An original Apple iPhone model will always have an IMEI number. If there is no IMEI number, it is likely that the model is fake. To check the IMEI number of your device, go to Settings on your smartphone, tap on General and then go to About section. Here, scroll down to see the IMEI number.
In conclusion, buying a used iPhone is a great choice if you're on a tight budget or need to save cash. However, we don't recommend buying an iPhone launched a while back because it may soon lose software support. You should also ensure that your device has a warranty, even if it's limited.
Check for Other Hardware Damage
Every iPhone has normal wear and tear, such as dings or scratches on the phone's sides and back. However, significant scratches on the screen, problems with the Touch ID, Face ID, or 3D Touch sensor, scratches on the camera lens, or other hardware damage can be big problems.
Refurbished vs second-hand: What's the difference? If it's not already clear, a refurbished iPhone is tested and repaired so the handset works like new (or as close to new as possible). A second-hand iPhone, on the other hand, is simply sold as is, which means the device may not last as long.
Most iPhones last between 4 and 7 years, however this is not guaranteed. If your iPhone is more than a few years old, it's likely starting to become outdated and clunky, and it might be time to think about upgrading to a newer model for a better user experience.
M – Brand new device, meaning the device was purchased new. F – Refurbished device, meaning the device has been through refurbishing process. N – Replacement device, meaning the originally bought device was replaced by this model likely due to a service request.
A refurbished iPhone is a used device that's for sale again after a check. This means it's not a new device, so it can show (some) signs of wear.
Depending upon the length of time between when the iPhone was made and when it is activated, your battery capacity may show as slightly less than 100%. A normal battery is designed to retain up to 80% of its original capacity at 500 complete charge cycles when operating under normal conditions.
Your device's model, color, capacity, and expected expiration of the warranty should match what is declared in the box. Another way of checking the serial number is to verify if it matches Apple's database. You can go to the Apple website and then enter your Apple product serial number to authenticate your device.
"S" used to denote a slight upgrade (iPhone 3GS, 4S, 5S, 6S & 6S Plus, XS & XS Max), but it has since been dropped; iPhone XS and XS Max were the last models to feature the "S" (iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max instead of iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max).
" M ": retail unit. " N ": replacement unit. " P ": personalized (engraved) unit.
As it ages, the battery slows—so a full charge won't last as long. Most batteries are good for at least 2 to 3 years, often longer, but how do you know when to replace your iPhone battery? At Asurion, we help millions of people maximize their tech.
However when it comes to iPhones, you can expect between three to five years (maybe more) with proper care.
Don't Stress Yourself to Buy a New iPhone
If your iPhone has an excellent camera, receives iOS updates, and has good battery life, upgrading might just be a waste of money. Also, look at the features and see if you're okay with the ones in your current model.
Only after 2 to 3 years will you start seeing a tangible drop in system performance. As it is, even a brand new iPhone will slow down considerably after around 6 years. Its performance lifespan depends a lot on how long do you use it in a day and what kind of apps do you use in it.
We suggest buying a used and refurbished iPhone 12 because it's sleek, fast, and still cutting edge. With the iPhone 12, you'll be ready for the future. It comes equipped with 5G connectivity, a feature that will only add to this phone's value over time as more cities get 5G coverage.