The fastest way: look at the back of your phone

The simplest method is to turn your iPhone over and read the text printed on the back. Below the Apple logo, you will see a line that says "iPhone" followed by a model name — for example, "iPhone 15 Pro Max" or "iPhone 13 mini". This is your exact model.

If the text is hard to read because of wear or glare, you can also check inside the Settings app. Open Settings, tap General, then tap About. The line labeled "Model Name" shows the same information in a clearer format on your screen.

Key Takeaways

  • The model name is printed on the back of your iPhone below the Apple logo and is the most direct way to identify it.
  • Settings > General > About shows the model name on screen if the back text is worn or hard to read.
  • The model name (like iPhone 15 Pro) is different from the model number (like A2846), which you do not need for most purposes.
  • Knowing your exact model helps you find compatible accessories, check storage capacity, and understand which features your phone supports.

Finding the model name in Settings

Open the Settings app on your iPhone. Scroll down and tap General, then tap About at the top of the list. Look for the line labeled "Model Name" — this shows your iPhone model exactly as it appears on the back of the device.

This method works even if your phone's back is scratched, cracked, or covered by a case. The Settings method also shows additional details on the same screen, including your storage capacity (listed as "Capacity") and the iOS version your phone is running.

Understanding model names versus model numbers

Your iPhone has two different identifiers. The model name is what you see on the back — "iPhone 15", "iPhone 14 Pro", or "iPhone SE (3rd generation)". This is what you need to know for almost everything: buying cases, checking compatibility with apps, or describing your phone to someone else.

The model number is a code like A2846 or A3092, also visible in Settings under "Model Number". You rarely need this unless you are contacting Apple Support or checking very specific technical details. The model number tells Apple's systems which exact variant you have (which carrier, which region), but the model name tells you everything you need to know as a user.

Why your model matters

Knowing your exact model helps you make informed decisions about your phone. Different iPhone models have different storage options — an iPhone 15 might come in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB, and you need to know which one you own to understand how much space you have left. You can check this in Settings > General > About under "Capacity".

Your model also determines which features are available. The Pro models have different cameras and processing power than the standard models. The iPhone SE is smaller and less expensive than other current models. Knowing which one you have tells you what your phone is capable of and helps you find compatible accessories like chargers, cases, and screen protectors.

What to do if you cannot read the back text

If your phone's back is too worn, cracked, or covered to read the model name, Settings > General > About is your reliable backup. The model name displays clearly on screen regardless of the physical condition of your device.

If you have a case on your phone and want to check without removing it, the Settings method is faster. You do not need to take the case off — just open Settings and navigate to General > About.

Finding your model if you just bought the phone

If you have a new iPhone still in the box, the model name appears on the outside of the box itself. Look for text like "iPhone 15 Pro Max" printed on the front or back of the packaging. The box also lists the storage capacity and color.

Once you turn on the phone and complete setup, you can verify the model using either method above — the back of the phone or Settings > General > About. Both will show the same information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the model number the same as the model name?

No. The model name is what you see on the back — "iPhone 15 Pro" — and is what you need for most purposes. The model number is a code like A2846 that Apple uses internally. You only need the model number if Apple Support asks for it.

Can I find my model if I do not have the phone with me?

If you have access to your Apple ID, you can sign into iCloud.com, click your profile picture, and select "Devices". Your iPhone will be listed with its model name. You can also check your original receipt or the box the phone came in.

Does the model name tell me how much storage I have?

No. The model name tells you the type of phone — "iPhone 15 Pro Max" — but not the storage size. To find your storage capacity, go to Settings > General > About and look for "Capacity". That line shows whether you have 128GB, 256GB, or another amount.

What if my phone says "iPhone" with no other words on the back?

That is unlikely on a current iPhone, but if the back only says "iPhone", check Settings > General > About for the full model name. Older iPhones (iPhone 6s and earlier) sometimes had minimal back text, but the Settings method will still show the correct model.