Determining which iPhone model you have can be important for a variety of reasons. Knowing your iPhone model can help you figure out if your phone is compatible with the latest iOS updates, whether it will work with certain accessories or cases, and what features and specs it has. Here are some easy ways to identify your iPhone model.
Method 1: Check the iPhone’s Settings
One of the simplest ways to find your iPhone model is by checking the Settings app.
On iPhone models with Face ID (iPhone X and newer):
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap “General”.
- Tap “About”.
- Look under “Model Name” to see the specific iPhone model.
For example, it may say “iPhone 12 Pro Max” or another model like iPhone XR or iPhone 11.
On iPhones with Home button (iPhone 8 and earlier):
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap “General”.
- Tap “About”.
- Look under “Model” to see the specific iPhone model name.
For older iPhones like the iPhone 5s or iPhone 6, the model name will be listed here.
Checking the Settings app is the simplest way to find your iPhone model on any iPhone running iOS. As long you can navigate to the General > About screen, you can see the model name.
Method 2: Check the iPhone’s Back Cover or SIM Card Tray
Another easy way to identify your iPhone model is to check the text printed directly on the device itself.
Turn your iPhone over and look at the fine print on the back cover near the bottom. On most models, you’ll see the iPhone model name like “iPhone 7” or “iPhone 12 mini.” This can help differentiate between models like the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus which look very similar from the front.
If the print is too small to read, you may need to remove the SIM card tray to find the model name. The tray is located on the right side of the iPhone above the power button. Insert a paperclip into the tiny hole to pop out the tray, then slide it out. With the SIM card tray removed, you should see the iPhone model printed on the inside of the tray.
Checking the exterior text can allow you to identify the iPhone model even if you can’t turn the device on to check the Settings. This can be useful if the phone is having issues booting up.
Method 3: Check the iPhone’s Capacity
While the Settings and exterior text reveal the core iPhone model, they don’t indicate the storage capacity. Knowing the capacity is important for determining if you need additional iCloud storage or whether the phone has enough space for apps, photos and videos.
To check the iPhone’s storage capacity:
- Go to Settings > General > About.
- Look for the number listed after “Capacity”.
This shows the total built-in storage of your iPhone. For example, it may show “64GB” or “256GB”.
On older iPhones like the iPhone 5s, the capacity is listed under “Capacity” instead of “Storage”.
Knowing the capacity along with the model name gives you the full picture of which iPhone version you have.
Method 4: Identify by Color and Size
In some cases, the iPhone model may be identified based on color and size alone. For example, the rose gold iPhone was only available on the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus models. So if you have a rose gold iPhone, you know you must have one of those models.
Here are some clues the color and size can provide:
- Jet Black – Only on the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus
- Rose Gold – Only on the iPhone 6s, 6s Plus and SE
- Size – The Plus and Max models are visibly larger than regular models
While color and size aren’t foolproof ways to identify the iPhone, they can provide helpful clues – especially when combined with the other methods on this list.
Method 5: Use the iPhone IMEI Number
Every iPhone has a unique 15-digit IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number that can be used to precisely identify the model.
To find the IMEI number:
- Dial *#06# on the iPhone’s phone dialer.
- The full IMEI number will appear on the screen.
- Type the IMEI number into an IMEI lookup tool.
- The lookup tool will check the number against a database and reveal the exact iPhone model.
The IMEI lookup method works even if the iPhone is in very poor condition and you can’t boot into the Settings. As long as you can access the dialer to retrieve the IMEI, you can find the model.
Method 6: Check the Model Number Instead of Name
Rather than searching for the marketed model name like “iPhone 11”, you can look for the technical model number. This offers a more precise identifier that Apple uses to differentiate between specific models and carriers.
To find the model number:
- Go to Settings > General > About.
- Look for “Model Number.”
- Note down the model number, which is a letter followed by a series of numbers.
Here are some examples of what iPhone model numbers look like:
- A1549 – iPhone 6
- A1688 – iPhone 7 Plus
- A2111 – iPhone XR
Then check the number against Apple’s listing of iPhone models to decipher which specific device you have. The model numbers are more precise than the marketing names.
Method 7: Ask Siri “What iPhone Do I Have?”
If you have an iPhone running iOS 10 or later, you can ask Siri “What iPhone do I have?” and Siri will speak the iPhone model name out loud.
This makes identifying the model hands-free and straightforward if you’re comfortable with using Siri. Just make sure Siri is enabled in Settings and the phone is connected to the internet.
While Siri provides a simple solution, keep in mind that reception issues or Siri connectivity problems could prevent it from working properly.
Method 8: Get Help from Your Carrier
If you’re still unable to determine the iPhone model on your own, contact your cell phone carrier for assistance.
Most carriers track the models of devices active on their network. Give them a call or visit a store, provide your account information, and request details on the iPhone model linked to your line.
The carrier should be able to look up the device information and provide the exact iPhone model. This is useful if all else fails and you need an authoritative answer.
A Full List of All iPhone Models
Here is a complete list of all iPhone models released by Apple since the original iPhone in 2007:
Original iPhones
- iPhone (1st generation)
- iPhone 3G
- iPhone 3GS
iPhone 4 Line
- iPhone 4
- iPhone 4S
iPhone 5 Line
- iPhone 5
- iPhone 5C
- iPhone 5S
iPhone 6 Line
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
- iPhone 6S
- iPhone 6S Plus
iPhone SE Line
- iPhone SE (1st generation)
iPhone 7 Line
- iPhone 7
- iPhone 7 Plus
iPhone 8 Line
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 8 Plus
iPhone X Line
- iPhone X
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
iPhone 11 Line
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
iPhone SE Line
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
iPhone 12 Line
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
iPhone 13 Line
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
iPhone 14 Line
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 15 Line
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
This covers all iPhone models from the first generation in 2007 to the current iPhone 15 lineup released in 2023.
How to Tell What Model iPhone I Have?
Here are a few easy ways to identify which iPhone model you have:
- Check the Settings app – Go to Settings > General > About and look at the “Model Name” to see details like “iPhone 12 Pro” or “iPhone SE 2nd generation”.
- Examine the back of the iPhone – There should be text printed on the back cover or SIM tray that states the iPhone model.
- Note the color and size – Certain colors like jet black or rose gold were only available on specific models. Also, Plus/Max models are larger than regular iPhones.
- Find the iPhone’s IMEI number – Dial *#06# to get the IMEI number, then look it up online to identify the model.
- Look for the Model Number – In Settings > General > About, you’ll see the model number which is more precise than the marketing name.
- Ask Siri – Say “Hey Siri, what iPhone do I have?” and Siri will speak the model name.
- Contact your carrier – They can look up your account and see the iPhone model attached to your line.
Knowing your iPhone model lets you check compatibility, upgrade eligibility, cases that fit, and other important details. Hopefully one of these methods helps you identify which iPhone version you have!
How to Find Out Your iPhone Model Number (5 Easy Methods)
Here are 5 easy methods to find your iPhone model number:
- Check Settings: The quickest way is to go to Settings > General > About and look for “Model Number”. You’ll see a letter followed by a series of numbers that identifies the specific iPhone model.
- Examine the Back or SIM Card Tray: Turn over your iPhone and look for small text on the back cover or inside the SIM card tray. This text will state the iPhone model number.
- Use an IMEI Lookup Tool: Dial *#06# to reveal the IMEI number. Then enter the IMEI number into an online lookup tool to find details on the model.
- Ask Apple Support: Contact Apple Support by chat or phone and provide the phone’s serial number. Their team can use the serial number to look up the device’s model details.
- Check Order History: If you ordered directly from Apple, you can look up the iPhone model number in your Apple Order History using the order number or Apple ID used for the purchase.
Knowing the specific iPhone model number helps you identify compatible cases and accessories, troubleshoot issues, and determine if a used iPhone has the features you want. Use one of these 5 methods to find your iPhone’s model number.
What to do if you can’t turn on or unlock your iPhone?
Here are some tips if you can’t turn on or unlock your iPhone:
- Charge it – The battery may be drained. Plug it into power and try again after 20-30 minutes.
- Force restart – Press and quickly release the Volume Up button, press and quickly release the Volume Down button, then press and hold the Side button until you see the Apple logo. This may fix a software glitch.
- Reset it – Press and hold the Volume Up, Volume Down, then hold the Side button until you see the recovery mode screen. Then restore in iTunes.
- Remove the SIM card – Eject the SIM tray and remove the SIM card, then try to turn on the iPhone. This may deactivate any SIM lock.
- Disable Find My iPhone – If it’s activation locked, you’ll need the Apple ID and password used to activate it. Sign into icloud.com to remove the device from Find My iPhone.
- Contact Apple Support – They can run diagnostics, override activation lock if you verify ownership, or arrange for service if there is a hardware issue.
- Take it to Apple Store – The Genius Bar can troubleshoot in-person and restore or replace the iPhone if needed. Make an appointment online first.
- Contact your carrier – If it’s a cellular model, your carrier may be able to unlock it remotely if you provide the required account credentials.
With some persistence and the right help, an unresponsive iPhone can usually be revived. Start with basic troubleshooting, then escalate to Apple Support or professional assistance if needed.
How to Identify Every iPhone?
Here are easy steps to identify any iPhone model:
- Step 1: Check Settings: Go to Settings > General > About. Look for “Model Name” (newer iPhones) or “Model” (older iPhones). This will state the exact iPhone model.
- Step 2: Examine the Exterior: Turn over the iPhone and read the small text printed on the back cover or SIM card tray. This text reveals the iPhone model name or number.
- Step 3: Use the IMEI Number: Dial *#06# to get the IMEI number. Type this into an IMEI lookup tool online and it will identify the iPhone model.
- Step 4: Inspect the Design: Note identifying design details like size, colors, camera placement, and home button vs notch. This can help narrow down the model.
- Step 5: Check the Model Number: In Settings > General > About, look for “Model Number.” Cross-reference the letter and number combo to identify the specific model.
- Step 6: Ask Apple: Contact Apple Support by chat, phone, or in store and provide the serial number. They can use this to look up the exact iPhone model.
- Step 7: Check Your Purchase History: If you bought the iPhone directly from Apple, check prior Apple Orders using your Apple ID and it will state the model.
With these simple steps, you can identify any iPhone model – old or new. Knowing the specific model lets you find cases, check compatibility, recognize features, and more.
How to Check iPhone Model Number?
Here are a few easy methods to check the iPhone model number:
- Settings – Go to Settings > General > About and look for “Model Number”. You’ll see a letter and series of numbers.
- Back of iPhone – Turn over the device and read the small text on the back cover or SIM tray. This states the model number.
- IMEI Number – Dial *#06# to reveal the IMEI number. Look up the IMEI online and it will show the model number.
- Support Profile – Contact Apple Support and provide the serial number. They can check the support profile to find the model number.
- Purchase History – If you bought directly from Apple, check your order history using your Apple ID to see the model number.
- Model Identifier Tools – Websites like EveryMac.com have free model identifier tools where you enter the model number to see details.
- Physical Size – Size can indicate certain models like Plus, Max, mini, etc when combined with other methods.
Knowing the precise iPhone model number enables you to check compatibility, identify specs and features, troubleshoot issues, find cases and accessories that fit, and more. Use one of these simple methods to find the model number of any iPhone.
How to Tell What iPhone i Have Without Turning it On?
Here are some ways to identify your iPhone model without turning on the device:
- Examine the exterior – Look for printed text on the back of the iPhone or inside the SIM card tray that indicates the model name or number.
- Check the size and design – The size, camera placement, notch vs home button, colors, etc. can indicate certain iPhone models.
- Use the IMEI number – Dial *#06# to get the IMEI number, then use an online lookup tool to identify the model based on the IMEI.
- Ask your carrier – Contact your cell provider and give them the device IMEI number. They can use this to check their records and identify the iPhone model.
- Get help from Apple – Make a Genius Bar appointment and they can determine the iPhone model by looking up the serial number even if the phone is off.
- Check purchase history – If you bought directly from Apple, you can sign in and look up the order to see the iPhone model purchased.
- Try charging it – Attempt charging for several minutes, then quickly turn on the iPhone before it dies to check Settings for the model.
With a combination of these methods, you should be able to determine the iPhone model without needing to actually power on the device. This can be useful if the phone won’t turn on or activate.
How to Tell What iPhone i Have by Serial Number?
Here are some ways to identify your iPhone model using the serial number:
- Apple Support – Contact Apple Support by chat or phone and provide the serial number. Their team can look it up in their system to verify the model.
- Apple Warranty Check – Go to https://checkcoverage.apple.com and enter the serial number. It will show the iPhone model associated with that serial number.
- IMEI and Serial Number Lookup – Websites like imeipro.info allow you to search the IMEI or serial number and will identify the iPhone model.
- Local Carrier – Take the iPhone to a local carrier store (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile etc). Give them the serial number and they can identify the model.
- Warranty Documents – Check the warranty card or documents that came with the iPhone when purchased new. It should have the serial number matched to that specific model.
- Receipt – The original purchase receipt for the iPhone should have the serial number printed on it, identified along with the model.
- Engraving – If the iPhone is engraved, the engraving might include the serial number which you can then reference.
With the unique iPhone serial number, you can use one of these methods to accurately identify the specific iPhone model. This works for any iPhone, old or new.
How to Check iPhone Serial Number?
Here are the easy steps to find your iPhone’s serial number:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap “General”.
- Tap “About”.
- Look for the entry labeled either “Serial Number” or “Serial”. This is a unique alphanumeric string of letters and numbers.
- Write down or copy the entire serial number. You may want to take a screenshot of the About screen that shows the serial number.
- You can then enter or reference this serial number to identify your exact iPhone model and details.
- On the About screen, you can also find other identifiers like the Model Name/Number, IMEI, MEID, and ICCID which may provide additional information about your device.
- If you ever need service or support for your iPhone, having the serial number handy allows Apple and technicians to instantly look up specifics on your device.
Locating and noting down the iPhone serial is quick and easy following these steps. It provides a unique identifier that lets you or Apple verify the device model, warranty status, and other details.
How to Know Your iPhone Name and Model Number?
Here are a few easy ways to find the name and model number of your iPhone:
- Check Settings: Go to Settings > General > About. Look for “Model Name” to see the marketing name, like “iPhone 12 Pro Max”. Also look for “Model Number” to see a more specific identifier like A2172.
- Examine the Exterior: Turn over your iPhone and read the small text printed on the back cover or inside the SIM card tray. This will state the iPhone name and model number.
- Use Apple Support: Contact Apple Support by phone or chat and provide them the serial number on your iPhone. They can look this up and tell you the name and model number.
- Check Purchase History: If you bought directly from Apple, you can sign in to your Apple account and check previous orders. It will show the iPhone name and model number you purchased.
- Try a Model ID Tool: Websites like EveryMac have a free model identifier tool. Enter your model number and it will instantly reveal the iPhone name and other details.
- Ask Siri: Say “Hey Siri, what iPhone is this?” and Siri will audibly tell you the iPhone model name.
Knowing the exact marketing name and technical model number allows you to identify specs, troubleshoot issues, and find compatible accessories. Use one of these simple methods to find out which iPhone model you have.
How do I Know if My iPhone is New or Refurbished?
Here are some ways to tell if your iPhone is new or refurbished:
- Check the serial number – Enter it on Apple’s warranty checker at https://checkcoverage.apple.com. It will say if it’s refurbished.
- Examine the IMEI number – The 6th digit will be a 0 for new or 1-9 for refurbished. You can dial *#06# to get the IMEI.
- Look for a Refurbished label – There may be text on a sticker on the back saying “Refurbished” or “Recertified.”
- Inspect the packaging – Should be pristine for new, may have scuffs or replacement tape if refurbished.
- Note the condition – Signs of use like scratches may indicate refurbished, but not always.
- Check the warranty – Apple provides 1 year for new, 90 days for refurbished iPhones.
- Ask Apple – Contact Apple Support with the serial number and they can check if it’s refurbished.
- Review your purchase – If bought used or third party, it’s more likely refurbished unless specified as brand new.
The best way is to get the serial number and use Apple’s tools to check. This will definitively tell you if an iPhone is new or refurbished.
Conclusion
Figuring out your iPhone model is pretty straightforward when you know where to check – from the Settings app, to the exterior text and labels, to the IMEI number and model number.
With the iPhone model identified, you can then look up the full tech specs and features online to learn exactly what your device offers. This allows you to find cases that fit, troubleshoot issues, and determine if you need a repair, upgrade or are eligible for the latest iOS update.
Finding out which iPhone model you have can be important for a variety of reasons. Knowing your iPhone model allows you to:
- Check compatibility with apps, accessories and cases
- Determine if your phone can run the latest iOS version
- Identify the features, specs and capabilities of your phone
- Troubleshoot any issues or get help from Apple Support
- Sell or buy the phone by clearly stating the model
- Assess if you need to upgrade your device
How to identify your iPhone model through Settings, exterior labels, IMEI and serial number lookups, physical size and design, asking Siri, and checking purchase history.
Taking a few quick minutes to find out the iPhone model using these methods can save you time and give you valuable information about your device. Knowing precisely which iPhone you have lets you get the most out of using, troubleshooting and upgrading when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some of the most commonly asked FAQs about how to tell what iPhone model you have:
How can I find out which iPhone model I have?
The easiest way is to go to Settings > General > About and look at the “Model Name” or “Model Number”. This will display the specific iPhone model. You can also examine the exterior text on the back of the phone or SIM card tray to see the model printed there.
Where do I find the iPhone model number?
The model number can be found in Settings > General > About under “Model Number”. It will be a combination of letters and numbers that identifies the specific iPhone model.
How do I find my iPhone’s IMEI number?
To reveal your iPhone’s IMEI number, dial *#06# on the phone keypad. The 15-digit IMEI number will appear on the screen. You can then lookup the IMEI number online to identify the iPhone model.
Can I ask Siri what iPhone model I have?
Yes, if you have an iPhone with Siri enabled, you can ask “Hey Siri, what iPhone is this?” and Siri will audibly tell you the iPhone model name.
I bought my iPhone used – how can I find out the model?
If you don’t have the original documentation, go to Settings or examine the exterior text to find the model details. You can also use the IMEI number or take it to an Apple Store for model identification.
How do I see the storage capacity of my iPhone?
The storage capacity is listed in Settings > General > About under “Capacity”. This will show how much built-in storage your iPhone has (64GB, 128GB, etc).
Where can I find my iPhone’s serial number?
The serial number can be found in Settings > General > About. You’ll see an entry for “Serial Number” or “Serial”. Copy this number down as it can help identify the device.