Check the Settings app on your iPhone

The fastest way to find out what iPhone you have is to open Settings, tap General, then tap About. Look for the line that says Model — this shows the exact name of your iPhone, like iPhone 15 Pro Max or iPhone SE (3rd generation).

The About screen also shows your iOS version, storage capacity, serial number, and IMEI. If you need to know any of these details for repairs, insurance, or technical support, this is where you'll find them all in one place. The storage capacity line tells you whether your phone is 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, or larger, which matters when comparing specs or selling a used device.

Key Takeaways

  • Open Settings, tap General, then About to see your exact iPhone model name and iOS version in seconds.
  • The back of your iPhone has a small model number starting with "A" (like A2846) that you can cross-reference with Apple's official list if Settings is not accessible.
  • If you have the original box, the model name is printed on the back or inside the lid, and this information survives even if your phone won't power on.
  • Siri can tell you your iPhone model if you ask "What iPhone do I have?" — this works on any iPhone with Siri enabled.
  • Your model number determines which iOS versions your phone can run and which accessories and repairs are compatible with it.

Look at the physical markings on the back

Turn your iPhone over and look at the back. Near the bottom, you'll see small text that includes a model number starting with the letter "A" followed by four digits (for example, A2846). This is Apple's internal model identifier, and it's printed directly on the device.

You can search this model number on Apple's official support pages to find the exact iPhone model, storage size, and color options that match. This method works even if your iPhone won't turn on or if Settings is not accessible. The model number stays the same regardless of storage capacity or color, so it's a reliable way to identify your phone when other methods aren't available.

Ask Siri directly

If your iPhone is on and Siri is enabled, you can simply say "What iPhone do I have?" or "What model is my iPhone?" Siri will respond with the exact model name and iOS version.

This is the quickest option if you're already holding your phone and don't want to navigate menus. Siri works on iPhone 4S and newer, so this method is available on nearly every iPhone still in use. You can activate Siri by holding the side button or home button, depending on your model.

Check the original box or receipt

If you still have the box your iPhone came in, the model name is printed on the back or inside the lid. The receipt or order confirmation from your carrier or Apple also lists the exact model you purchased.

This method only works if you have these documents available, but it's useful if your phone is damaged or won't power on and you need to know the model for warranty or insurance purposes. The box also typically shows the storage capacity and color, which can be helpful when verifying what you own or when dealing with a carrier or insurance company.

Use Apple's model number lookup

Apple publishes an official list that matches model numbers (the "A" numbers on the back) to specific iPhone models. Visit Apple's support page for "Identify your iPhone model" and search for your model number to confirm the exact name, generation, and release year.

This is the most reliable method if you have the model number but are unsure which iPhone it is. The list includes every iPhone ever released and notes which models are no longer supported by the latest iOS. This matters because older models may not run the newest software, which affects security updates and app compatibility.

Why knowing your iPhone model matters

Your iPhone model determines which iOS versions it can run, which accessories are compatible, and whether it's may be able to access for repairs or warranty service. If you're buying a used iPhone, knowing the exact model helps you verify the seller's claims and check the device's age and expected lifespan.

When you contact Apple Support or your carrier's technical support, having your model number ready speeds up the process. Repair shops also need the model number to order the correct parts and ensure they're working on the right device. Additionally, your model affects which chargers, cases, and screen protectors will fit properly, so identifying it correctly saves time and money when buying accessories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between the model name and the model number?

The model name is what you see in Settings — like "iPhone 15 Pro" — and is what most people call their phone. The model number is Apple's internal code (like A2846) printed on the back. Both identify your iPhone, but the model name is more useful for everyday purposes, while the model number is what Apple uses internally and what you'll need for official lookups.

Can I find out my iPhone model if it won't turn on?

Yes. Look at the back of the phone for the model number starting with "A", then search that number on Apple's official model lookup page. You can also check the original box, receipt, or contact your carrier with your phone's serial number to confirm the model.

Does the storage size show up in Settings?

Yes. In Settings > General > About, you'll see "Capacity" listed, which shows how much storage your iPhone has (64GB, 128GB, 256GB, etc.). This is different from the available storage, which shows how much space is currently free on your device.

What if my iPhone model isn't listed anywhere?

This is extremely rare. If you can't find your model number on Apple's official list, double-check that you're reading the code correctly — it should start with "A" and be four digits. If you're still stuck, contact Apple Support with your serial number and they can identify it for you.