When purchasing a new iPhone, it’s important to ensure that you are getting a brand-new device that has not been previously used. Buying a used iPhone can lead to various issues such as a shorter lifespan, potential defects, and a lack of warranty coverage. Therefore, it is essential to know how to check if an iPhone is used or new before making your purchase. In this blog post, we will explore several methods that can help you determine the status of an iPhone and ensure you are investing in a new and reliable device.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
To check the status of an iPhone, you will need the following:
1. The iPhone you want to inspect.
2. Internet connectivity.
3. A fully charged battery.
What Requires Your Focus?
Before diving into the methods of checking whether an iPhone is used or new, there are a few factors you should pay attention to during the inspection:
1. Physical Condition: Examine the iPhone for any signs of wear and tear, such as scratches, dents, or a worn-out screen. New iPhones should be in pristine condition.
2. Original Packaging: Inspect the packaging for any signs of tampering or resealing. New iPhones should come in sealed boxes with all the original accessories.
3. Activation Lock: Ensure that the iPhone is not locked with someone else’s Apple ID. Activation Lock is a security feature that prevents unauthorized use of a lost or stolen device.
Now, let’s explore the methods you can use to determine if an iPhone is used or new.
Method 1: How to Check If iPhone Is New via Settings
Before moving on to the detailed steps, let’s first understand how this method works. Checking the activation status of an iPhone through the Settings app will provide valuable information about its usage history. By checking the warranty status, you can determine if the device is new or has been previously used.
1. Open the Settings app on the iPhone you want to inspect.
2. Tap on "General" from the list of options.
3. Scroll down and tap on "About."
4. Look for the "Model" information. Note down the model number (e.g., A1234).
5. Open a web browser on another device and visit the Apple Warranty Check webpage (https://checkcoverage.apple.com/).
6. Enter the serial number of the iPhone. If you don’t know the serial number, tap on the "i" icon next to the model information on the iPhone to display it.
7. Complete the required captcha.
8. Click on the "Continue" button to view the device’s warranty coverage.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Provides accurate information about the warranty status. | 1. Requires internet connectivity to access the Apple Warranty Check webpage. |
| 2. No additional software or tools required. | 2. Limited information about the device’s usage history apart from the warranty status. |
| 3. Quick and easy process. | 3. Does not provide information about the device’s overall condition. |
Method 2: How to Check If iPhone Is New via IMEI/Serial Number
In this method, we will use online IMEI/Serial Number checkers to verify whether an iPhone is new or used. IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique identifier used to distinguish mobile devices. Serial numbers serve a similar purpose, providing information about the device’s manufacturing and production details.
1. Find the IMEI/Serial number of the iPhone you want to inspect. You can find it on the back of the device or in the SIM card tray.
2. Open a web browser on your computer or smartphone.
3. Search for an IMEI/Serial Number checker website (e.g., IMEI24.com).
4. Enter the IMEI or Serial number in the provided field.
5. Complete any required captchas or verification steps.
6. Click on the "Check" button to view the device information.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Provides detailed information about the iPhone, including its model, manufacturing date, and origin. | 1. Requires access to a reliable IMEI/Serial Number checker website. |
| 2. Helps verify if the device is new, refurbished, or unlocked. | 2. Limited information about the device’s overall condition. |
| 3. Can detect if the device has been reported as lost or stolen. |
Method 3: How to Check If iPhone Is New via Apple Store App
If you have the Apple Store app installed on your iPhone, you can use it to check the status of other iPhones. By scanning the barcode or entering the serial number, the app will display detailed information about the iPhone’s status, including whether it is new or refurbished.
1. Launch the Apple Store app on your iPhone.
2. Tap on the "Search" tab located at the bottom.
3. In the search bar, type "iPhone" followed by the model or storage capacity you want to check (e.g., iPhone 12 Pro).
4. Scroll through the list of results and find the iPhone you want to inspect.
5. Tap on the iPhone listing to view its details.
6. Scroll down to the "Description" section to see if it mentions whether the device is new or refurbished.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Provides real-time information directly from Apple’s official store. | 1. Requires the Apple Store app to be installed and updated on your iPhone. |
| 2. Offers a convenient way to check the status of iPhones available for purchase. | 2. Limited to checking iPhones available through Apple’s online store. |
| 3. Helps verify if the device is new, refurbished, or unlocked. |
Method 4: How to Check If iPhone Is New via Serial Number Checkup
The Serial Number Checkup method is another reliable way to verify the status of an iPhone. By using Apple’s official Serial Number Checkup tool, you can obtain detailed information about the device, including its purchase date, warranty coverage, and initial activation details.
1. Open a web browser on your computer or smartphone.
2. Visit Apple’s Official Warranty Status webpage (https://checkcoverage.apple.com/).
3. Enter the Serial Number of the iPhone you want to inspect.
4. Complete any required captchas or verification steps.
5. Click on the "Continue" button to view the device’s warranty coverage.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Provides accurate information about the warranty status and initial activation details. | 1. Requires access to the Apple Serial Number Checkup tool through a web browser. |
| 2. Helps determine if the device is new or refurbished. | 2. Limited information about the device’s overall condition. |
| 3. Quick and straightforward process. |
Why Can’t I Verify If an iPhone Is New?
1. The iPhone Is Sealed with an Activation Lock: If the iPhone you are inspecting is sealed with an Activation Lock, it means the device is still linked to someone else’s Apple ID. This indicates that the iPhone has been used and is not new. To resolve this issue, ask the seller to remove the Activation Lock before purchasing the device.
2. The iPhone Is Missing the Original Packaging and Accessories: New iPhones usually come in sealed boxes with all the original accessories. If the iPhone you are considering does not have the original packaging or is missing essential accessories like the charging cable and headphones, it may be a sign that the device is not new.
3. The iPhone Shows Physical Signs of Wear and Tear: Scratches, dents, or other physical damages to the iPhone are clear indications that the device has been previously used. New iPhones should be in pristine condition without any signs of wear and tear.
4. The iPhone Has an Older Manufacturing Date: You can use the Serial Number Checkup method to check the manufacturing date of the iPhone. If the manufacturing date is considerably older than the current year, it may indicate that the device has been sitting in storage for a while and is not brand new.
Implications and Recommendations
1. Purchase from Authorized Retailers: To ensure you are buying a new iPhone, it is highly recommended to purchase directly from Apple Stores or authorized retailers. This way, you can guarantee the authenticity and condition of the device.
2. Inspect the Device Thoroughly: Before making your purchase, thoroughly inspect the iPhone for any signs of wear, missing accessories, or tampered packaging. Take your time to examine the device from every angle and ask the seller for clarification on any concerns.
3. Check Warranty and Return Policy: Always check the warranty coverage and return policy before finalizing your purchase. This will provide you with peace of mind and a safety net in case any issues arise with the iPhone.
5 FAQs about Checking If an iPhone Is New
Q1: Can I check if an iPhone is new by looking at the box only?
A: While the box can provide some initial clues, it is not a foolproof method. Some sellers may reseal boxes to make used iPhones appear new. Always inspect the physical condition of the iPhone and use additional methods to verify its status.
Q2: Are refurbished iPhones considered new?
A: No, refurbished iPhones have undergone repairs or replacements and can no longer be considered brand new. Refurbished devices go through a thorough inspection process to ensure they meet quality standards before being re-sold.
Q3: Are there any risks in buying a used iPhone?
A: Yes, buying a used iPhone comes with risks such as potential hardware defects, a shorter lifespan, limited warranty coverage, and the possibility of being locked with someone else’s Apple ID. It is advisable to thoroughly inspect the device and consider purchasing from reliable sources.
Q4: Can I trust IMEI/Serial Number checkers?
A: While most IMEI/Serial Number checkers are reliable, there is always a small chance of encountering inaccurate information. It is recommended to use multiple methods for verification and cross-reference the data obtained.
Q5: Should I consider purchasing an open-box iPhone?
A: Open-box iPhones are devices that were returned by customers shortly after purchase. They are often in excellent condition and can be a more affordable alternative to new iPhones. However, it is crucial to verify the warranty coverage and ensure that all original accessories are included.
Final Words
Checking if an iPhone is new before purchasing it is vital to ensure you are getting a reliable device with warranty coverage. By using the methods discussed in this blog post, you can easily verify the status of an iPhone and make an informed decision. Remember to always inspect the device physically, pay attention to the packaging, and consider purchasing from authorized retailers for a hassle-free experience with your new iPhone.