How to check if the iPhone is real
What to look out for
There are several ways to check if your iPhone is original or not. For this, you need to pay special attention to the main points:
When determining a fake gadget from the original, you need to take into account all the details, because many fake manufacturers do not take such nuances into account.
To protect yourself from buying a quality copy, it is better to buy a branded smartphone in Apple chain stores and official outlets. Of course, the cost of the gadget here will be a little more expensive, but you can be sure of the authenticity of the purchased iPhone.
Important! One of the most common signs of counterfeit iPhone is the presence of two slots for SIM cards, removable back panel and battery, a telescopic antenna and a slot for memory cards.
How to check the iPhone for authenticity
Below we look at several ways to ensure that this is not a cheap knockoff, but the original. In order to be sure, when examining the gadget, try to use not just one method described below, but all at once.
comparison of IMEI
At the production stage every iPhone is given a unique IMEI identifier, which is programmed into the phone, printed on its body and also written on the box.
When checking your iPhone for authenticity, make sure the IMEI matches both on the menu and on the case. A mismatch in the ID should tell you that either the device has been manipulated, which the seller didn’t tell you, for example, the housing has been replaced, or you don’t have an iPhone in front of you at all.
Apple website
In addition to the IMEI, each Apple-device has its own unique serial number, which can be used to check its authenticity at the official Apple website.
IMEI.info
Knowing the IMEI of your device, when checking your phone for originality, it’s definitely worth using the online IMEI service.info, which can provide a lot of interesting information about your gadget.
Appearance
Be sure to check the appearance of the device and its box, no Chinese characters (unless the iPhone was purchased in China), no misspelled words should be allowed here.
On the back of the box, look at the specifications of the device they should match exactly what your iPhone has (you can compare the specifications of the phone itself through Settings Basic About This Device).
Naturally, there should be no antennas for the TV and other inappropriate details. If you have never before seen what a real iPhone looks like, it is better to take time to go to any store, distributing apple equipment and carefully study the exhibition sample.
Software
iOS operating system is used as the software on Apple smartphones, while the vast majority of the fakes work under Android with a shell, extremely similar to the apple system.
In this case, the fake is quite easy to identify: downloading applications on the original iPhone is from the App Store, and on fakes from Google Play Market (or an alternative app store). The App Store for iOS 11 should look like this:
-
To make sure you’re looking at the iPhone, follow the link below to the WhatsApp download page. You should do this from the standard Safari browser (this is important). Normally, your phone will prompt you to open the app in the App Store, and then it can be downloaded from the store.
These are the basic ways to determine if you have a real iPhone in front of you or not. But perhaps the most important factor is the price: an original working device with no major damage can not be much lower than the market price, even if the seller justifies it by the fact that he needs money in a hurry.
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The American company is not really struggling with home-grown manufacturers in China, because the price difference between the original and fake for the average American is not a big deal. But for residents of countries with a lower standard of living, saving even a couple thousand will be tangible.
The most common criteria can be represented as a table.
Real iPhone | A “gray” device |
Sleek solid body, quality coloring | The presence of gaps, cracks, chips, the display does not fit tightly, the body paint is easily erased, there are contrast scratches |
Quality buttons, there is a click when you press | There is a backlash in the work, it is difficult to press, work without a click, extra crunch and crackle |
Even, small, but easy to read inscriptions, indicate the model number, IMEI, which fully comply with the data in the box, in the firmware and are checked at the official sites | Crooked characters, erasable paint, uneven application, typos, unnecessary or insufficient information, numbers do not match in other places (box, settings) |
Case material. aluminum, slightly cool to the touch, has a characteristic metallic sound | Plastic case |
Deep Black Screen | Gray screen, wide additional frame |
Smooth camera lens, clearly placed, no dirt or dust particles | The presence of dirt inside the body, poor build, crooked performance |
Clear durable stainless steel logo that is recessed into the lid | Image is picking up with fingernail, logo is convex |
Non-removable back cover, the model is monolithic | Back cover can be removed, you can remove the battery |
Slot for one SIM-card, Lightning, up to 7 models. a slot for headphones 3.5 mm | The presence of additional ports and holes, the ability to insert two SIM cards, memory cards, antennas, stylus, etc. |
Valid fingerprint sensor | Sensor does not work, plain button with no function |
Juicy and bright colors, clear picture | Tone predominance, graining, lagging, blurring |
Clear fonts, literate translation of the interface standard iOS | Typos, crooked multifaceted fonts, crooked icons, no rounded corners on function blocks, lags or jerks |
In the icon of the “Watch” application, the hands move | In fakes, the picture is static |
on other ways to verify
Detailed video instruction on how to check the originality of the device by external signs (this applies to models from 4 to 10) is given below.
It should also be noted that the novelty of 2019 is the ultra-modern 11th generation smartphone. It’s now the most pirate-friendly option for counterfeiters. To avoid running into it, be sure to look at the review of the device before making a purchase. An example of such a review:
Every product with the “apple” logo contains a multi-stage anti-counterfeiting system. Gadgets seem to be even better protected than bank bills. This applies to packaging, execution, documentation, firmware and verification codes. Let’s look at each of the points in more detail.
Check the packaging and the contents of the box
Love for products with a “bitten off apple” in the logo starts the moment you see the box. For this company, there is no detail, and the attention to detail is very thorough. Despite the minimalistic design, each package is made of high quality, pleasant to the touch and quite durable materials.
All items are well attached. The logo is sure to be embossed and has a clear smooth edges.
When you open the box, pay attention to its contents. The package of the gadget is standard:
- an envelope with colored instructions;
- Several stickers with the logo;
- needle to insert the SIM card;
- A white power supply in the original shape (made by Foxlink or Flextronix), the specifications are listed on the case;
- cable with USB port, which says “Designed by Apple”, the quality of the inscription is high, mowing line is neat and very thin, barely visible;
- headphones (made of soft material, streamlined, without jagged edges, pleasant to the touch, has a listening control and a handfree device).
The presence of additional “bonus” devices or accessories suggests that the scammers, counterfeiting this model, overdid it and gave themselves away.
Each of the items is carefully and neatly packaged, placed in the appropriate slots, wrapped in clear film (not duct tape). All the details should be executed pedantically and look perfect.
The appearance of the original iPhone
You should pay special attention to the appearance if the device is sold unsealed or without manufacturer’s packaging at all. This method does not give you a 100% guarantee that the phone is real, but it allows you to reject crude forgeries.
Remember that pirates have learned to copy the appearance, quality of materials and workmanship very convincingly. Nevertheless, behind a beautiful cover may hide cheap components, as well as weak software.
When visually inspecting the appearance, note the following items that should cause alarm and be a reason not to purchase:
- Apple branded phones have one active SIM, if there is an opportunity to place 2 cards, then the device is “gray”;
- the battery must not be removed, such an additional option is a direct hint of deception;
- the difference in geometric dimensions (better to clarify in advance about the model you are going to buy);
- retractable antenna. an element that definitely should not be;
- fuzzy picture and grainy screen are also alarms (iPhones in principle have a high quality picture, if not, then the phone either needs repair, or is made underground);
- poor quality of the logo (it is crooked, in the form of a sticker, easily erased, poorly made);
- only in a copy of a popular device in the kit will go stylus (wand to control the gadget of the big popular brands have only Samsung from the series Note);
- the sensor works with a delay, you need to make an effort, you can’t select items accurately. signs of a fake;
- several touch keys the iPhone has only one main button in the middle of the bottom panel, it is round (in some models it is touch-sensitive). But mostly physical);
- if there are any complaints about the firmware translation, errors and inaccuracies.
Even on real smartphones it says they are designed in California and assembled in China. This is normal, since most of the holding’s assembly plants are located in this country. The official factory simply produces a quality product, unlike fraudulent copies.
Checking iPhone by model
The definition by model is done through the official page. It asks you to find the model and then its number. It shows exactly where this particular device is manufactured. Of the most popular options:
Here you can find links to detailed technical specifications of each model. As well as an indication of all possible color modifications
By serial number
This combination of 11 or 12 digits and letters is another degree of protection that is set by the company and maintained remotely. Since many components of the firmware and communication with servers are supported via the Internet, the serial number allows you to quickly determine
- Whether the phone is new or has been used before;
- Whether there is a right of support from the manufacturer;
- whether the phone is eligible for additional service.
The verification process is as follows:
- First, you need to find the serial number either on the original packaging or in the firmware of the device itself. To do this in the “Settings” select “Basic”, then the line “About this device” and find the line “Serial number”.
- The sequence of characters is entered on the official site from Apple, which is adapted for the languages of the world, including Russia. Address of the page at the link.
- After entering the confirmation code from the picture and pressing the “Continue” button, the system will give you information about the specific gadget.
Available alternatives to check the warranty status (support and service), as well as check the repair status (whether the phone has been repaired before). There are three possible answers:
- activated. the phone is not new or is a fake;
- needs activation. the phone is new and original;
- the code is not found, the serial number is not correct. you have a blatant fake and the phone is “gray”.
A green checkmark next to “Valid date of purchase” is another indicator of authenticity. The remaining items in the issue are responsible for the international warranty (one year from purchase), the right to a free telephone consultation (3 months). After the grace period expires, additional services are available only on a paid basis.
It should also be noted that this method works not only for phones, but for all devices from the manufacturer. So you can check: headphones, tablet, laptop and even charging.
Check IMEI
International Mobile Equipment Identity (International Mobile Equipment Identity or simply IMEI). This unique 15-digit number is given to all mobile devices manufactured by major manufacturers. You can find out IMEI of any device by dialing 06#. A unified system and database can be found at. Here you can check free of charge after registration via email box, if it is confirmed by the system, then iPhone is most likely original.
After entering the characters and confirming the check with the “Check” key the following information about the device will appear
- model;
- make;
- checked IMEI, divided into functional meaning blocks (TAC. origin, serial number, check digit);
- date of manufacture;
- main technical specifications.
How to Check if iPhone is REAL!
Even more information appears by pressing the “Read more” button (this option is available in the paid version). There is even a three-dimensional model of how the device should look like. This is especially important for comparing the correct location of buttons and functional elements.
Checking iPhone on the Apple Store
The iOS operating system itself is also a degree of protection against tampering. The fact that its code is closed and third-party developers can not change it or install it on other devices. So often fakes just immigrate to the original “apple” firmware. This can be calculated by the nature of the work of the official Apple Store. it works only with the originals.
When a request for the Apple Store opens on a fake device, it redirects to Google Play. This is a sure sign that the phone is fake. In some cases no store will open at all. This is especially common when the entire operating system is written by “lefty” artists.
Connect to iTunes on your computer
Another reliable way to check through the official phone-to-computer program is iTunes. Each time you connect, the program automatically scans the quality of the connected gadget. If the app does not work, it is likely that someone else’s device, not related to Apple, is trying to connect to it.
Checking iPhone in the Apple Store
They can fake the appearance of the iPhone, both the device itself and the software, adding all the items and tabs as in the original version of iOS, but such devices will always have one big disadvantage. the inability to connect to the Apple Store. In a fake one, you’ll never be able to log in through your Apple ID and log into the service to download any app. That’s why we advise you to try to authorize your account and try to download an application or game from the Apple Store right after the above described methods in order to be sure. If it boots, it means that you have a 100% original Apple device!
Visual inspection
An important point that can not be skipped in any case. Here’s an in-depth look at what to look for.
Damage
Chips and scratches. quite normal. They can appear even with extremely careful use with a glass and case. These cosmetic flaws do not affect the operation of the gadget.
Another thing when it comes to obvious dents and deformed body. It is likely that the iPhone has been dropped from a height or subjected to some kind of pressure. And even bad if the device “backlashes”, that is, creaks at a slight pressure. This can affect the operation of components, so in this case it is better to refrain from buying and look for another option!
Opened or not?
The only way to “get” into the guts of the device is to unscrew the two star-shaped bolts located near the Lightning charging jack and the speakers. Screws must be screwed firmly and not fall out, can not be damaged, and the body near them can not be scratched. If there is even one sign of tampering, then the repair has taken place, and most likely somewhere in an underground shop. a quality service center works with professional equipment.
Whether the parts are original?
- Examine the screen of the turned on gadget by turning the brightness to maximum. That it is Chinese, it shows obvious yellowing and pixels, visible to the naked eye. Also, a non-original screen will differ in color from the surrounding frames;
- If there is a working fingerprint or FaceID, check them by tying your biometrics. All this should work correctly. if the check does not work immediately, or does not work at all, it is possible that the part has been changed;
- Look at the rim of the charging port, keys, SIM tray. Their color should match the color of the case;
- The transition between the junction of the screen and the case should be smooth, with no scratches. If there are bumps and chips, the module display has probably been changed;
- Gaps near the screen indicate that the battery is outdated and will need to be replaced soon.
How to check the functionality of the iPhone
Be sure to make a test call
A test call to a friend will allow you to evaluate the quality of the connection, the speed of the network connection, hearing on both sides, and to check for other possible problems with the microphone and speakers. It’s best to use your SIM card when calling to avoid all sorts of shenanigans from the seller.
Wireless Interests
We recommend testing your iPhone for its ability to connect to different wireless networks:
- go online and check the quality of connection, connect to Wi-Fi network (give it away from another smartphone),
- Check the accuracy of GPS, compass (Google Maps to help),
- Try to connect to a wireless headset or speaker via Bluetooth.
There should not be any interruptions at any point.
Mechanical buttons and silent mode switch
All buttons (Home, Power, volume keys, silent mode switch) should work clearly but softly. This means that they should work on the first press and without delays, but without false presses. this is a sign of dirt or mechanical damage. The keys should produce a characteristic sound when pressed (this may vary depending on the model of iPhone).
Fingerprint sensor (fingerprint scanner) should work clearly and respond to a clean, dry finger without hesitation or error. Face ID on latest models should unlock immediately.
Display
To check the integrity and intactness of the display, you should use two backgrounds: black and white (you can download them as pictures on the Internet). At maximum brightness test both backgrounds to make sure there are no dead pixels (on the white screen) and uniform brightness (on the black screen).
There should be no glowing lights. their presence indicates that the screen is not in the best condition and may soon require repair. The functionality of the touchscreen is detected experimentally: check it over the entire area, for example by drawing patterns in “Notes”, so you can immediately identify problem areas.
Speakers and microphones
The iPhone has two speakers: the auditory one (located at the top front of the front panel and is intended for talking) and the polyphonic one (located at the bottom and is responsible for playing back multimedia or telephone conversations on speakerphone). There are three microphones: at the bottom (to the left of the charging connector), at the top (in the same place as the hearing speaker) and on the back (next to the camera).
For the test it is best to use the app “Dictaphone”: you can say something on the recording, moving the smartphone on different sides and at a distance from your mouth, and then listen to the recording. The sound should be without croaks, whistles and other noise and distortions. You can also call someone and check the quality of hearing (including from the interlocutor).
Cameras
Camera is tested in two steps: visually and technically. First inspect the lenses for scratches, cracks, chips, scuffs, blisters, and other damage. If the glass is sticking out over the bezel or something under it is displaced to the side, it is a sign of breakage or a replacement. Then it is enough to take a couple of photos, video and assess the quality, test both cameras, rear and front (selfies). We recommend checking the flash light, because it is directly connected to the camera.
Sensors
iPhones have several sensors and ways to test them:
- Screen. Flaws can be noticed during normal use: poor response to taps, unnatural color display, image freezes, flickering.
- Touch ID. Add your fingerprint and unlock the phone a few times with it.
- Face ID (in recent models). Ask the former owner to unlock the iPhone using this feature.
- Proximity sensor. If it works well, the sound source should change from a polyphonic speaker to an auditory speaker when you bring a smartphone with a voice recording playing to your ear.
- Light sensor. If you change the illumination of the place near the front camera where the sensor is located (for example, cover it with your finger) when the automatic brightness mode is on, then the brightness should also change automatically.
- Accelerometer. Estimates the position of the device in space, so you can check if it’s working properly with the “Auto-rotate screen” function.
- Gyroscope. Open the application “COMPASS” and make sure its readings are correct, the reaction is not to move the device.
Charging and headphone jack
Using your own, or included cable, connect the iPhone to a power source (power bank or computer) and make sure the process is going properly (lightning indicator light comes on). It is worth considering that an unscrupulous vendor may offer his cable, and then say that the problem is in it, not the phone.
Be sure to check the headphone jack (even if it’s the same as the charging jack on the newer 8, X, 11, 12 models). the sound should be clear and without interfering noises. If the plug is loose or difficult to insert, there is a problem with the plug.
Battery
A normal iPhone battery charges about 1-2% in 5 minutes. If it charges too fast or too slow then it is defective. The same can be said if the charging percentage decreased too quickly during the test. the battery will be expensive to replace, this is a great bargaining chip.
Moisture sensor
Despite the fact that the model from iPhone 7 is positioned as water-resistant (water resistance rating IP67), damage from moisture is considered a non-warranty case (ie the probability of occurrence through negligence is high). Moisture provokes the process of oxidation, that is, the phone can fail not immediately after getting wet, but after some time (even after a couple of months).
To check for “drowning”, iPhones have a special moisture sensor (may be located in the SIM card slot or inside the charging jack or headphone jack. depending on the model). It should be white: when moisture gets inside the case, it turns red. Even if it seems slightly pinkish, you should refuse to buy it.
Vibration
The iPhone has a soft vibration. If it seems too loud and harsh (rattling), there is something wrong with the device. You should also turn on the vibration function wherever possible in the sound settings, and check that it works. If even the vibration response did not work only in one case, the problem will soon spread to the operability of the function as a whole.
SNDeepInfo
Apple’s innovative technology and professional marketing have made the iPhone the most popular phone in the world, which is in high demand among consumers. This inevitably provoked the production of counterfeit iPhones and created all sorts of obstacles to verify the authenticity of the iPhone. If you doubt the authenticity of your phone, use these instructions to check the authenticity of your iPhone.
- Measure the iPhone screen. The screen of a genuine iPhone is 3.5 inches (8.9 cm) diagonally. Check the screen size with a ruler. If it appears larger or smaller than 3.5 inches, the phone may be a copy.
- Check for a SIM card slot. Apple makes iPhones with only one SIM card. Find a SIM card slot. The first generation iPhone, iPhone 3G and 3GS have it on top, but the iPhone 4 and 4S have a slot on the side of the phone and it is designed for a Micro-SIM card, which is almost half the size of a standard. Also, if you have to remove the back of the phone to find the SIM card, the phone is definitely not a genuine iPhone.
- Find iPhone serial number. Apple makes every iPhone with a serial number, which identifies the model name and key features. The iPhone serial number is an 11- to 12-digit number. It is found on the bottom of the original packaging, on the phone on the SIM card tray or in the phone menu. Press “Settings” on the iPhone home screen, then select “Basic”. “About This Device”. Scroll down the screen, find and write down the serial number. Verify that all three numbers match.
- Verify the authenticity of your iPhone using SNDeepInfo service. The check results will show you the main characteristics of the phone, if they do not match your device, or the serial number is not recognized, then it is very likely that the iPhone can be considered a fake.
Optional: Apple makes iPhones with touch screens that only respond to the touch of your fingers. In the case of some fakes, a stylus is used to control items on the phone screen. Apple does not produce iPhones with stylus, and the screen of a real iPhone will not respond to the touch of a plastic or metal stylus.
Apple unveiled the new iPhone 13 and other devices
The iPhone 13 smartphone is not much different from previous models. The new smartphone will run on the A15 Bionic processor and, according to developers, its speed is 50% faster than the iPhone 12. Another technological advantage. high level of protection against moisture. IP68, which is according to the classification. Immersion to a depth of more than 1 meter, for more than 30 minutes.
Roskomnadzor will block in Russia
will be blocked in Russia in a month. According to Roskomnadzor, the social network has refused to remove banned information for years.
Apple will remove key information from serial numbers
Very soon it will be impossible to find out where your iPhone is from the serial number. Apple is switching to randomly generated numbers from 2021.
Mir cards can be linked to Apple Pay
In April, cardholders will be able to link their cards to Apple Pay mobile wallet, reports RBC. Even employees of budget organizations, who receive their wages on the “Mir” payment card, will be able to attach the card.
SNDeepInfo
In test mode launched bot in Telegram for checking IMEI and serial numbers.
Now you can easily send any IMEI or SN to Telegram and find out more information about your smartphone or other device.
Apple unveiled the iPhone 13
The iPhone 13 smartphone is not much different from previous models. The new smartphone will run on the A15 Bionic processor, and, according to developers, its speed is 50% faster than the iPhone 12. Another technological advantage. high level of protection against moisture. IP68, and it’s by the classifier. Immersion to a depth of more than 1 meter, for more than 30 minutes.
LG Electronics is leaving the market with
LG Electronics is leaving the smartphone market. Yonhap agency reports this, citing a company report, which says the decision is due to the low profitability of business and the highly competitive market.
ALL!
will be blocked in Russia in a month. According to Roskomnadzor, the social network has refused to remove banned information for years.
Apple will remove from serial numbers
Very soon it will be impossible to determine where the iPhone is made by its serial number. From 2021 Apple will switch to randomly generated numbers.
Latest site news
Updating the verification system
After checking the IMEI or serial number, the user could receive a direct link to the result of the check in the “Share the result of the check” block. Users often posted these links in ads when selling a smartphone to give the buyer information (serial number, IMEI and other data) and confirm that the device is not on the list of stolen.
iPhone Lock Operator
SNDeepInfo IMEI and serial number verification service provides the possibility of additional iPhone verification via IMEI.
To order the test you need to provide the IMEI number and e-mail to which the response will be sent. In most cases you get an answer within a minute. You can get IMEI number by dialing #06# on your phone keypad. Ordering process is very simple and straightforward, it does not require registration and takes only about a minute of your time.
New SNDeepInfo certificates
UPD: In 2021 we updated the algorithm of issuing of IMEI and serial numbers check results. Now check results contain information, where part of serial number is hidden. Read here why we did it
SNDeepInfo IMEI and serial number verification service announces update of the verification certificates system.
With this update certificates became available for all IMEI and serial numbers supported by the service. At the moment it contains IMEI of all cell phones and serial numbers of all Apple, Samsung, LG, Motorola and HTC devices.
Where Samsung phone is made?
Small but very useful update of Samsung serial number decoder.
For most models of cell phones, the serial number can be used to find out not only the date of manufacture, but also in what country, at what plant the phone was manufactured.
IMEI and serial number of LG
LG IMEI and serial numbers support added.
By checking the LG serial number you can find out the country and date of manufacture.
By IMEI number except country and production date also defines phone model name, color and country or organization that sells it.
Remember that each time you check IMEI or serial number, your device is also checked in the international database of stolen or lost devices. LoSToleN. If it is in the list of stolen items, you will get a warning in the results of the check.
How to check your Apple device
When you buy an Apple product online you need to make sure that you’re buying it as a brand-new, official product with an official warranty.
We recommend our customers to check the serial number on the manufacturer’s official website before purchasing the device. This procedure allows you to make sure that you are buying a new and original device. And also after activating your device. To see the warranty expiration date.
Serial number S/N or IMEI (for devices that work with SIM cards). is individual for each device. You can find it on the original packaging, on the case of the device, as well as opening a special section on the device in the menu: Settings Basic About this device. For cell-enabled devices. the serial number can also be found on the SIM card tray. Serial number should be the same in all cases for the same device.
On models: iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus. You can find the S/N serial number in Settings, and the IMEI number on the SIM card tray.
On models: iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone SE, iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5. You can find the S/N serial number in Settings, and the IMEI/MEID number (MEID is the first 14 digits of an IMEI number) on the back.
The S/N serial number for iPad Pro, iPad, and iPod touch devices can be found on the back. On cell-enabled iPad models you can also find the IMEI number in Settings.
Airpods headphones and charging case have the same serial number. The serial number for the Airpods is on the inside of the cover. If the Airpods headphones are connected to your iOS device, you can also view the serial number in Settings Basic About This Airpods Device.