Among fruit Species, apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) is characterized by a large phenotypic diversity due to its geographical origins and phylogenetic structures. At the same time, apricot production is deeply evolving under the pressure of breeding programmes. Are cent increase of new registered cultivars has raised a strong interest in apricot, especially in Europe. Currently, modifications on fruit quality attributes have been observed. To estimate its incidence, 237 cultivars registered between 1950 and 2006 were analysed. Representative fruit samples collecte d at the maturity stage in collection or chards were observed from 2003 to 2007. Harvest period and fruit quality attributes have been characterized: fruit weight, fruit firmness, ground and colours, soluble solids content and titratable acidity. The incidence of genetic and geographic origins on fruit quality attributes were evaluated according to there gistration period. France and the United States were the mostimportant cultivar providers in the registration process. An enlargement of the genetic basis of the breeding stocks was observed with the use of new parents such as 'Goldrich' and 'Oranged'. An extension of the harvest scas on has been recenty observed. Significant increases in fruit weight and blush colourc all be explained by the use of new parents; while no significant variations on fruit firmness, soluble solids content and titratable acidity were observed due to the enlargement of the variability in the last registered cultivars.