The fastest way: check Settings on your phone

Open Settings, then tap General, then tap About. The line labeled Model shows you the exact name — iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 14, iPhone SE, and so on. This is the most reliable method because it comes straight from your device.

If you need the technical model number instead (the code Apple uses internally), it appears on the same screen as Model Number. Most people need the regular model name, not the number, but the number is useful if you are troubleshooting with Apple Support or checking repair compatibility.

Key Takeaways

  • Go to Settings > General > About and read the line labeled Model to see your exact iPhone name.
  • The physical back of your iPhone prints the model name, though it is small and sometimes hard to read in bright light.
  • The original box your iPhone came in has the model printed on the outside and inside, even if you no longer have the phone.
  • If you know your serial number, Apple's website can tell you the model, storage size, and purchase date.

Check the back of your iPhone

Look at the lower back of your iPhone, near the bottom edge. Apple prints the model name there in small text — you will see "iPhone 15", "iPhone 14 Pro", or similar. The text is usually black or white depending on your phone's color, and it is straightforward to miss in sunlight.

This method works even if your phone will not turn on or if Settings is not working. The downside is that the text is tiny and can be hard to read without good lighting or a magnifying glass. If you cannot make it out, try the Settings method instead.

Look at the original box

If you still have the box your iPhone came in, the model name is printed on the outside and inside. Check the front of the box first — it usually shows "iPhone 15" or whatever your model is in large text. The back and sides of the box also list the model, storage capacity, and color.

This works even if you no longer have the phone itself. If you sold or gave away your iPhone, the box is often the easiest way to confirm what you had. Keep in mind that the box shows what you bought, not what you currently own if you have since upgraded.

Use your serial number on Apple's website

If you have your serial number but are not sure which model it belongs to, Apple's website can look it up. Go to support.apple.com/repair, enter your serial number, and Apple will show you the model, storage size, color, and original purchase date.

You can find your serial number in Settings > General > About (it is listed as Serial Number), on the back of your phone in small text, or on your original box. This method is most useful if you are buying a used iPhone and want to verify what the seller is telling you.

Differences between iPhone models and why it matters

Knowing your exact model matters because repair costs, software support, and compatible accessories vary between models. An iPhone 15 Pro Max and an iPhone 15 are the same generation but have different screen sizes, camera systems, and prices. An iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 look similar but have different processors and features.

If you are buying a case, screen protector, or charger, the model name tells you whether it will fit. If you are checking whether your phone will run a new app or iOS version, the model determines what is supported. If you are getting a repair quote, the model is the first thing Apple Support asks for.

What to do if you cannot find your model name

If Settings will not open, the back text is unreadable, and you no longer have the box, contact Apple Support with your phone number or email address. Apple can look up your account and tell you which iPhone is registered to you. You can reach them at support.apple.com or call 1-800-MY-APPLE.

If the phone is not registered to your account (for example, if you bought it used), you can still provide the serial number to Apple and they will identify the model. The serial number is the most reliable identifier because it is unique to each phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the model name the same as the model number?

No. The model name is what you see in marketing — iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone SE. The model number is a code like A2846 that Apple uses internally. You need the model name for most purposes like buying a case or checking app compatibility. The model number is mainly for technical support or repair.

Can I tell the difference between an iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 just by looking?

Not reliably. They look almost identical from the front. The back has small differences in the camera layout, but the easiest way is to check Settings or look at the text on the back of the phone. If you are buying used, always ask the seller to show you the Settings screen.

Does my iPhone model affect which iOS version I can install?

Yes. Older models stop receiving iOS updates after a certain point. For example, iPhone XS cannot run iOS 18, but iPhone 11 and newer can. Check your model in Settings, then go to Apple's website to see which iOS versions your model supports before upgrading.

What if I bought my iPhone used and the seller told me the wrong model?

Check Settings > General > About yourself — that is the definitive answer. If the model does not match what the seller said, you have proof. You can also use the serial number on Apple's repair page to confirm the model, storage size, and original purchase date.

Does the color or storage size show up in Settings?

The storage size shows in Settings > General > About as Capacity. The color does not appear in Settings — you have to look at the phone itself or check your original box or receipt. If you need to know the color for a case or accessory, the box or your purchase receipt is the best source.