What iPhone Model Do I Have? Identifying Your Phone Correctly

Olivia Garcia

space gray iPhone X on blue surface

Knowing which iPhone model you have can be helpful for various reasons such as troubleshooting, selling, or buying accessories. You can identify your iPhone model by using the settings app or checking the physical details. The settings app provides a straightforward way to find out your iPhone model. It gives you specific information including the model number and software version. For those who prefer a physical check, the model number is also found on the iPhone’s casing or box.

Sometimes, you might require more detailed information like the serial number. This information is also accessible through the settings app. Knowing the serial number is beneficial if you need support from Apple or to check warranty status. Each iPhone model has unique characteristics so identifying the model can also inform you about the features and capabilities of your device.

Unmasking Your iPhone: A Guide to Model Identification

Check Settings

The easiest way to find your iPhone model is through the Settings app.

  1. Open the “Settings” app.
  2. Tap “General.”
  3. Select “About.”

Your iPhone model will be listed under “Model Name.” If you only see a model number (e.g., A2631), you can look it up online or in the table below.

Physical Clues

Each iPhone model has unique design characteristics:

  • iPhone 15 Series: Flat edges, Dynamic Island (Pro models), USB-C port
  • iPhone 14 Series: Flat edges, notch (non-Pro models), Lightning port
  • iPhone 13 Series: Flat edges, notch, Lightning port
  • iPhone 12 Series: Flat edges, notch, Lightning port
  • iPhone 11 Series: Rounded edges, notch, Lightning port
  • iPhone X, XS, XR: Notch, no home button
  • iPhone 8, 8 Plus: Home button, glass back
  • iPhone 7, 7 Plus: Home button, single or dual camera
  • iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd gen): Home button, similar design to iPhone 8
  • Older models: Varying designs

Model Number

You can also find your iPhone’s model number:

  • In Settings: Go to “Settings” > “General” > “About.”
  • On the back of the phone: Look for the fine print at the bottom.
  • In the SIM tray: (For models with SIM trays)

Use the model number to identify your iPhone using online resources or the table below.

Model Number Table

Model NameModel Number(s)
iPhone 15 Pro MaxA2849, A3105, A3108, A3106
iPhone 15 ProA2848, A3101, A3104, A3102
iPhone 15 PlusA2850, A3107, A3110, A3109
iPhone 15A2851, A3103, A3112, A3111
iPhone 14 Pro MaxA2896, A2893, A2894, A2895
iPhone 14 ProA2892, A2889, A2890, A2891
iPhone 14 PlusA2888, A2885, A2886, A2887
iPhone 14A2884, A2881, A2882, A2883
iPhone 13 Pro MaxA2643, A2640, A2641, A2644, A2645
iPhone 13 ProA2636, A2639, A2638, A2637
iPhone 13A2633, A2630, A2632, A2634, A2635
iPhone 13 miniA2626, A2629, A2628, A2627

(The table continues for all iPhone models. Please refer to Apple’s website for a complete list.)

Key Takeaways

  • Users can identify their iPhone model via the settings app or on the physical device.
  • The settings app provides model and software version information.
  • Serial numbers are useful for support and warranty checks.

Identifying Your iPhone Model

Determining the exact iPhone model can be important for a variety of reasons, from technical support to purchasing accessories. This section outlines two reliable methods to identify your iPhone model: using the device’s settings and examining its physical features.

Using Settings and Info

You can find the model information in the settings of your iPhone. First, open the Settings app. Tap General, then About. Here, you’ll see an entry called Model Name, providing the general series of your iPhone, like iPhone XR or iPhone 11 Pro Max. To get the model number, which is more specific, tap on the entry labeled Model Number to reveal the ‘A’ model number. This model number is essential when you need precise details.

iPhone model details are also available on this screen, including the capacity and serial number. If your iPhone is running iOS 12.2 or newer, you get extra info like the IMEI number or part number.

Physical Characteristics

If you can’t power on your iPhone or want to verify the model without turning it on, inspect the physical features of your device. Check for the model number on the back of your iPhone. However, please note that newer models might not have this detail. Other distinguishing features include:

  • Screen size: Measure the screen diagonally to help identify your model.
  • Camera system: The presence of a telelens or LiDAR scanner can indicate which series it is.
  • Body: Look at the back cover and frame for material type, such as glass or aluminum, and the color, as this can help distinguish models. For instance, certain colors like deep purple are unique to specific iPhone series.
  • Ports: A USB-C connector rather than the traditional Lightning port can be a giveaway on newer models.

Remember, the SIM card tray location and band material (like stainless steel) can also hint at the model. Models ranging from iPhone 7 through to the iPhone 15 vary in details: the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus have different camera setups than the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus. The iPhone X and later models introduced a notch and different finishes like space black and silver.

Refer to the following table for a quick reference to help tell apart various models based on the number of cameras and body colors:

ModelCamerasBody Color
iPhone 11 ProTripleMidnight Green
iPhone 12 Pro MaxTriplePacific Blue
iPhone 13 ProTripleSierra Blue
iPhone 14 ProQuadSpace Black
iPhone 15 Pro MaxTripleDeep Purple

Identifying the model of your iPhone ensures that you find relevant and compatible accessories and receive the right kind of support whenever needed.

Model Numbers and Introduction Years

Identifying an iPhone model and its year of introduction can be done precisely through its model number. This information is essential for determining compatibility with the latest iOS version, understanding the available support, and verifying the device’s features.

Decoding Model Numbers

Each iPhone has a unique model number that usually starts with the letter ‘A’ followed by four numbers. For instance, the iPhone 15 Pro Max has a model number of A2894, while the iPhone 15 Plus might have A2895. These numbers are crucial for identifying the specific device beyond just the model name. Users can find these numbers on the back of the phone or within the settings under “General” and “About”.

Regional Variations

Model numbers also indicate the device’s intended region. Different regions such as the United States, Canada, Japan, or Hong Kong have distinct versions that sometimes offer varied features like support for certain cellular bands. For instance, an iPhone sold in the United States might have a different model number, like A2650, compared to the same model sold in Japan with a number like A2651. Knowing this helps with understanding what services and networks the phone can access. It’s important for travelers or those importing phones to be aware of these regional differences.