The quickest way to find your iPhone model

Open Settings, tap General, then tap About. Look for the line that says "Model" — that's your iPhone model name, like iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 14. You'll also see "Model Number" on the same screen, which is a code like A2846 that Apple uses internally. Either one will tell you exactly which iPhone you have.

If you can't access Settings, you can find the model name printed on the back of your iPhone, usually near the bottom. On newer iPhones (iPhone XS and later), it just says "iPhone". On older models, it says "iPhone 6s" or "iPhone 11" or whatever generation yours is. This physical label is the fastest way if your phone won't turn on or Settings isn't working.

Key Takeaways

  • Settings > General > About shows your model name and model number in one place.
  • The model name (like iPhone 15 Pro Max) appears on the back of your phone and in Settings.
  • The model number is a code like A2846 that you need when contacting Apple Support or checking warranty status.
  • If your phone won't turn on, the model name printed on the back is your only option.

What the model name tells you

The model name is the marketing name Apple uses — iPhone 15, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone SE (3rd generation). This is what you need to know if you're buying a case, looking up specs, or telling someone what phone you have. The model name tells you the generation and whether you have a standard, Plus, Pro, or Pro Max version.

Each model name corresponds to a release year, though not always the year printed on the phone. The iPhone 15 came out in September 2023. The iPhone 14 came out in September 2022. Knowing your model name is enough for most everyday purposes — finding compatible chargers, checking storage capacity, or seeing what iOS version your phone can run.

What the model number means

The model number is a letter followed by four digits, like A2846 or A3094. Apple uses this code to track the exact hardware configuration of your phone, including which region it was sold in and which carrier it's locked to (if any). You'll need this number if you contact Apple Support, file a warranty claim, or check your phone's repair history.

You can find the model number in Settings under About, or printed on the SIM tray (the small slot on the side of your phone where the SIM card goes). If you remove the SIM tray, you'll see the model number etched into the plastic. This number is also useful if you're selling your phone and want to verify its exact specifications to a buyer.

Finding your iPhone model if Settings won't open

If your phone is frozen or Settings crashes when you try to open it, look at the back of your iPhone. The model name is printed there — you'll see "iPhone 15 Pro" or "iPhone 13 mini" or whatever your phone is. This label is permanent and doesn't require power or software to read.

If the back label is worn away or unreadable, you can also check the SIM tray. Remove it by inserting a SIM ejector tool (or a straightened paperclip) into the small hole on the side of your phone. The model number will be printed on the tray itself. Once you have the model number, you can search Apple's support site to find the corresponding model name.

How to check your iOS version at the same time

While you're in Settings > General > About, you'll also see "Software Version" or "iOS Version" — this tells you which version of iOS your phone is running, like iOS 17.2 or iOS 18. This is different from your model name. Your model is the hardware; your iOS version is the operating system software.

Knowing both is useful because some features and security updates only work on certain iOS versions. If you're troubleshooting a problem or checking whether your phone can run a new app, you need both pieces of information. The iOS version can be updated through Settings > General > Software Update, but your model name never changes.

Using your model information for support and repairs

When you contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store, have your model name and model number ready. Support staff use the model number to pull up your phone's exact specifications and repair history. If you're under warranty or have AppleCare+, the model number helps them verify your coverage.

If you're buying a replacement part, a case, or a screen protector, the model name is what you need to search for. A case made for iPhone 15 Pro won't fit an iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Pro Max — the sizes are different. Using your exact model name ensures you get something that actually fits your phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the model number the same as the serial number?

No. The model number (like A2846) identifies what type of iPhone you have. The serial number is a unique code that identifies your specific phone. You can find the serial number in Settings > General > About, below the model number. Apple uses the serial number to track warranty coverage and repair history for your individual device.

Why does my iPhone say different model numbers in different places?

You might see different model numbers if your phone was sold in different regions or to different carriers. A model number starting with A might be the US version, while one starting with B might be the European version. Both are the same iPhone model (like iPhone 15 Pro), just configured for different markets. This doesn't affect how your phone works.

Can I tell how much storage my iPhone has from the model name?

No. The model name (iPhone 15 Pro) doesn't include storage capacity. You need to check Settings > General > About and look for "Capacity" or "Storage". Your phone might be 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB depending on which version you bought. The model name alone doesn't tell you this.

What if I can't find the model name printed on the back?

If the back label is completely worn away, use Settings > General > About to find the model number, then search that number on Apple's support site. Apple maintains a list matching model numbers to model names. You can also contact Apple Support with the model number and they'll tell you the model name.