With so many fake iPhones in the market nowadays, it is important to be able to distinguish between a genuine iPhone and a refurbished one. This blog post is designed to give you insights and tips on how to check if your iPhone is original or refurbished. If you are purchasing a second-hand iPhone or considering buying a used one, this information will be useful for you as it will help you identify whether the iPhone is a genuine one or not.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Check If Your iPhone Is Original Or Refurbished
The rise of counterfeit iPhones has been a major concern for both buyers and sellers. Counterfeit iPhones look identical to genuine iPhones, but their performance is often poor. They have inferior hardware and software, which can result in a poor user experience. Purchasing a fake iPhone can also be a waste of money, as there is no warranty or technical support available. By checking if your iPhone is original or refurbished, you can avoid these problems and ensure that you are getting value for your money.
Method 1: Check the Serial Number or IMEI Number
The first method to check whether an iPhone is original or refurbished is to check the serial number or IMEI number. Here are the steps:
1. Go to the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Tap on “General”.
3. Tap on “About”.
4. Scroll down and look for either the “Serial Number” or “IMEI” section.
5. Write down the serial number or IMEI number.
6. Go to Apple’s website: https://checkcoverage.apple.com/
7. Enter the serial number or IMEI number.
8. If the website says “Sorry, but this serial number or IMEI is not valid. Please check your information and try again”, it may be a fake iPhone.
Pros:
– Easy to check
– Authenticity can be confirmed from Apple’s website
Cons:
– Serial number or IMEI number can be changed in counterfeit iPhones
– There are many websites that fake IMEI numbers and cannot be trusted for authenticity
Method 2: Check the Physical Characteristics
The second method to check if an iPhone is original or refurbished is by looking at the physical characteristics of the device. Here are the steps:
1. Check the packaging: Genuine iPhones come in a sealed box with a picture of the iPhone on the front and details of the product on the back.
2. Check the logo: The Apple logo on genuine iPhones is shiny and metallic, while on counterfeit iPhones, it may be faded or dull.
3. Check the buttons: Genuine iPhones have buttons that are evenly spaced and tactile, while counterfeit iPhones may have unevenly spaced or non-responsive buttons.
4. Check the built-in apps: Genuine iPhones come with built-in apps like iTunes Store, App Store, Maps, Contacts, and more. Counterfeit iPhones may have inconsistent apps, and some apps may not work.
5. Check the camera: Genuine iPhones have high-quality cameras, whereas counterfeit iPhones have poor quality cameras.
6. Check the weight: Genuine iPhones are lightweight and have a premium feel, while counterfeit iPhones are often heavier and feel cheap.
Pros:
– Easy to do
– Helps you verify that you have a genuine iPhone
Cons:
– Some fake iPhones can replicate original physical features
Method 3: Check the System Settings
The third method to check if an iPhone is original or refurbished is by checking the system settings. Here are the steps:
1. Go to the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Tap on “General”.
3. Tap on “About”.
4. Look for the Model field. If the model number starts with the letter M, it is most likely a genuine iPhone. If it starts with the letter A, it could be a refurbished iPhone or a fake iPhone.
5. Compare the model number with the ones listed at https://everymac.com/ultimate-mac-lookup/. If it matches, it’s likely a genuine iPhone.
Pros:
– Helps you verify the model of the iPhone
– Simple and easy to do
Cons:
– Can only verify the model, not the authenticity of the device
– Doesn’t work with all iPhones
What to Do If You Can’t Check If Your iPhone Is Original Or Refurbished
If you can’t verify whether your iPhone is original or refurbished, you can try the following fixes:
1. Take it to an authorized Apple store: This is the best option as experts can help you identify if it is original or not.
2. Check the warranty: If the iPhone is under Apple’s warranty, it is most likely a genuine iPhone.
3. Check the price: If the price is too good to be true, it could be a fake iPhone.
Bonus Tip
If you are unsure whether you have a real or fake iPhone, you can download “Fakespot” from the App Store. This app analyses product reviews and ratings to determine whether they are genuine or not.
5 FAQs
Q1: What is a refurbished iPhone?
A: A refurbished iPhone is a used iPhone that has been restored and refurbished to meet the manufacturer’s original specifications.
Q2: Can refurbished iPhones be as good as new iPhones?
A: Yes, a refurbished iPhone can be as good as a new one as they go through extensive testing and are repaired to meet the manufacturer’s specifications.
Q3: Can I return a fake iPhone?
A: It depends. If you purchased the iPhone from a reputable source, you may be able to return it. However, if you bought it from an unauthorised seller, you may not be able to get a refund.
Q4: Can counterfeit iPhones have Apple software?
A: Yes, counterfeit iPhones can have a copied iOS system with fake App Store and iTunes interfaces.
Q5: How can I avoid buying a fake iPhone?
A: Always purchase an iPhone from authorised Apple stores and resellers. If you have to buy a used iPhone, verify whether it is an original or refurbished iPhone before purchasing it.
Final Thoughts
By following the above methods and tips, you can easily check if your iPhone is original or refurbished and avoid purchasing a counterfeit one. Remember to always verify the authenticity of the iPhone before buying it to ensure your safety and to get the best product for your money.