While primarily focused on the iPod, Fadell's team also explored early concepts for what would eventually become the iPhone. The technological base and UI advancements made with the iPod were critical to the early iPhone concepting.

The iPhone was launched to widespread acclaim. While Fadell wasn't the primary leader on the iPhone project, his work on the iPod was instrumental in establishing Apple's expertise in portable devices and user interface design, paving the way for the iPhone's success.

Continued to contribute his expertise during the initial ramp-up and subsequent generations of the iPhone. The teams were deeply connected during those initial stages of iPhone development.