The fastest way to find your iPhone model

Open Settings, then tap General, then tap About. Look for the line that says Model — that is your iPhone model name, like "iPhone 15 Pro" or "iPhone 14". The line labeled Model Number shows a code like "A2846" that Apple uses internally; you usually do not need this one.

If your phone is off or will not turn on, flip it over and look at the back. Near the bottom, you will see small text that starts with "iPhone" followed by a number and sometimes a word like "Pro" or "Max". That is your model. The text is small but readable in good light.

You can also find your model in the original box your iPhone came in, printed on the back or side. If you no longer have the box, the Settings route is the most reliable.

Key Takeaways

  • Go to Settings > General > About and look at the Model line to see your exact iPhone model name.
  • The Model Number in the same screen is a code Apple uses internally and is rarely needed for everyday purposes.
  • If your phone will not power on, check the back of the device for printed text showing the model name.
  • Your original iPhone box also lists the model on the packaging if you still have it.

Why you might need to know your iPhone model

Your model number matters when you are buying a case, screen protector, or charger — the wrong size will not fit. It also matters if you need to contact Apple Support about a repair or warranty issue, because some problems are specific to certain models. Support staff will ask for your model to pull up the right troubleshooting steps.

Your model also tells you which iOS versions your phone can run. Older models like the iPhone XS cannot update to the newest iOS, while newer models like the iPhone 15 can. If you are thinking about updating your phone's software, knowing your model helps you understand what features will be available to you.

What the model name actually tells you

The model name includes the generation number and sometimes a size or capability marker. "iPhone 15" is the standard version from 2023. "iPhone 15 Plus" is the larger standard version. "iPhone 15 Pro" has better cameras and a faster chip. "iPhone 15 Pro Max" is both larger and has the Pro features.

The number itself — 15, 14, 13, and so on — tells you roughly how old your phone is. iPhone 15 came out in September 2023. iPhone 14 came out in September 2022. Each generation usually lasts about a year before the next one launches. Older iPhones like the iPhone 11 or iPhone SE are still in use and still receive software updates, but they will eventually stop being supported.

Finding your model if you are buying a used iPhone

If you are looking at a used iPhone before you buy it, ask the seller to open Settings > General > About and show you the screen. The Model line is what you want to see. Do not rely on what the seller tells you verbally — people often confuse "iPhone 12" with "iPhone 12 Pro" or forget whether it is a Plus or Max version.

You can also ask the seller for the IMEI number, which is a unique identifier for that specific phone. It appears in the same About screen. You can then check Apple's website or call Apple Support with the IMEI to confirm the exact model and whether the phone has any outstanding recalls or service issues.

Model number versus IMEI and serial number

Three different codes appear in your About screen, and they serve different purposes. The Model is what you need for cases and basic information — it is the human-readable name like "iPhone 15 Pro". The Model Number is a short code like "A2846" that Apple uses internally; you rarely need this unless Apple Support specifically asks for it.

The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit number unique to your specific phone. It is used by carriers to identify your device on their network and by Apple to check warranty status or service history. The Serial Number is another unique identifier, shorter than the IMEI, also used for warranty and repair tracking. For most everyday purposes, you only need the Model name.

Checking your model on the carrier's website

If you have an iPhone on a carrier plan — Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or another provider — you can also log into your carrier's website or app and look at your account details. Most carriers show your device model and sometimes even the storage capacity. This is useful if you have lost access to your phone or it will not turn on.

Call your carrier's customer service line if you cannot find it online. Have your phone number or account number ready. They can tell you the model in seconds and may also tell you when your phone was activated on their network.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the model number the same as the model name?

No. The model name is what you see in Settings and on the back of the phone — like "iPhone 15 Pro". The model number is a code like "A2846" that Apple uses internally. You need the model name for buying accessories; Apple Support might ask for the model number during repairs.

Can I find my iPhone model if the phone is locked?

Yes. The model name is printed on the back of the phone in small text near the bottom. You can read it without unlocking the phone. If you cannot read the back clearly, you can also check your original box or contact your carrier with your phone number.

Does the storage capacity show up in the model name?

No. The model name tells you the generation and type — like "iPhone 15 Pro" — but not whether you have 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB. You can find the storage amount in Settings > General > About under the Capacity line.

What if my phone says "iPhone" but no number or name?

That usually means the text on the back is too worn to read. Go to Settings > General > About instead. If the phone will not turn on at all, contact Apple Support with your IMEI or serial number if you have it, or ask your carrier to look it up for you.

Why do I need to know my model before buying a case?

iPhone models have slightly different sizes and button placements. A case made for iPhone 14 will not fit an iPhone 15 properly — the camera cutouts will be in the wrong place. Always match the case to your exact model name to may support it fits correctly.