It's surprisingly easy to figure out which iPhone you're holding. The quickest method by far is to just pop into your phone's settings.
Simply go to Settings > General > About. Right at the top, you'll see the official 'Model Name'—no guesswork needed.
Why It’s So Important to Know Your iPhone Model
You might be thinking, "It's just an iPhone, right?" Well, yes and no. Knowing the exact model is the key to unlocking its true potential and value, whether you're looking for the right case, troubleshooting a problem, or getting ready to upgrade.
For our customers across Redhill, Merstham, and the rest of Surrey, this one little detail is the starting point for getting a precise and fair quote when you decide to sell your iPhone to us. It makes all the difference.
Understanding your iPhone's specific capabilities also plays a huge part in keeping it secure. For example, your model's hardware and software version are important factors when you're looking into finding the best VPN for your iPhone.
With iPhones making up a massive 48.5% of the UK mobile market, there's an incredible variety of models out there. This popularity means that being able to pinpoint your exact version is crucial for everything from getting a screen repair to trading it in for the latest model.
Ultimately, knowing your model puts you in control. It helps you make smarter decisions and get the best possible value for your device.
Once you’ve got that information, you're just one step away from finding out what it's worth. Fill out our simple sales form to get an instant, fair valuation.
The Easiest Way: A Quick Peek Inside Your Settings
Forget squinting at the back of your phone or digging out the original box. If your iPhone turns on, the most reliable answer is sitting right there in your pocket. Honestly, it’s the first place I always look.
Just head over to your Settings app – that’s the grey one with the gear icon. From there, tap on General, and then go into About.
Right at the top, you’ll see the Model Name. It’ll tell you in plain English what you’re holding, whether it’s an "iPhone 15 Pro" or an "iPhone SE". Easy. A little further down, you'll spot the Model Number, which gives you a bit more of the backstory.
What Your iPhone's Model Number Means
The first letter of your iPhone's model number tells a story about its origin. It's a handy little detail to know, especially if you didn't buy the phone brand new yourself. Here’s a quick guide to what each letter means.
Knowing this little detail is really useful. For instance, if you're in Redhill and want to get a price for your old phone, having the correct model information is key to getting an accurate quote. It helps you fill out our instant valuation form with confidence, ensuring you know exactly what you have.
Using Physical Clues to Identify Your iPhone
What if your iPhone is completely dead and won't turn on? Don't panic. You can still play detective and figure out the model just by looking at it. Think of it as a quick visual field guide to iPhones.
A great place to start is with the edges. If the phone has sharp, flat sides, you're looking at an iPhone 12 or something newer. In contrast, older models like the iPhone 11 and its predecessors have softer, more rounded edges. This one simple observation can instantly narrow down the possibilities.
The Camera Never Lies
Another dead giveaway is the camera layout on the back. It's one of the most obvious visual changes between generations.
- The iPhone 13 and 14 have their two main cameras arranged diagonally.
- The iPhone 11 and 12 have a more straightforward vertical stack.
- Anything with a big, square camera bump sporting three lenses is a Pro model.
Finding the Hidden 'A' Number
For definitive proof, you'll want to find the 'A' model number. It's a tiny number printed directly onto the device itself, but its location has changed over the years.
On an iPhone 8 or a more recent model, you’ll need to pop out the SIM card tray and inspect it closely – the 'A' number is printed right on there.
For an iPhone 7 or any older model, flip it over. You should find the 'A' number etched in tiny text on the back of the phone's casing.
These physical checks are a lifesaver for anyone in Horley or Reigate with a non-responsive phone who just wants a quick valuation.
Once you have a good idea of which model you're holding, the next step is to see what it's worth. Pop the details into our online sales form and get an instant quote.
The Foolproof Method: Using Your Serial Number or IMEI
If you want to be absolutely, positively sure about your iPhone's model, nothing beats using its unique identifiers. Think of the serial number or the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) as your phone's personal fingerprint—no two are the same. This is the definitive way to know exactly what you have, with zero guesswork involved.
So, where do you find these magic numbers? There are a few handy places to look:
- In your Settings: Tap on Settings > General > About. You'll see both the serial number and IMEI listed there.
- On the SIM tray: If you pop out the SIM tray on most models, you'll find the IMEI finely engraved on it.
- The quick dial trick: Open your phone's keypad, dial *#06#, and the IMEI will pop up on your screen instantly.
Once you’ve jotted down one of these numbers, simply pop over to Apple's Check Coverage page. Punch in the serial number, and it will immediately tell you the exact model, its colour, storage size, and even its warranty status. It doesn’t get more official than that.
This level of accuracy is crucial. Here in the UK, where iPhones have consistently dominated over 40% of the mobile market for years, getting the model right is essential for everyone from repair shops in Redhill to tech recyclers in Merstham. You can dig into Apple's long-standing UK market presence on Statista if you’re curious about the numbers.
For us, it means that when you use this info to fill out our sales form, you're guaranteed to get the most accurate quote possible for your device.
Using Your Computer to Find the Model
Got an iPhone with a broken screen that still powers on? Don't worry, your computer can be your best friend here. It's a surprisingly simple trick that works just as well on a Mac as it does on a Windows PC.
All you need to do is connect your iPhone to your computer with a USB cable. On a modern Mac, a Finder window should automatically pop up, listing your iPhone in the sidebar. If you're on a Windows machine, the Apple Devices app (or good old iTunes on older versions) will do the same job.
What to Look For
Once it’s connected, your computer will bring up a summary screen for the phone. Right at the top, clear as day, you’ll see the iPhone's model name displayed just below the name you've given it. This screen is a goldmine of information, also showing you the serial number and the iOS version.
This method is an absolute lifesaver when the screen is completely dead or unresponsive. It gives you a foolproof way to get the information you need for an accurate valuation, whether you’re in Redhill, Merstham, or anywhere else.
Now that you have the model name, you're ready to see what it's worth. Pop the details into our quick sales form for an instant, no-strings-attached quote.
Ready to Sell Your iPhone? Let's Get You Paid.
So, you’ve done the detective work and pinned down your exact iPhone model. Nice one! That’s genuinely the hardest part over with, and now you’re all set for the best bit: turning that old phone into cash.
Knowing the model is everything when it comes to getting a fair price. It ensures you get an accurate quote without any last-minute surprises. Here at EXE, we pride ourselves on making the process straightforward and rewarding for our local community in Redhill and the surrounding areas like Merstham.
You've got the key information, so why hang about?
Let's find out what your iPhone is actually worth. Pop over to our super simple sales form and you'll get an instant, no-strings-attached quote. It’s the fastest way to see the value in that device and get paid for it.
Got a Question? We’ve Probably Heard It!
People often pop into our Redhill shop a bit stumped about which iPhone they actually own. It’s a common thing, especially if you’ve bought it second-hand or it’s been a while since you upgraded. Here are a few of the questions we get asked all the time.
What if the Model Number on the Back Doesn’t Match the One in Settings?
This is a classic one, and it’s a great question. If you’re seeing a mismatch, it almost always means the phone has had its housing or back casing replaced at some point.
In this scenario, always, always trust what’s in the Settings app. The software is linked directly to the logic board—the phone's brain—so that’s your source of truth. The number etched on the outside is just that, on the outside.
Can I Just Look at the Original Box?
Definitely! If you're one of those organised people who keeps the original packaging, you've got the easiest method right there.
The box will have a sticker on it that spells everything out for you: the official model name (like "iPhone 14 Pro"), its serial number, IMEI, and the 'A' model number. It's a fantastic shortcut for when the phone won't turn on.
As a quick tip: the info on the box should perfectly match what's in the phone's Settings. If it doesn't, you might have a phone in the wrong box—something to be mindful of if you're buying used.
Does the Colour or Storage Size Tell Me the Model?
Not really, no. It’s tempting to think a specific colour points to a specific model, and sometimes a special edition shade is exclusive for a year (like the iPhone 13 Pro's Sierra Blue).
However, Apple reuses most colours and storage options across different generations. So while it can be a clue, it's not a reliable way to identify your iPhone. You’ll need the official model name or number to be 100% certain.
Now that you’re clued up on your exact iPhone model, you’re all set to get a fantastic price for it. Here at EXE, we make trading in your old tech for cash completely straightforward. Why not fill out our quick and easy sales form and get an instant, no-obligation quote today?
