Apple released the iPhone 13 on September 24, 2021. Its announcement was September 14, with preorders from September 17. The mini, Pro and Pro Max arrived that September too. Green finishes followed in March 2022.
The original iPhone 13 release was September 24, 2021
Apple says iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini became available on September 24 in its original launch announcement. The September 14 date at the top of that release is the announcement.
Apple's arrival-day report confirms the lineup went on sale on September 24. It names iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max together.
Status: iPhone 13's 2021 launch and March 2022 green finishes checked against Apple's original announcements on 24 October 2026. No current support-end date is inferred.
For a simple release-date answer, September 24, 2021, is the first sale date. A later purchase or local-market arrival does not change the model's original launch year.
Why a green iPhone 13 can have a 2022 date
Apple states that the green iPhone 13 and 13 mini, plus alpine green Pro and Pro Max, became available on March 18, 2022. Its green-finish announcement was published March 8.
That explains a 2022 date attached to the green version. It identifies the new finish's arrival, rather than a new iPhone 13 generation. A seller's later purchase date is another possible explanation.
Confirm the model before using the date
Apple documents 2021 as the introduction year for these models in its identification guide. Check the full model name in Settings > General > About, then compare the model number if identification is uncertain.
The launch year cannot tell when that individual phone was assembled or first bought. Keep the purchase receipt for a purchase-history question rather than trying to calculate it from the model name.
For accessories, the iPhone 13 connector guide identifies the phone's Lightning socket. A cable described as USB-C can refer to its power-adapter end, so the year alone is not enough to choose a cable.
Judge an older unit by its condition
A used phone from this generation needs a condition check even when its model and release date are correct. Apple's used-iPhone guidance covers damage, battery condition, cameras and Activation Lock.
For battery information, the missing Battery Health explanation separates an older model's available readings from newer iPhones' extra fields. Missing cycle-count information does not change the handset's launch date.
Ask the seller for an inspection and purchase records if the unit's condition is unclear. For identification or service, contact Apple Support. The release date cannot establish its remaining useful life.
The Short Version
iPhone 13's first sale was September 24, 2021. Announcement and preorders came earlier that month. Green and alpine green finishes arrived March 18, 2022. Use the full model name and individual records when checking a specific handset.
Isaac Smith is the founder and editor of PC Glance, a website that covers computers, laptops, and technology. He is a tech enthusiast and a computer geek who loves to share his insights and help his readers make smart choices when buying tech gadgets or laptops. He is always curious and updated about the latest tech trends.