Buying an iPhone — whether new, refurbished, or replacement — can be confusing if you don’t know how to check its status. Apple devices are known for durability and resale value, but it matters if the phone is truly brand new, a certified refurbished unit, or a replacement device. These distinctions impact warranty, support, and long-term performance.

This guide helps you identify whether an iPhone is genuinely new, refurbished, or a replacement, and shows you how to verify it right on the device.

Why It Matters

Knowing your iPhone’s origin — new vs refurbished vs replacement — isn’t just curiosity. It affects:

  • Warranty duration

  • Resale value

  • Expected lifespan

  • Return and support options

A refurbished iPhone might function like new, but it may have minor wear or different expectations around warranty. A replacement iPhone provided by Apple under service is usually covered differently than a fresh retail purchase.

How to Check iPhone Status

Apple embeds clear identifiers you can see directly on the device.

1. Check the Model Number

Go to Settings > General > About and find the Model Number.

This sequence reveals the manufacturing history:

  • Starts with M — A new device purchased from Apple or authorized seller

  • Starts with F — A refurbished unit from Apple’s certified refurbishing process

  • Starts with N — A replacement device issued by Apple support

This is the most reliable way to tell at a glance.

What Each Identifier Means

New (M…)

If the model number begins with M, the iPhone came from retail inventory and has never been used, serviced, or replaced before.

Expect:

  • Full standard warranty from date of first activation

  • Original packaging and accessories

Refurbished (F…)

If it starts with F, the iPhone was refurbished by Apple or an authorized refurbisher. These devices are tested, repaired, and certified to meet quality standards.

Refurbished devices may have:

  • A shorter warranty period from the date of purchase

  • Updated parts and accessories

  • Little to no visible wear

Replacement (N…)

Models beginning with N indicate the device was issued as a replacement under warranty or AppleCare service.

The device may be:

  • Brand new or refurbished internally

  • Covered under the remaining original warranty or AppleCare

  • Labeled differently because it is tied to a service event

Apple replacement devices are typically fully functional and covered, but knowing the classification helps with future support.

Additional Ways to Confirm

Check the Serial Number

The serial number contains information about manufacture date and region. In Settings > General > About, you can also verify the serial number status with Apple Support for warranty and service history.

Look for Packaging Clues

For new devices, Apple’s packaging is crisp and uniform. Refurbished boxes may differ slightly in labeling or include specific “Apple Certified Refurbished” markings.

Battery Cycle Count

A used or refurbished device may show higher battery cycle counts than expected for a brand-new phone. You can check this through Settings > Battery if you need another data point.

What to Do When You Discover It’s Not New

If you expected a new iPhone but find it’s refurbished or a replacement, you can:

  • Verify the purchase receipt to ensure the seller provided accurate info

  • Check warranty status with Apple Support using the serial number

  • Ask the seller for clarification or return options

  • Decide based on condition and value — refurbished devices often offer solid performance at lower cost

Knowing what you have empowers you to manage updates, trade-ins, or resale confidently.