It featured a 4.7-inch Retina HD display, with a resolution of 1334×750 pixels.
- Camera: A 12MP rear camera with optical image stabilization.
- Storage: It was offered in 64GB and 256GB storage options.
- Wireless Charging: For the first time, wireless charging was introduced, thanks to its glass back.
- Operating System: It launched with iOS 11 but is upgradable to newer versions.
Legacy and Impact
While overshadowed by the iPhone X, the iPhone 8 still had a substantial impact on the smartphone market. It was a favorite for those who wanted a robust and reliable device without the price tag of the iPhone X. Its more traditional design appealed to those hesitant to transition to Face ID and a button-less interface. Even today, it remains a popular choice among those looking for a more affordable entry into the Apple ecosystem.
FAQs
When did pre-orders for the iPhone 8 start?
Pre-orders for the iPhone 8 began on September 15, 2017.
Was the iPhone 8 the first to have wireless charging?
Yes, the iPhone 8 was among the first iPhones to support wireless charging, thanks to its glass back design.
What was the initial price of the iPhone 8?
The iPhone 8 started at $699 for the base 64GB model at the time of its release.
How does the iPhone 8 compare to the iPhone 7?
The iPhone 8 offered a variety of improvements over the iPhone 7, including a faster A11 Bionic chip, improved camera, and wireless charging.
Is the iPhone 8 still available for purchase?
As of this article’s last update in September 2023, the iPhone 8 has been discontinued by Apple, but it is still available through third-party retailers and the used phone market.
Conclusion
The iPhone 8 was released on September 22, 2017, and managed to leave a significant mark despite being overshadowed by the iPhone X. Its blend of traditional design elements and modern features made it a popular choice then, and it continues to be a reliable option for many today.
