Checking if an iPhone is original is a simple process and can save you from buying a counterfeit product. All you need is the device’s serial number, which can be found in the phone settings. After locating the serial number, you will use Apple’s official website to verify the product’s authenticity.
After completing the verification process, you will either have the reassurance that your iPhone is genuine or the knowledge that it’s not, allowing you to take appropriate actions.
Introduction
Ever wondered if that deal on an iPhone was too good to be true? In the bustling market of smartphones, counterfeits and knock-offs are all too common, and it can be challenging to discern if an iPhone is original or not. This topic is especially relevant to both buyers and sellers in the second-hand market, where the history of a device may not be easily traceable.
Knowing if an iPhone is original is crucial because it ensures you’re getting what you paid for—a genuine Apple device with all the features, quality, and security that come with it. It also helps in maintaining the device’s value and functionality. Whether you’re planning to buy a used iPhone or just want to check the authenticity of your current device, understanding how to verify its originality is vital.
Step by Step Tutorial to Check if an iPhone Is Original
The following steps will guide you through the process of verifying the authenticity of an iPhone.
Step 1: Locate the Serial Number
Find the serial number of the iPhone in Settings.
Every iPhone has a unique serial number that can be used to verify its authenticity. To find this number, go to Settings > General > About, and scroll down to “Serial Number”. This step is essential as the serial number is your key to checking the device’s legitimacy.
Step 2: Verify the Serial Number on Apple’s Website
Use Apple’s official website to check the serial number.
Once you have the serial number, go to Apple’s official website (checkcoverage.apple.com), enter the number in the provided field, and hit “Continue”. If the iPhone is original, the website will display its warranty status and other details. This step confirms the device’s authenticity directly from the source.
Step 3: Check the Physical Features
Inspect the iPhone’s physical design and details.
An original iPhone will have a high-quality build and finish. Check for things like the Apple logo, which should be smooth and not just a sticker, and the screen, which should be clear and not pixelated. The materials should feel premium, and the buttons should sit flush with the body of the phone.
Step 4: Inspect the Software
Explore the phone’s software and functionality.
An original iPhone will have a fully functioning iOS operating system and will be able to access the App Store and other Apple services. Counterfeit iPhones may run on a modified version of Android designed to look like iOS, which is a clear sign the device is not genuine.
Step 5: Confirm the IMEI Number
Match the IMEI number on the iPhone’s housing, SIM tray, or in the settings to verify it’s the same.
The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number is another unique identifier for the phone. It can be found by dialing *#06# on the keypad, and it should match the number in the settings and on the physical phone itself, either on the back or on the SIM tray.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Ensures Authenticity | Verifying the originality of an iPhone confirms that you’re getting a genuine Apple product with all the expected features, quality, and security. |
| Peace of Mind | Knowing you have an original iPhone provides peace of mind, especially if you’re buying second-hand, and ensures the device’s value. |
| Access to Support | Original iPhones are eligible for support and service from Apple, ensuring any issues can be addressed by professionals. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Time-Consuming | The verification process can be time-consuming, especially if you need to check multiple devices before making a purchase. |
| Requires Knowledge | Users need to know where to find the serial number and IMEI and how to interpret the results from Apple’s website. |
| Not Foolproof | While rare, there’s a small chance that counterfeiters have duplicated serial numbers from genuine devices, which can lead to false positives. |
Additional Information
When checking if an iPhone is original, there are a few extra tips to keep in mind. Firstly, be wary of the packaging and accessories. Genuine iPhones come with high-quality packaging and accessories, such as the charger and earphones. If these items seem cheap or don’t match Apple’s usual standard, it’s a red flag. Secondly, the price is often an indicator. If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
It’s rare to find a significantly discounted iPhone unless it’s quite old or damaged. Lastly, always buy from reputable sources when possible. This not only helps in ensuring you’re getting an original iPhone but also gives you a better chance at recourse if something is amiss.
Summary
- Locate the Serial Number
- Verify the Serial Number on Apple’s Website
- Check the Physical Features
- Inspect the Software
- Confirm the IMEI Number
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if my iPhone is not original?
If you discover that your iPhone is not original, it’s best to contact the seller if you’ve recently bought it and ask for a refund. If that’s not possible, be wary of using the device for personal or sensitive activities, as it may not be secure.
Can a counterfeit iPhone run iOS?
Counterfeit iPhones cannot run the genuine iOS operating system. They often use a modified version of Android designed to mimic iOS’s appearance, which can be spotted by its subpar performance and lack of access to Apple services.
Where can I find the IMEI number on an iPhone?
The IMEI number can be found by dialing *#06# on the phone, in the iPhone’s settings under General > About, on the SIM tray, or, in some models, on the back of the device.
How can I be sure I’m buying an original iPhone?
To ensure you’re buying an original iPhone, purchase from reputable sellers, check for the serial number, and use Apple’s website to verify the device’s authenticity before buying.
Is it safe to buy a used iPhone?
Buying a used iPhone can be safe as long as you take the time to verify its originality and ensure it’s in good working condition. Always ask for the serial number and check it on Apple’s website.
Conclusion
In a world where fakes and counterfeits are popping up left and right, knowing how to check if an iPhone is original is a skill that can save you money and headaches. By following the steps laid out in this article, you can confidently assess the authenticity of an iPhone and make informed decisions when buying or selling such a device.
Always remember that the little details, like the quality of the packaging or the price point, can also provide clues about the device’s legitimacy. As technology advances, so do counterfeiters’ tactics, but being equipped with knowledge and due diligence will always give you the upper hand.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.