Purchasing the iPhone is typically a lifelong endeavor. Whether it was either bought on the internet or given as a gift or bought second-hand, it is natural to find one wanting to know precisely which that model is, whether they were manufactured or purchased used (refurbished or not). Apple makes this extremely easy to know – just iPhone Model Number check/Part Number in iPhone settings. Let’s go throught the way this information is to be looked up and what it means.
How to Find the Model Number of Your iPhone
- Open your iPhone Settings.
- Tap General.
- Tap About.
- Also check for Model Number or Model Name.
The first letter is a narrative letter.
Coding of the First Letter of the Model Number
M- Brand New
The iPhone is new from Apple or Apple Authorized Store.
F- Refurbished by Apple
Apple had the iPhone fixed, inspected, and repackaged.
N- Replacement Device
Apple gave this iPhone as replacement on service or warranty.
P- Personalized / Customized
The iPhone was engravable or custom embellished at the time of purchase.
So, for example:
If your model number begins with an M your iPhone was sold brand new.
If it says F it means that it is refurbished and Apple certified not repaired by 3rd party.
How to Check if iPhone is Refurbished with Box?
If you still have the original box:
- You need to take a look at the labeling at the back.
- Apple refurbished boxes are plain white boxes typically and will have the words Apple Certified Refurbished written on them.
- iPhones are packaged in retail packaging with names of the colors.
However, many refurbished or trade-in phones do not come with a box, and there is no better way to check than by checking through Settings.
Please Check Model Identifier (Axxxx Number).
And just underneath the part number, you will find another code that begins with A such as A2483 or A2633.
This number tells you of the region and network compatibility of your iPhone.
To view:
- Go to Settings → General → About
- Look for the number that starts with an A.
This helps to check that your iPhone is made of :
- India (HN/A)
- USA (LL/A)
- Europe (EU/A)
- Middle East, Japan, or others
This is especially good when buying used or imported equipment.
Examine Battery Health for Signs
If a phone is “used” but is actually being marketed as new, battery health may serve as an indicator for the use history.
- Open Settings.
- Go to Battery Health & Charging Battery.
- Check Maximum Capacity.
98–100% → Usually new or lightly used
85–95% → Used for several months
Below 80% – The battery is worn and probably will have to be replaced.
Tip: All the refurbished Apple units have replacement battery, so they usually have healthy 100%.
Refer to Warranty or Apple Support Status
It checks the time that the iPhone was first switched on.
- Visit: Settings -> General -> About -> Coverage
- Or visit the Apple’s device look up page and enter the serial number.
If the date of coverage was established much earlier the cover is started and device is used or refurbished. If the coverage has not yet begun, or has just begun for the individual, then the coverage is new or activated.
Why You Should Care the iPhone Was Refurbished?
There is absolutely nothing wrong with buying refurbished as in fact any Apple certified refurbished device goes through rigorous testing and fixing and are backed up as good as new with often brand new batteries and cases. But it’s important to know of it when buying second hand to:
- In the case of a salable commodity, make sure that you have paid the proper price.
- Avoid using fake or unauthorised refurbishing
- Check the performing condition of your battery as per the expectation.
Conclusion
Once you have learned how to read the model number, it is easy to determine if an iPhone is new, refurbished, or replaced. The preliminary condition of the device is instantly identified by the letter found in part number (M, F, N, P). In addition to this, checking battery health, warranty status and model identifier gives you a clear picture of the history of your iPhone.
Whether your iPhone is new or refurbished, what matters most is that it works well and fulfills your needs. If the source is known then it helps in taking better choices particularly while buying or selling.