Buying a used iPhone can save you hundreds of dollars, but it’s important to know exactly what you’re getting. Is it brand new? Was it a replacement unit? Or was it refurbished to fix a problem?
Fortunately, you don’t have to guess. Every iPhone has a hidden code in its settings that reveals its entire history.
In this guide, you will learn exactly how to use your iPhone’s Model Number to determine if it is New, Refurbished, Personalized, or a Replacement unit.
How To Check If Your iPhone Is Refurbished
This method works on every iPhone and iPad running iOS.
Step 1: Open Settings
Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
Step 2: Navigate to “About”
Tap on General, then tap the first option, About.
Step 3: Check the Model Number
Scroll down to the line that says Model Number. You will see a code like MNC22LL/A. The first letter of this code tells you everything.
Here is what the first letter means:
- M: Brand New. This device was purchased new from Apple or an authorized retailer.
- F: Refurbished. This device has been through a refurbishing process (usually by Apple or a carrier) to fix a problem.
- N: Replacement Device. This was given by Apple as a replacement for a broken iPhone (e.g., if you took a broken phone to the Genius Bar and they swapped it out).
- P: Personalized. This device was bought new from Apple with custom engraving on the back.
What Does “Refurbished” Really Mean?
Just because an iPhone is “Refurbished” (Model F) or a “Replacement” (Model N) doesn’t mean it’s bad. In fact, it’s often a better deal.
Apple Certified Refurbished
If you buy a refurbished iPhone directly from Apple, it is essentially brand new. Apple replaces the battery and the outer shell with brand-new parts. It also comes with the same 1-year warranty as a new iPhone.
Third-Party Refurbished
Warning: The model number trick only works if the refurbishing was done officially by Apple. If you buy a “refurbished” phone from Amazon Renewed, eBay, or a local repair shop, the model number will likely still start with “M” because Apple didn’t change the serial number.
For these third-party phones, “refurbished” just means “used and cleaned.” They usually do not have a new battery or shell unless specified.
Conclusion
Checking your iPhone’s model number is the fastest way to know its true history. If it starts with M, it was bought new. If it starts with F, it’s an official refurbished unit. Both are excellent devices, but knowing the difference ensures you paid the right price.
 iPhone was refurbished, go to Settings > General > About > Model and see if it begins with "M," or){kind=link}
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