Buying a new iPhone 12 is exciting, but what if itโs not brand new? If youโre worried that your iPhone 12 might be refurbished, donโt fret! Thereโs a simple way to check. After reading the following paragraphs, you will know how to tell if your iPhone 12 is refurbished or not.
How to Know if iPhone 12 is Refurbished
When youโre buying an iPhone 12, you want to make sure youโre getting a brand new device, unless youโre intentionally buying a refurbished model. The following steps will guide you through the process of checking if your iPhone 12 is refurbished.
Step 1: Go to the Settings app on your iPhone 12.
Open the Settings app on your iPhone 12 to start your investigation.
The Settings app is where you can find all the information about your iPhone, from the software version to the serial number. Itโs the gateway to understanding more about your device.
Step 2: Tap on โGeneralโ.
Select the โGeneralโ option to delve deeper into your iPhoneโs details.
The โGeneralโ section of your iPhoneโs settings is like a treasure trove of information. Itโs where you can find out everything you need to know about your iPhoneโs inner workings.
Step 3: Tap on โAboutโ.
The โAboutโ section is where the specific details of your iPhone are located.
This section contains all the nitty-gritty details about your iPhone, such as the model number and the serial number. Itโs a good place to start when youโre trying to figure out if your iPhone 12 is refurbished.
Step 4: Check the model number.
Find the model number in the โAboutโ section and see if it starts with an โFโ.
The model number is a unique identifier for your iPhone. If it starts with an โFโ, it means that your iPhone 12 is a refurbished model. If it starts with an โMโ, itโs a brand new device straight from the factory.
After completing these steps, you will know for sure if your iPhone 12 is refurbished. You can then decide if youโre okay with a refurbished model or if you want to return it for a brand new one.
Tips for Identifying a Refurbished iPhone 12
- Always check the model number in the โAboutโ section of your iPhoneโs settings.
- Be aware that a refurbished iPhone 12 should come with a warranty, just like a new one.
- Look for any signs of wear and tear, as refurbished iPhones may have been used before.
- Check the battery health, as refurbished iPhones may not have a brand new battery.
- Ask the seller for the iPhoneโs history if youโre buying it second-hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a refurbished iPhone 12 mean?
A refurbished iPhone 12 is a pre-owned device that has been returned to the factory, repaired if necessary, and resold.
Will a refurbished iPhone 12 have a warranty?
Yes, a refurbished iPhone 12 should come with a warranty, just like a new one.
Can I return a refurbished iPhone 12 if Iโm not happy with it?
Yes, you should be able to return a refurbished iPhone 12 if itโs not up to your standards, depending on the sellerโs return policy.
Is there a way to tell if an iPhone 12 is refurbished without checking the model number?
You can look for signs of wear and tear or check the battery health, but checking the model number is the most reliable method.
Should I buy a refurbished iPhone 12?
That depends on your preferences and budget. Refurbished iPhones can be a great deal, but make sure youโre aware of the potential downsides.
Summary
- Go to the Settings app on your iPhone 12.
- Tap on โGeneralโ.
- Tap on โAboutโ.
- Check the model number.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a simple and effective way to check if your iPhone 12 is refurbished. Remember, buying a refurbished iPhone isnโt necessarily a bad thing. They are often just as reliable as new ones and come with a warranty. Plus, they can be a more budget-friendly option. However, itโs always good to know exactly what youโre getting, and now you have the tools to find out. Whether youโre in the market for a new iPhone 12 or just curious about the one you have, understanding the ins and outs of refurbished devices is always a good idea. Happy iPhone hunting!

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 Bachelorโs and Masterโs 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.