December 25, 2024, 1:38 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
A secret letter reveals a lot about the value of an iPhone, in addition to its condition. It’s crucial to check this before making a private purchase. TECHBOOK explains where to find the hidden letter on your iPhone.
Classified ads, Amazon, or the mobile store with used devices–Apple products are available everywhere. Experts estimate the average depreciation of an iPhone after the first year to be around 17 percent. Samsung’s devices are about 33 percent. At first glance, the model types are hard to distinguish. When you buy a device, you probably assume it was once purchased new. But that’s not always the case. TECHBOOK shows you how to find out.
Overview
High Demand for Used Devices
In general, used devices are becoming increasingly popular. The main reasons are lower costs and better environmental compatibility. The demand for Apple products is particularly high. The U.S. manufacturer is known for providing long-term updates for its devices, ensuring they function reliably even after years. Consequently, the offerings on used markets are diverse.
At first glance, only the external condition, such as the display or frame, can be assessed. Other indicators include storage or remaining battery life. However, few people know that a look at the model number reveals whether an iPhone or other Apple products like a MacBook or iPad are new, refurbished, or replacement devices.
iPhone Letter Reveals Condition
To do this, users need to go to their device’s settings. In the menu, select “General,” then tap on “About.” According to The Apple Wiki, the model number of your iPhone is located in the fourth position under the device name. The first letter is crucial and provides information about the condition and value of the device.
Apple itself has not publicly confirmed the meaning of the letters to TECHBOOK. A request in this regard has so far gone unanswered.
Also interesting: Trading in an old iPhone at Apple–is it worth it?
“M” – Retail Device
M devices come officially from an authorized Apple dealer and have neither been exchanged nor renewed. These are iPhones that were originally purchased new. These devices are the most popular.
“F” – Refurbished Device
F devices come from the original store but were returned and refurbished by the manufacturer. Their value is definitely lower than comparable retail devices.
“N” – Replacement Device
N devices can be either a retail or refurbished version. They are officially replaced by Apple. Their value is also lower than retail devices.
Note: TECHBOOK assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of your device’s model number. Only Apple itself can clearly determine the actual device status.
Retail devices have the highest value, refurbished devices rank behind them. Replacement devices are priced in between.
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Play It Safe
Even when buying a used device, users should be able to know the model number in advance to avoid potential fraud or overpriced deals. Additionally, there is the option to return a mislabelled device within the cancellation period. However, this process can be problematic in private sales without a purchase contract. TECHBOOK advises obtaining all device information before purchase to ensure you pay only the appropriate device value. This is slightly lower for replacement and refurbished iPhones compared to retail devices.