Contents
- How to check the originality of an iPhone when purchasing
- The main ways to distinguish an iPhone from a fake
- Checking the serial number on the Apple website
- External signs and factory applications
- IMEI check
- iCloud check
- Check by model number
- Checking for binding to operators
MOSCOW, September 19. The iPhone is one of the most popular smartphones in the world. Counterfeits are often found on the market under the guise of an original mobile device. What you should pay attention to when buying new and used models of this phone, what signs can be used to distinguish a genuine iPhone, how to check the serial number on the Apple website and compare the unique identification number, expert advice – in the material “”.
How to check the originality of an iPhone when purchasing
Each new Apple presentation is an event that does not go unnoticed by millions of users around the world.
“It is important to approach the purchase of an iPhone responsibly and carefully study each offer. Choosing a reliable seller and documenting the authenticity of the device is the key to a successful transaction. The right approach and vigilance will help avoid unpleasant surprises,” says Vladislav Sakharov, commercial director of the online sales platform Brandly.< br />
When it comes to iPhone counterfeits, many people remember copies, often of rough quality, lacking original features. According to the expert, the first cheap fakes even had an antenna integrated. Apparently, for better communication quality. However, in the modern world, imitations have moved to a new level. Instead of low-quality ones, you can now find technologically reassembled models that may look like a real iPhone, but have significant differences in hardware and functionality.
Basic ways to distinguish an iPhone from a fake
One of the first signs of a fake is the price is too low.
“If the offer looks tempting, perhaps they are trying to deceive the buyer. Counterfeits and low-quality devices are often sold at a significantly low cost “We need to analyze the market and determine the average and minimum price of the device from official resellers,” the expert advises.
Where you buy your iPhone is also very important. Trusted retail chains and reputable online platforms provide more guarantees for product quality.
Checking the serial number on the Apple website
You can check the device serial number on the company's official website Apple. To do this, go to the support page and enter the serial number, which is indicated in the settings or on the box. If the iPhone is genuine and registered in the Apple database, the site will provide all the information about it, including the date of purchase.
< h3 id="1897334581-4">External signs and factory applications
When performing a visual inspection, it is important to pay attention to the external characteristics and details of the iPhone – the quality of assembly and materials, the placement of buttons and ports, as well as the presence of logos and inscriptions. Original iPhones are supplied in high-quality boxes with original charging cables.
– If you are buying a new device, pay attention to the seals – unscrupulous sellers have already learned to glue them to create the appearance of originality, but if you can see from under the seals coarse adhesive traces – we recommend that you refrain from such a purchase,” explains Vladislav Sakharov.
The original iPhone runs on the iOS operating system, which has a certain set of settings and functions. If there are any differences in the interface, this may be a sign of a fake.
Screen
According to Evgeny Buyanov, CEO, co-founder of 4brain.ru, teacher at the Faculty of Economics of Moscow State University. M.V. Lomonosov, the original iPhones use high-quality Retina screens. Counterfeits often have low resolution or poor image quality. During the test, you should evaluate the integrity of the screen, uniformity of backlighting, performance of the touchscreen, etc.
Buttons and sensors
Feelings from pressing buttons original and fake may differ. All buttons and keys on a genuine device should be pressed smoothly, without any extraneous sounds. Also, Touch ID or Face ID only work on real iPhones.
Microphone and camera
The original iPhone's camera usually looks sharp and professional, while counterfeits have low-quality recording devices. To check the quality of the lens, speakers and microphone, you can shoot a video. The application should launch without delays or problems with focusing, and the sound should not have interference or distortion.
Checking IMEI
IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique identification number for each mobile device. It can be checked on various online services to make sure that the device has not been stolen or blocked.
“You need to make sure that the IMEI number on the box matches the number “hardwired” into the device. This is easy to do. – just dial *#06# and the iPhone will give out its IMEI. Also, it must match the number on the SIM card tray. Any discrepancy may be a sign of a fake,” explains Vladislav Sakharov.
< h3 id="1897334581-6">iCloud check
If the device is genuine, then the owner can log into the iCloud account without any problems. This is important for data protection, transfer and backup of information on the device. Counterfeits often have problems with this. All smartphones with iOS 7 and higher installed are automatically linked to an Apple ID, which allows you to block the smartphone if lost or stolen, as well as determine its location.
Verification by model number
You can find your iPhone model number in settings and compare it with the data on the Apple website. To get it you need to open settings > basic > about this device. It looks something like MGJS3AA/A.The first letter of the model number indicates the type of Apple device:
· M– a new 100% original device.
· F – the device has been restored.
· N – a replaced device, the device was changed at the request of the service center.< br />
· P – personal device with engraving.
Checking for binding to operators
Some iPhones are sold tied to a specific operator. iPhone pairing verification may vary depending on your country and carrier. It is recommended that you contact your carrier or contact Apple Support for further assistance and information on verifying device locking.
– If the seller claims that the phone is unlocked to all carriers but it is not, you may have a counterfeit phone or a device obtained illegally, explains Evgeniy Buyanov.
