Open Settings › General › About and record Model Name, Model Number and software version. Keep serial, IMEI and account identifiers private. The model number shown there begins with a letter such as M or N, and tapping it switches to the A-number, for example A2650, which Apple support pages use.
What this covers
- Current iPhone and iPad devices
What it does not cover
Try in this order
0 of 7 completedCapture the exact state
ReversibleCapture only non-sensitive model and software fields.
Separate the likely fault domains
ReversibleSeparate retail part number, A-number and device name.
Correct only the proven, accessible condition
ReversibleUse hardware family plus software version.
Open About in Settings
ReversibleGo to Settings, General, About and read the Model Name and the Model Number. The Model Number first shows a part number that begins with a letter; tap it to see the A-number, which Apple support pages use.
Note the software version alongside the hardware model
ReversibleRead the software version on the same screen. The same hardware can behave differently on different versions, so support guidance usually needs both.
Use the printed A-number only if the device will not start
ReversibleIf the device is dead, the A-number is printed on the back of older iPhones and on the back of iPads, and on the SIM tray of some models. Read it there without opening the device.
Verify once before going farther
ReversibleConfirm the physical generation matches support guidance.
Apple
How to read the model number in Settings and on the device
Settings shows a part number first; tap it to see the model number.
- In Settings
- Open Settings, tap General, tap About. To the right of Model Number you see the part number; tap the part number to reveal the model number.
- iPhone 7 or earlier, some iPads, iPod touch
- Check the back of the device.
- iPhone 8 or later with a SIM tray
- Remove the SIM tray and look in the slot in bright light: the model number is on the upper side, the side with the display.
- iPhone without a SIM tray, and certain iPads
- Look at the USB-C or Lightning connector in bright light: the number is on the upper side of the connector, the side with the display.
Stop boundary
When this stops being a self-service repair
- !Keep the serial number, IMEI and Apple Account details private, and do not photograph the settings screen with those fields visible when posting online.
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Exact questions
Common questions about “Where to find an iPhone or iPad model number”
Where can I find the iPhone model number if the screen is broken?+
Older iPhones print the A-number on the back. For newer models, use the iPhone's box, its serial number on Apple's website or a computer that the device syncs with.
Should I share the serial number or IMEI when asking for help?+
No. Share the model name and the software version, which are usually enough, and keep the serial number and IMEI private.
What is the difference between the model name and the A-number?+
The model name is the marketing name such as the size or year. The A-number identifies the exact hardware variant, including the region and the radios, and matters for repairs and accessories.
Why does Settings show a part number instead of a model number?+
Apple says these are two different identifiers: the entry beside Model Number is a part number, and you tap it to show the model number.
How do I read it on a dead iPhone?+
Apple says that on an iPhone 8 or later with a SIM tray you can remove the tray and look in the slot for the model number.
Is the model number the same as the model name?+
No. The name might read iPhone 15 while the model number is a code beginning with an A followed by digits, and the number can differ by region. Support and trade-in services usually ask for the number.
What if the phone will not turn on?+
Check the original box, your Apple account's device list on another device, or the SIM tray and back glass engraving on older models. Your carrier or receipt can also confirm which model you bought.