Wondering “what iPhone do I have?” You’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. Whether you’re trading it in, buying accessories, or troubleshooting repairs, knowing your iPhone model is a must.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to identify your iPhone model, even if it’s missing parts, won’t turn on, or has no SIM tray.
Table of Contents
Why You Might Need to Know Your iPhone Model
Knowing your exact iPhone model helps with:
- ✅ Getting the right accessories (cases, screen protectors, etc.)
- ✅ Making sure you get accurate repairs or replacement parts
- ✅ Installing software updates that match your hardware
- ✅ Selling or trading it in at the correct value
Fastest Way: Check in Settings
If your iPhone turns on, this is by far the easiest method.
- Open Settings
- Tap General > About
- Look for Model Name and Model Number
👉 Tip: If the Model Number starts with a letter (like MHLV3LL/A), tap it once to reveal the “A” number (e.g., A2483). That’s your actual iPhone model number.
If Your iPhone Has a SIM Tray or Back Engraving
If your iPhone is older (think iPhone 7 through iPhone XS), you may still find identifying info physically printed:
- SIM Tray: Remove the tray and look for a small engraved model number (e.g., A1921)
- Back of the Phone: Flip it over—older models have the model number engraved near the bottom
🛠️ Just Google the number: “iPhone A1921” to match it to the correct model.
If Your iPhone Has Neither: Use Apple’s Model Lookup
Newer iPhones (like the iPhone 14 and 15 series) no longer include model numbers on the device or have physical SIM trays.
Don’t panic—try one of these:
- Go to Settings > General > About (if it turns on)
- Check your Apple ID Devices at iCloud.com
- Look at the original box or receipt
- Use Apple’s official model lookup with your serial number
🔍 You’ll find the serial number in Settings or etched into the SIM tray (if it has one).
If Your iPhone Won’t Turn On
💥 Dropped your phone while running? Took a swim? Dead battery? Don’t worry—we’ve got your back.
Here’s how to figure out your iPhone model if it’s unresponsive:
- Check the SIM tray for an engraved number (if applicable)
- Look at the original packaging or Apple receipt
- Use your Apple ID on another device or on iCloud.com: Go to Settings > Devices to view model info
- Serial number still visible? Use Apple’s Model Lookup
iPhone Model Timeline (Every iPhone Ever Released)
Here’s a quick-reference guide to help match model numbers to names:
Year | iPhone Model | Model Numbers |
---|---|---|
2023 | iPhone 15 / 15 Pro | A2846, A2849, A3101, A3106 |
2022 | iPhone 14 / 14 Pro | A2649, A2650, A2651, A2890 |
2021 | iPhone 13 Series | A2482, A2631, A2634, A2635 |
2020 | iPhone 12 Series | A2172, A2402, A2404, A2406 |
2019 | iPhone 11 Series | A2111, A2221, A2223 |
2018 | iPhone XR, XS, XS Max | A1984, A1920, A2101 |
2017 | iPhone 8 / X | A1863, A1901, A1905 |
2016 | iPhone SE (1st) / 7 | A1660, A1778, A1723 |
… | … | … |
👉 Full list available from Apple here
Final Thoughts
Identifying your iPhone model doesn’t have to be a headache—even if it’s broken, missing info, or fresh out of the box. Follow the steps above and you’ll know exactly which iPhone you have in minutes.
Need help bringing your iPhone over to a better plan? Check out US Mobile’s iPhone plans or trade-in options. Want to know how to find what phone you have? Check this blog post out.