Is your iPhone Refurbished or Used?

As many people sell and buy used iPhones as used phones marketplace is getting popular. So it is very important to know if the phone is in new condition or is it a refurbished phone. In this article let’s see how to check if an iPhone is not repaired or a refurbished unit by check iPhone Model number.

Where to buy Used or Refurbished iPhones

You can find used iPhones from many sources. Facebook marketplace is a good choice if you would like to meet in person and buy the phone. There are numerous options to buy online and some of the popular ones are Swappa, eBay, Amazon, Walmart and even Best Buy sells open box , used and refurbished phones for a discounted price.

One of the easiest way to check iPhones condition is by checking the model number. In your iPhone, go to settings, General and About Phone to check the model number.

• If Model number starts with M, then it’s a New phone sold by apple
• If Model number starts with F then its a refurbished phone sold by apple
• If Model number starts with N, then it’s a replacement phone sold by apple
• If Model number starts with P then is a Personalized phone

By this way, you can find how the phone was originally sold and decide on your purchase. My suggestion is to go for M and N model iPhones as both are new phones from Apple. Personally I would avoid F series and P Series when buying a used iPhone.

How to check Apple Warranty on iPhone

Apart from this information, you can also check if there is any apple care or original warranty left on the phone. To get these information from apple, you either need the phone’s serial number or IMEI from the Phone’s settings option. Once you have the information, you can get the details from this link – https://checkcoverage.apple.com/

Knowing these facts help you better negotiate the price on used iphones depending on its condition. For example, a phone with serial number starting M ensures it doesn’t had any major repairs done in the past. And in case if it’s a phone with serial number as “N” denotes it has been a replacement phone from apple which is more like a new iPhone.

To determine if an iPhone is not repaired or refurbished, you can follow these steps:

1. Check the Physical Condition: Examine the physical condition of the iPhone. Look for any signs of repairs, such as noticeable scratches, dents, or uneven edges. A pristine exterior without any visible signs of repair is a good indication that the device has not undergone extensive refurbishment.
2. Verify the Serial Number: Obtain the serial number of the iPhone by going to “Settings” > “General” > “About” or by checking the back of the device. Once you have the serial number, you can use Apple’s official website or other third-party websites to verify its authenticity. Enter the serial number into the designated field and check the results. If the device is not refurbished, it should match the original information associated with the iPhone model.
3. Check for Apple Care Coverage: If the iPhone is still under Apple Care coverage, it typically indicates that the device has not undergone significant repairs or refurbishment. You can visit Apple’s website or contact Apple Support with the serial number to check if the device is covered by Apple Care.
4. Verify Warranty Status: Apple provides a limited warranty for its devices. You can check the warranty status of an iPhone on Apple’s website using the serial number. If the warranty is still active and matches the device model, it suggests that the iPhone is likely not refurbished or repaired extensively.
5. Purchase from Authorized Sources: To minimize the risk of buying a refurbished or repaired iPhone, it’s recommended to purchase from authorized sources such as Apple Stores, authorized retailers, or reputable online sellers. Authorized sources typically provide genuine, non-refurbished devices.
6. Inspect the Accessories and Packaging: Original Apple accessories, such as the charging cable, power adapter, and earphones, are usually included with new iPhones. Check if the accessories are consistent with the model and are in new condition. Additionally, examine the packaging for any signs of tampering or resealing, as refurbished devices may be packaged differently.
7. Seek Professional Opinion: If you’re still uncertain about the authenticity of an iPhone, you can seek the opinion of an authorized Apple service provider or an experienced technician. They can examine the device for any signs of repairs or refurbishment and provide their expert assessment.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of determining whether an iPhone is not repaired or refurbished. Remember that it’s important to exercise caution when purchasing second-hand devices and to ensure that you are dealing with reputable sellers. Let me know if you would like to know anything about iPhones in the comments and I can provide my thoughts.