The fastest way to check 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 13. This is the most direct method and works on any iPhone running iOS 10 or newer.

If you want the technical model number instead (the code Apple uses internally), it appears on the same screen as Model Number. You do not need this for most purposes — the model name is what matters when you are looking up specs, checking compatibility, or describing your phone to support staff.

If your iPhone will not turn on or Settings is not working, you can still identify it by looking at the physical phone itself. The model name is printed on the back of the device, usually near the bottom. You may need to tilt it in the light to read it clearly.

Key Takeaways

  • Go to Settings > General > About and look at the Model line to see your exact iPhone model name.
  • The model name (like iPhone 15 Pro) is different from the model number (like A2846) — use the name when checking specs or getting help.
  • If your phone will not power on, check the back of the device where the model name is printed.
  • Knowing your exact model matters because features, storage options, and repair costs vary between models.

Reading the Settings screen correctly

When you open Settings > General > About, you will see several lines of information. The one labeled Model is what you need. It will show something like "iPhone 15", "iPhone 14 Pro Max", or "iPhone SE (3rd generation)". This is the name you use when searching for information about your phone.

Below the Model line, you may see Model Number — this is a code like A2846 or A2847. This number is useful only if Apple support asks for it specifically. For everything else (checking if an app works on your phone, finding out how much storage you have, comparing features), use the model name instead.

The About screen also shows your iOS version, storage capacity, and serial number. If you are trying to identify your phone, the Model line is the only one you need to read.

Identifying your iPhone by physical appearance

If you cannot access Settings, you can identify your iPhone by looking at it. The model name is printed on the back of the phone, usually in small text near the bottom. You may need to hold it up to a light or use your phone's flashlight (if it turns on) to read it clearly.

The back of the phone also tells you the storage capacity and sometimes the color. For example, you might see "iPhone 15 Pro 256GB" printed there. This gives you the information you need without opening any menus.

If the text on the back is worn away or unreadable, the Settings method is your only option. If the phone will not turn on at all, you can still contact Apple support with the serial number (also printed on the back) and they can look up the model for you.

Why your exact model matters

Different iPhone models have different features, camera systems, and processing power. An iPhone 15 and an iPhone 15 Pro are not the same — the Pro has a better camera, a different screen, and faster performance. When you are checking whether an app will work on your phone or looking up how to fix something, you need to know which one you have.

Storage capacity also varies by model. Some models come in 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB options, while others start at 128GB. Knowing your exact model and storage amount helps you understand how much space you have left and whether you can install large apps or games.

If you ever need to sell your phone, trade it in, or get it repaired, the model name is the first thing a buyer or technician will ask for. Having this information ready saves time.

Finding your model if you have an older iPhone

The Settings method works on any iPhone from iPhone 6s and newer. If you have an older iPhone (iPhone 6, iPhone 5s, or earlier), the Settings path may be slightly different, but the information is still in the About section.

For very old iPhones that no longer receive iOS updates, the physical text on the back is your most reliable source. These older models are no longer supported by Apple, so you may have trouble finding detailed information online, but the model name itself never changes.

If you are unsure whether your iPhone is still receiving updates, check Settings > General > Software Update. If it says your phone is up to date but the iOS version is several years old, you likely have an older model that no longer receives new versions of iOS.

What to do if you see unfamiliar model names

Apple sometimes uses special names for certain models. The iPhone SE (Special Edition) is a lower-cost model that looks different from the main line. When you check Settings, it might say "iPhone SE (3rd generation)" or "iPhone SE (2nd generation)". This is still a standard iPhone — the number just tells you which version of the SE you have.

Regional models may also have slightly different names or model numbers depending on where you bought the phone, but the Settings screen will always show you the correct name for your specific device. If you see a model name you do not recognize, search for it online along with "iPhone specs" and you will find detailed information about that version.

If Settings shows something that does not look like a real iPhone model name, your phone may be a counterfeit or heavily modified device. In that case, contact Apple support with the model number and they can tell you whether it is genuine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the model number the same as the model name?

No. The model name is what you see printed on the back (like iPhone 15 Pro), and the model number is a code Apple uses internally (like A2846). When you are looking up information about your phone, use the model name. The model number is only useful if Apple support specifically asks for it.

Can I find my iPhone model without turning it on?

Yes. The model name is printed on the back of the phone near the bottom. You may need to tilt it in the light to read the small text. If the text is worn away, you can contact Apple support with the serial number (also on the back) and they can look up your model.

What if my iPhone model name looks different than I expected?

Apple uses special names for some models, like iPhone SE (Special Edition) or iPhone 15 Plus. These are all standard iPhones — the name just describes which version you have. If you are unsure what a model name means, search for it online with "iPhone specs" and you will find the full details.

Does the model number change if I update iOS?

No. Your model number and model name stay the same no matter which version of iOS you are running. Updating iOS does not change what iPhone you have — it only updates the software that runs on it.

Why do I need to know my exact model?

Different iPhone models have different features, cameras, and storage options. When you are checking app compatibility, looking up how to fix something, or getting your phone repaired, you need to know which model you have so you get the right information for your specific phone.