The quickest way to find your iPhone model

Open Settings, then tap General, then tap About. Look for the line that says Model — that is your iPhone's internal model number, like "A2846" or "A3111". Just below it, you will see Model Name, which tells you what most people call it: iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 14, iPhone SE, and so on.

If you want to know your model without turning on the phone, look at the back of the device. Near the bottom, you will see small printed text that includes the word "iPhone" followed by a generation name. This is the same information as Model Name, just printed instead of displayed on screen.

The model number and model name are different things, and both matter. The model name (iPhone 15 Pro Max) tells you which generation you own. The model number (A2846) tells Apple's support team and repair shops exactly which hardware version you have, because the same model name sometimes shipped with different internal parts depending on your region or when you bought it.

Key Takeaways

  • Go to Settings > General > About to see both your Model Name (like iPhone 15) and Model Number (like A2846) on one screen.
  • The Model Name is what you call your phone; the Model Number is what Apple uses to identify the exact hardware version.
  • You can also find the model name printed on the back of the phone in small text near the bottom.
  • Knowing your exact model helps when you need to buy the right charger, case, or repair part, or when you contact Apple Support.

Why your model number matters

When you contact Apple Support or take your phone to a repair shop, they will ask for your model number, not your model name. The reason is that a single model name — say, iPhone 14 — shipped in several hardware versions depending on whether you bought it in the US, Europe, Japan, or China. Each region got slightly different radio hardware to work with local networks.

If you need to replace a battery, screen, or other part, the repair technician needs to know your exact model number to order the right component. Ordering the wrong part wastes time and money. The model number is also what you need if you are checking whether your phone is covered under a recall or a known issue.

Finding your model if Settings does not work

If your phone will not turn on or Settings is not responding, the printed text on the back is your only option. Look at the lower back of the device, below the camera. You will see "iPhone" followed by a word like "Pro", "Pro Max", "Plus", or nothing at all. That is your model name.

The model number is also printed on the back, but in much smaller text. It usually starts with the letter "A" followed by four or five numbers. You may need a magnifying glass or good lighting to read it clearly. If you cannot read it, take a close-up photo with another device and zoom in on the image.

Another place to find the model name is on the original box your phone came in, if you still have it. The box clearly states "iPhone 15 Pro" or whatever model you own on the front and back.

What to do with your model information

Once you know your model, you can use it to find the right accessories. Not all chargers, cases, or screen protectors fit all iPhones — the size and port type vary between models. When you search for a case or charger online, include your model name in the search so you get results that actually fit.

Your model number is also useful if you ever sell or trade in your phone. Buyers and trade-in services use the model number to verify the phone's age, storage capacity, and condition, which all affect its value. Having the correct model number on hand speeds up the process.

If you are troubleshooting a problem — your phone is running slowly, a feature is not working, or you are getting an error message — knowing your model helps you search for solutions that explore to your specific hardware. Some bugs or performance issues affect only certain models or certain regions.

The difference between model name and model number

The model name is the marketing name Apple uses: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 14, iPhone SE (3rd generation). This is what you say when someone asks what kind of phone you have. It tells you the generation and whether it is a standard, Pro, Pro Max, or Plus version.

The model number is a code like A2846, A3111, or A2969. It is printed on the phone and stored in Settings. This number tells Apple and repair shops the exact hardware configuration, including the region where it was sold and the specific radio bands it supports. Two phones with the same model name can have different model numbers if they were sold in different countries.

You need the model name when you are shopping for cases or talking to friends about your phone. You need the model number when you are contacting support, ordering parts, or checking for recalls.

Where else your model information appears

Your model name and number also show up in a few other places. If you connect your iPhone to a Mac or Windows computer and open iTunes or Finder, the model name appears in the device summary. On an iPhone, you can also find your model name in Settings > General > About under the line labeled Model Name.

If you have iCloud enabled, you can see your model name on iCloud.com. Sign in, go to Account Settings, then look for Devices. Your iPhone will be listed with its model name next to it.

Your carrier (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or another provider) also has a record of your model number. If you call them about network issues or need to confirm your phone is compatible with a new service, they can look it up using your phone number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the model number the same as the serial number?

No. The model number (A2846) identifies the type of phone. The serial number is a unique code that identifies your specific device. You can find your serial number in the same place as your model number: Settings > General > About, under the line labeled Serial Number. You need the serial number if you are registering your phone for warranty coverage or reporting it as lost or stolen.

Can I find my model number without opening Settings?

Yes. Look at the back of your phone near the bottom. The model number is printed there in small text, usually starting with the letter "A". You can also check the original box your phone came in, or sign into iCloud.com and look at your device list. If your phone will not turn on, the printed text on the back is your best option.

Why do different regions have different model numbers?

Each region uses different cellular networks and radio frequencies. A phone sold in the US needs different radio hardware than a phone sold in Europe or Japan to connect to local networks properly. Apple assigns a different model number to each regional version so repair shops and support teams know exactly which hardware they are working with.

Do I need my model number to get my phone repaired?

You should have it ready, but the repair shop can usually look it up if you give them your serial number or phone number. However, having your model number on hand speeds things up, especially if you are ordering a part online or contacting support by phone before you visit a store.

What if the printed text on the back of my phone is worn off?

Go to Settings > General > About and write down your model number from there. You can also take a screenshot of the About screen to keep a record. If you ever need to prove your model number to a repair shop or Apple Support, the screenshot counts as proof.