Given the increase of fake iPhones, it’s critical to understand how to confirm the device’s legitimacy. Here are some methods to determine whether your iPhone is authentic or not.
One of the best-selling devices in the world is the iPhone. In addition to having the best features and specs, Apple’s flagship smartphones are also a status symbol for certain people. In the third quarter of 2024, Apple was able to make almost 39 billion dollars from the sale of its iPhones, according to Statista.com. But the increased demand for iPhones has also resulted in a spike in fake versions that are almost exact replicas of the original. You shouldn’t be concerned if you buy an iPhone from a reputable retailers like the Apple Store. However, there have been cases when individuals have reported receiving phoney iPhones or having their real devices replaced with fake ones while they were being repaired if they purchase it from unapproved third-party dealers or send it to unreliable marketplaces for repair.
With the upcoming seasonal sales in both online and physical stores, this issue is probably going to get worse. Here are various methods to determine whether your existing iPhone is authentic or a fake, regardless of whether you’re purchasing a new one, a refurbished one, or just want to make sure.
Check the packaging and accessories
Examining the accessories and packaging is one of the first ways to confirm the legitimacy of your iPhone. Even in its packaging, Apple is renowned for its painstaking attention to detail. Real iPhone packaging is robust, has crisp lettering and has excellent photos. The cable and other accessories should be in line with Apple’s standards. A warning sign could include loose packaging, mismatched accessories, or poor printing quality.
Verify the serial number and IMEI
The iPhone has a unique International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number and serial number, much like any other smartphone. Navigate to Settings > General > About to locate the serial number. Next, enter the serial number on Apple’s Check Coverage page. The website will show information about your iPhone model, warranty status, and other relevant details if your handset is genuine. On your iPhone, enter *#06# to view the IMEI. Next, contrast the displayed number with the IMEI found on the SIM tray and the box. Every number ought to line up.
Check the build quality of the iPhone
The high-end and robust construction of Apple iPhones is well-known. A real iPhone feels sturdy, well-made, and free of gaps and loose parts when you handle it. In addition to the Apple logo on the rear being precisely aligned and smooth to the touch, the buttons should click forcefully. Take careful note of your iPhone’s physical attributes and general design. The dimensions, weight, thickness, and display quality of the screen should all be in line with those of the official model. To check the slot, take out the SIM tray. You may readily identify counterfeit iPhones by looking closely for obvious build defects like loose buttons, misaligned logos, or rough edges. You might even think about doing a closer look with a magnifying glass.
Check the software and features
One of the most significant ways to detect a fake iPhone is through its software. Genuine iPhones run on Apple’s proprietary iOS. You can check this by going to Settings > General > Software Update to see if your device is running the latest version of iOS. Unlike the fake iPhones often seen on social media, which may run on Android and are made to look like iOS, a genuine iPhone will always run on iOS. Also, try using Siri by holding the power button or saying “Hey Siri.” If Siri doesn’t activate, your iPhone may be counterfeit.
Visit the Apple Service Centre
The best method to be absolutely confident about the authenticity of your iPhone is to get it checked by professionals at an official Apple service centre if you see any warning signs.