If you buy a used iPhone, it's good to know its history. When it was first sold, was the device new from Apple or was it a refurbished device? Below we will see an easy way to find out. See how.
Open the Settings app and follow the path: General - About.
Once you open About, a list of important information about your iPhone will appear name of the device, the version software and model number.
Pay a little attention to the model number, because it will reveal the origin of the iPhone.
If the model number starts with M, the device was purchased new by Apple.
If the model number starts with F, the device was refurbished by Apple or a partner company (telephone service provider).
If the model number starts with P, the device was made as a personalized iPhone with engraving.
If the model number starts with Ν, Apple provided the device as a replacement for an iPhone that was not working properly.
If you find that your phone has been refurbished, it is not necessarily a bad thing. THE Apple Lossless Audio CODEC (ALAC), certifies the Renovated productthrough a very strict process that makes them almost new. They thoroughly clean each device, replace any broken parts and if necessary, change the battery and outer casing.
Overall, Apple Certified Refurbished products They look and work like new iPhones, but for legal reasons, Apple cannot sell them as new. Apple usually offers these refurbished products at a significant discount.
Refurbished devices from third parties
If your phone was refurbished by an independent company and not authorized by Apple, the model number will not have changed. It should be noted here that few independent companies have strict Apple standards, so it is best to avoid refurbished devices from third parties as much as possible.