Introduction
One of the biggest issues iPhone users face is being able to identify which model they have. This is an important problem to solve because knowing exactly which model you have can help when troubleshooting issues, purchasing accessories, or determining trade-in value. There are a variety of methods to determine which model of iPhone you have, and in this article, we will explore each one to help you find the right solution for you.
Use Physical Characteristics
One of the easiest ways to determine which iPhone model you have is by examining the physical characteristics. For example, the size of the screen, button designs, and ports can all indicate which model you have. Apple provides visual guides on their website to help users identify different models based on physical characteristics.
To access these visual guides, simply visit Apple’s support website and search for “Identify your iPhone model.” From there, you will be able to select the physical features that match your device and narrow down the possibilities until you find your exact model.
Look at the iOS Version
Your iPhone’s iOS version can also help determine which model you have. Each iPhone model has a specific range of iOS versions it can support. To find your iOS version, go to Settings > General > About and look for the “Version” number.
Apple typically releases new iOS updates for two or three years after a device is released. If your iPhone supports the latest version of iOS, it is likely a newer model. If it only supports an older version, it may be an older model.
Here is a list of iPhone models and the corresponding iOS versions they support:
- iPhone 4S – iOS 9.3.6
- iPhone 5 – iOS 10.3.4
- iPhone 5C – iOS 10.3.4
- iPhone 5S – iOS 12.5.1
- iPhone 6/6 Plus – iOS 12.5.1
- iPhone 6S/6S Plus – iOS 14.4
- iPhone SE (1st generation) – iOS 14.4
- iPhone 7/7 Plus – iOS 14.4
- iPhone 8/8 Plus – iOS 14.4
- iPhone X – iOS 14.4
- iPhone XR – iOS 14.4
- iPhone XS/XS Max – iOS 14.4
- iPhone 11 – iOS 14.4
- iPhone SE (2nd generation) – iOS 14.4
- iPhone 12 mini/12/12 Pro/12 Pro Max – iOS 14.4
Use the Model Number
Each iPhone model has a unique model number that can be found within the Settings app. To find it, go to Settings > General > About and look for the “Model” number. This number is typically in the format of “Axxxx.”
The first letter in the model number indicates the region in which the iPhone was sold. The following numbers indicate the device’s model number and specifications. For example, an “A1633” model number indicates that the device is an iPhone 6s with 16GB of storage and is sold in the United States.
Check the Carrier
Some carriers have exclusive deals with certain iPhone models. For example, the iPhone SE (2nd generation) was only available through Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. If you purchased your iPhone through a carrier and are unable to find the model number or physical characteristics to identify it, contact your carrier to find out which specific model you have.
In addition to this, it is also important to note that some iPhone models are only compatible with certain carriers. For example, the iPhone 12 models are compatible with all major US carriers, but some older models may only work with certain carriers.
Use a Web App
There are a variety of web applications available that can help identify your iPhone model. These apps typically ask for details such as the device’s model number or physical characteristics to narrow down the possibilities.
Two reliable web applications that can help identify your iPhone model are:
When using these apps, be sure to input accurate information to receive the most accurate results.
Connect to iTunes
Connecting your iPhone to iTunes can also help identify which model you have. To do this, connect your device to your computer and open iTunes. From there, select your device, and the model information will be displayed on the Summary tab.
It is important to note that connecting to iTunes requires an iTunes account. If you do not have an iTunes account, you may need to create one to use this method.
Use Siri
Siri can also help identify your iPhone model. Simply ask Siri “What model iPhone do I have?” and she will tell you the specific model you have. This method works for iPhone 4s and newer models that have Siri enabled.
Conclusion
There are a variety of methods available to help determine which model iPhone you have. Physical characteristics, iOS version, model number, carrier, web apps, connecting to iTunes, and using Siri are all effective methods to use. Choose the method that is most convenient for you and be sure to accurately input information to receive the most accurate results. Knowing which model iPhone you have can make troubleshooting issues, purchasing accessories, and determining trade-in value much easier.