How to Tell What iPhone Model I Have: The Expert Guide

You’re staring at a slab of glass and aluminum, and honestly, they all start to look the same after a while. Whether you're trying to sell it, buy a case that actually fits, or you’re just curious if your phone is even compatible with the latest iOS 19 or the rumored features of iOS 20, knowing exactly what’s in your hand matters.

Apple doesn't make it easy by printing the name on the back anymore. Gone are the days of the "iPhone 6s" logo. Now, it’s just a clean, minimalist surface. So, how to tell what iPhone model I have without guessing?

The Settings Method: The Only Way to Be 100% Sure

If your phone turns on, this is the gold standard. Seriously, don't bother looking at the camera lenses yet.

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Open Settings. Tap General. Then tap About.

Right there, near the top, you’ll see "Model Name." It might say "iPhone 15 Pro" or maybe "iPhone 13 mini." This is the definitive answer pulled directly from the device’s firmware.

Decoding the Cryptic Model Number

Just below the model name, you’ll see "Model Number." It looks like a long string of gibberish, maybe something like MT533LL/A. That’s actually the "Part Number," which tells pros the region and storage capacity.

Pro Tip: Tap that part number once. It will transform into a shorter code starting with the letter "A," like A3105. That is your actual Model Number. If you ever have to chat with Apple Support or look up specific 5G band compatibility, that "A" number is what they’re going to ask for.

What if the Screen is Broken or Won't Turn On?

This is where it gets a bit "Sherlock Holmes." If you can't get into the software, you have to look for physical clues.

For anything newer than an iPhone 8, Apple hid the model number inside the SIM tray slot. Pop that tray out with a paperclip or a SIM tool. You’ll need a bright light and maybe a magnifying glass (or a photo from another phone zoomed in). Look at the top edge of the slot—the side closest to the screen. You’ll see that "A" number etched right into the metal.

If you have a US-model iPhone 14, 15, 16, or the new 17 series, you might not even have a SIM tray because of eSIM. In that case, look inside the USB-C or Lightning connector port. It’s tiny, but the model number is etched on the upper side of the connector (the side toward the display).

Older Phones (The Easy Era)

If you’re rocking an iPhone 7 or older, just flip the phone over. Apple used to etch the model number right on the back casing in tiny text. It’s right under the word "iPhone." If it says A1660, you've got an iPhone 7. Simple.

Identifying by Design: The Visual Cheat Sheet

Sometimes you just want to know at a glance. The camera layout is usually the biggest giveaway.

• Three Lenses + LiDAR: You’re holding a "Pro" model (iPhone 11 Pro through iPhone 17 Pro).
• The "Plateau" Design: On the newest iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, the camera array sits on a raised strip that stretches across the back, rather than just a square in the corner.
• Vertical Dual Lenses: This is usually a base model iPhone 12, 11, or the latest iPhone 16/17 series.
• Diagonal Dual Lenses: This was the signature look for the iPhone 13, 14, and 15.
• The Home Button: If it has a physical circle button at the bottom, it’s either an old legacy phone or an iPhone SE. The 3rd Gen SE (2022) looks identical to the 2nd Gen (2020), so you’ll definitely need the Settings menu to tell those apart.

Check Your Apple Account (The Remote Method)

Maybe you don't even have the phone with you. Maybe it's lost, or you're checking for a family member.

Grab another Apple device (iPad, Mac, or another iPhone) and go to Settings > [Your Name]. Scroll down to the bottom. You’ll see a list of every device signed into your iCloud account.

Alternatively, go to account.apple.com on any web browser. Once you sign in, the "Devices" section will show you the exact model name of every iPhone you own. This is incredibly helpful for insurance claims or if you're trying to figure out if that old phone in the drawer is worth trading in.

Why the Model Number Actually Matters

It’s not just about vanity. Knowing the specific "A" number tells you about the hardware's history.

For instance, an iPhone might be a Retail unit (Model number starts with M), a Refurbished unit (Starts with F), or a Replacement unit from a Genius Bar repair (Starts with N). You find this by looking at the "Part Number" (the one before you tap it to see the "A" code) in Settings > General > About.

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If you’re buying a used phone, checking this can save you from being scammed. If someone is selling a "brand new" phone but the model number starts with "N," it’s actually a replacement unit, not a retail box.

Summary Checklist for Identification

1. Check Settings > General > About (Best for working phones).
2. Look in the SIM tray slot or charging port (Best for broken screens).
3. Inspect the back casing (For iPhone 7 and older).
4. Log into iCloud.com (Best if the phone is missing or dead).
5. Cross-reference the "A" number on Apple’s official support site.

Now that you know exactly which model you're holding, you can check its trade-in value or find the right screen protector. If you're planning to sell it, make sure to perform a full iCloud backup and "Erase All Content and Settings" before handing it over to the next owner.