Are you curious about the history of your used iPhone? Do you want to know if it was brand new or refurbished when you bought it? There’s a simple way to find out! In this guide, we will walk you through the steps on how to check if your iPhone is refurbished. Getting this info can be helpful in understanding the origins of your device and making informed decisions about its value and potential warranty coverage. So, let’s get started!
Basic Steps To Check If Your iPhone is Refurbished
Step 1: Find Your iPhone’s Model Number
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap on “General.”
- Tap on “About.”
Once you are on the “About” page, you will see important information about your iPhone, such as its name, software version, and most importantly, its model number.
Step 2: Decode the Model Number
Pay close attention to the model number, as it holds the key to determining the origin of your iPhone. Here’s what each prefix of the model number means:
- M: If your model number starts with “M,” it means that the iPhone was purchased new from Apple.
- F: If your model number starts with “F,” it indicates that the iPhone has been refurbished by Apple or a carrier.
- P: If your model number starts with “P,” it means that the iPhone was sold as a personalized device with an engraving.
- N: If your model number starts with “N,” it means that Apple provided the iPhone as a replacement for a malfunctioning device.
Refurbished iPhones and Potential Benefits
If you discover that your iPhone has been refurbished, there is no need to panic. Apple puts its Certified Refurbished products through a rigorous process that brings them to a like-new condition. Each unit is thoroughly cleaned, broken parts are replaced if necessary, and both the battery and outer shell are changed.
In general, Apple Certified Refurbished products look and function just like brand new iPhones, but due to legal reasons, Apple cannot sell them as new. What’s more, Apple often offers these refurbished products at a significant discount, making them a great value.
Carriers and Third-Party Refurbished Devices
It’s important to note that carriers like AT&T and Verizon also refurbish iPhones and sell them at a discounted price. However, unlike Apple, they may not replace the battery or provide a new 1-year warranty on the phone. You can check the warranty status of your iPhone by visiting Apple’s warranty site and entering the device’s serial number.
When it comes to third-party refurbished devices, it’s best to exercise caution. Independent repair operations that are not authorized by Apple may not adhere to the same rigorous standards as Apple does for refurbishment. Therefore, it’s generally advisable to avoid third-party refurbished devices whenever possible.
Final Words
While knowing the Apple-based origins of your iPhone may not significantly impact its functionality (as that depends more on how previous owners treated it), being informed about its refurbishment status provides valuable insight. This quick tip helps you make more educated decisions about your iPhone purchase.
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