How to Check if an iPhone is Original or Not
With the release of new iPhone models each year and the subsequent influx of fake or knockoff devices, learning how to check if your iPhone is original is more critical than ever. An original iPhone guarantees the device’s authenticity, performance, and overall user experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into various methods to help you ascertain whether your iPhone is genuine or a clever imitation.
Physical Inspection
Check the Design and Build Quality
An original iPhone exhibits a sleek and refined design, with a seamless metal frame and high-quality materials. The buttons, ports, and speaker grilles should be precisely aligned and feel sturdy. Knockoffs often have misaligned components, cheap plastic materials, and loose buttons.
Examine the IMEI and Serial Number
The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) and serial number are unique identifiers for each iPhone. You can find them engraved on the back of the device, in the SIM tray, or by dialing *#06#. Compare these numbers with the ones listed on the official Apple website or iTunes to verify authenticity.
Verify the Settings Menu
The Settings menu in an original iPhone provides a wealth of information about the device. Navigate to "General" > "About" to see details such as the model number, storage capacity, and software version. Knockoffs may have inconsistent or incorrect information displayed in these settings.
Software Checks
Update to the Latest iOS Version
Apple regularly releases iOS updates to fix bugs, improve performance, and add new features. If your iPhone cannot be updated to the latest iOS version, it’s likely not an original device. Knockoffs often run outdated or modified versions of iOS that may lack security patches and essential features.
Check for Apple ID and App Store Features
An original iPhone requires an Apple ID to access the App Store, iTunes, and other Apple services. If you cannot sign in to your Apple ID or access the App Store, your iPhone may be fake. Additionally, certain Apple-exclusive features, such as iMessage and FaceTime, may not be available on knockoffs.
Hardware Tests
Camera Performance
The camera on an original iPhone is one of its most distinguishing features. Take a few photos and videos to assess the image quality. Original iPhones capture sharp and detailed images with accurate colors and low noise levels. Knockoffs often have inferior cameras that produce blurry, grainy, or distorted images.
Battery Life and Charging
Original iPhones have long battery life and support fast charging with Apple’s official chargers. Test the battery life by using your iPhone for various activities. If the battery drains quickly or does not charge properly, your iPhone may not be original.
Table: Comparison of Original and Knockoff iPhones
| Feature | Original iPhone | Knockoff iPhone |
|---|---|---|
| Design and Build Quality | High-quality materials, seamless construction | Cheap materials, misaligned components |
| IMEI and Serial Number | Unique, verifiable numbers | Mismatched or non-existent numbers |
| Settings Menu | Accurate device information, updated iOS | Inconsistent information, outdated iOS |
| Apple ID and App Store | Apple ID required, full access to Apple services | No Apple ID, limited or no access to Apple services |
| Camera Performance | Sharp, detailed images, accurate colors | Blurry, grainy, or distorted images |
| Battery Life and Charging | Long battery life, fast charging | Short battery life, slow or non-existent charging |
Conclusion
Determining whether your iPhone is original or not is crucial for ensuring a genuine Apple experience. By carefully examining the physical design, verifying software features, and performing hardware tests, you can identify knockoffs and protect yourself from potential fraud. An original iPhone not only guarantees authenticity but also provides peace of mind, knowing that you’re using a device that meets Apple’s high standards of quality and performance.
FAQ about how to check if iPhone is original or not
1. How can I check if my iPhone is original by IMEI?
- Check the IMEI number by dialling *#06# on your iPhone.
- Visit the official Apple website (https://checkcoverage.apple.com/) and enter the IMEI number to check the warranty status and authenticity.
2. How can I check if my iPhone is original by serial number?
- Locate the serial number on the back of your iPhone or in Settings > General > About.
- Visit the official Apple website (https://checkcoverage.apple.com/) and enter the serial number to check the warranty status and authenticity.
3. How do I check if the iPhone is unlocked?
- Insert a SIM card from a different carrier into your iPhone. If the device can connect to the network, it is unlocked.
- Contact your current carrier and inquire about the unlock status of your iPhone.
4. How can I check if my iPhone’s camera is original?
- Open the Camera app and take a photo in high-resolution mode.
- Transfer the photo to a computer and view its EXIF data (using software like ExifTool). The data should show the original iPhone model and camera specifications.
5. How can I check if my iPhone’s battery is original?
- Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health.
- Check the "Maximum Capacity" percentage. An original battery should have a capacity of 80% or higher.
6. How can I check if my iPhone’s screen is original?
- Inspect the screen for any colour distortions, dead pixels, or uneven brightness.
- Original iPhone screens have excellent colour accuracy and uniform brightness.
7. How can I check if my iPhone’s Face ID is original?
- Attempt to unlock your iPhone using Face ID. If the process is seamless and there are no glitches, Face ID is likely original.
- Contact an Apple Authorized Service Provider for further diagnostics if you experience any issues.
8. How can I check if my iPhone’s speakers are original?
- Play music or videos on your iPhone at various volumes. Ensure that the sound is balanced, clear, and free of any crackling or distortion.
- Original iPhone speakers provide excellent audio quality.
9. How can I check if my iPhone’s operating system is original?
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Check the version number and ensure that it is an official iOS release.
- Avoid installing custom ROMs or jailbreaking your iPhone, as this may void the warranty and compromise security.
10. What should I do if I suspect my iPhone is not original?
- Contact an Apple Authorized Service Provider or Apple Support for assistance.
- They will inspect your device and provide the necessary support or repairs.
