iPhones rank among the top-selling smartphones worldwide, offering high-end features and performance that many consumers appreciate. For some, owning an iPhone is also a status symbol. According to Statista, Apple generated about $39 billion in revenue from iPhone sales during the third quarter of 2024. Unfortunately, this massive demand has led to an increase in counterfeit iPhones that look nearly identical to the real thing. If you purchase a second hand mobile from official sources, you’re in the clear. However, buying from unauthorized sellers or seeking repairs at unverified locations can expose you to risks. There have been cases where genuine iPhones were swapped for fake ones during repairs.
Whether you’re purchasing a new iPhone, a used model through Minto, or just want to verify your current device, here are several methods to check if the iPhone is real or fake.
1. Check the Packaging and Accessories
A great first step to verify the authenticity of your iPhone is by examining its packaging and accessories. Apple is known for its attention to detail, even in the packaging. Authentic iPhone boxes are sturdy with sharp, high-quality images and precise text. Accessories such as the charging cable and adapter should be consistent with Apple’s standards in terms of design and quality. If you notice poor-quality printing, loose or flimsy packaging, or accessories that look substandard or mismatched, it’s a warning sign that your iPhone might not be genuine.
2. Verify the Serial Number and IMEI
Every iPhone comes with a unique serial number and International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number, which you can use to confirm its authenticity. To find the serial number on your iPhone, go to Settings > General > About. Once you have the serial number, visit Apple’s “Check Coverage” website and enter the serial number. If your device is real, the site will display the model, warranty details, and other important information.
To verify the IMEI, simply dial *#06# on your iPhone, and a screen will display the number. Make sure the IMEI matches the one on the box and the SIM tray. All three should match exactly, and if they don’t, the device could be a counterfeit.
3. Assess the Build Quality
Authentic iPhones are known for their premium build quality. A real iPhone feels sturdy and solid, with no loose or flimsy parts. Pay attention to the overall design and how the device feels in your hand. The buttons should press firmly with a satisfying click, and the Apple logo on the back should be perfectly aligned and smooth to the touch.
Look closely at the screen, weight, and thickness of the phone. These physical features should match the specifications of the official iPhone model you purchased. Check the SIM tray as well; counterfeit iPhones often have flaws such as rough edges, misaligned logos, or improperly fitted buttons. If anything looks off, it’s worth investigating further.
4. Inspect the Software and Features
The software running on the iPhone is one of the most effective ways to identify a fake device. Genuine iPhones use Apple’s proprietary iOS, and you can easily check if your device is running the latest version. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to verify the software version.
Counterfeit iPhones often run modified versions of Android that mimic iOS but lack the functionality of Apple’s software. If the operating system looks strange or doesn’t offer key Apple features like Siri, your iPhone could be fake. To test, try activating Siri by holding down the power button or saying “Hey Siri.” If Siri doesn’t respond, you may be dealing with a counterfeit.
5. Visit an Apple Service Centre
If you’re still uncertain or notice any suspicious signs, the best way to confirm your iPhone’s authenticity is to take it to an official Apple service center. The experts there can verify whether your device is genuine and address any concerns. This is the most reliable option if you want absolute certainty about your iPhone’s authenticity.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your iPhone is authentic and avoid falling victim to counterfeit devices.