Why There Is No iPhone 9: Reasons Behind the Jump to iPhone X

Apple's decision to skip the iPhone 9 and jump directly from the iPhone 8 to the iPhone X (pronounced "ten") in 2017 can be attributed to several strategic and symbolic reasons:

#1. 10th Anniversary of the iPhone

2017 marked the 10th anniversary of the original iPhone's launch in 2007. Naming the new model the iPhone X was a way to commemorate this milestone.

#2. Significant Technological Leap

The iPhone X represented a major technological leap over its predecessors, introducing features like an edge-to-edge OLED display, Face ID, and the removal of the home button. The name change to "X" emphasized the significant evolution in design and functionality.

#3. Marketing and Branding Strategy

Skipping the iPhone 9 helped to differentiate the iPhone X from previous models and signal a new era of iPhone technology. It created a perception of a more advanced and futuristic device, aligning with Apple's premium branding.

#4. Symmetry with macOS Naming

Apple's macOS (formerly OS X) was at version 10 (X) for many years before transitioning to macOS 11. This established a precedent within Apple's product lines for using the Roman numeral "X" to denote significant versions or milestones.

By choosing the iPhone X, Apple aimed to highlight the innovation and significance of this particular model, reinforcing its position as a leader in smartphone technology.