What Kind of Phone Do I Have?

Not sure which phone you have? It's more common than you might think. With so many iterations of different phone lineups—the recent iPhone 17 series features five different models, for example—it can be a bit confusing to remember, or figure out, which one you have.

But it's definitely something you’ll want to know if you're selling or trading in your device, troubleshooting an issue, or even just buying a new phone case. The good news is that identifying your smartphone is simpler than you might think, even if you're not particularly tech-savvy. 

In this article, we'll walk you through how to find your smartphone's make, model, and other important details like its operating system and IMEI number.

Check Your Phone Settings

Your phone's model number can help you identify exactly which type you have. If your phone is in working condition, you can check its model name and number simply by opening its settings app. The following are instructions on how to do it on both iPhone and Android.

Apple

On an iPhone, start by opening the Settings app and going to General, then About. In this section, you’ll see the Model Name, which tells you the basic name of your device. Just below it is the Model Number, which includes details like storage size and color. There’s also a useful trick: if you tap on the Model Number, it will switch to the base model number that begins with an “A.” This version is the most helpful one to use when checking whether accessories are compatible with your iPhone.

Android

On an Android phone, begin by opening the Settings app and scrolling down to tap on About Phone. This page lists your phone’s model name, model number, and other helpful details all in one place. If you want even more information about your specific device, you can search the model name online to find a full breakdown of its technical specs.

Check Your Wireless Carrier Account

If you can’t determine what device you have by looking at it or checking its operating system, you can also find the information through your mobile carrier. Your carrier’s account dashboard typically lists details about your phone, such as its make, model, and serial number. After signing in to your carrier’s online portal, look for sections related to your account, plan, billing, or devices. Your phone’s information—along with items like your SIM number or IMEI—should appear there. If you’re unable to locate it or can’t sign in, contacting customer support is always an option for assistance.

How to Look Up Your IMEI Number

1. Dial the code
   Open the Phone app and dial *#06#. Your IMEI will appear on the screen.
2. Android settings
   Go to Settings > About phone > Status > IMEI information.
3. iPhone settings
   Go to Settings > General > About, then scroll down to find the IMEI.
4. SIM tray or device body
   Many phones have the IMEI printed on the SIM card tray or sometimes on the back of the device.
5. Phone’s box
   The barcode label on the original packaging usually lists the IMEI.
6. Apple ID (for iPhone)
   Sign in at appleid.apple.com, select your device, and the IMEI will be listed there.
   

What If I Can’t Turn On My Smartphone?

Find a Company Logo

One of the easiest ways to identify your smartphone's manufacturer is to look for a logo. Most companies place their logo on the back of the device, especially if it has an all-screen display.

A number of brands, like Samsung, Nokia, and LG, make it straightforward by spelling out their names. Others, like Apple (with its iconic fruit logo), Google (a capital "G"), and Motorola (a stylized "M" inside a circle), use symbols. 

Look for a Model Number on iPhones 

If you have an Apple smartphone that's an iPhone 8 or later, you can find the model number by opening the SIM tray slot. 

Remove the SIM Card Tray on iPhone:

• Locate the SIM Card Slot: Look for a tray with a small hole on the edge of your iPhone.‍
• Remove the SIM Tray: Grab a SIM card removal tool or a paperclip and push the tip into the hole until the tray pops out.‍
• Find the Model Number: Check the upper side of the opening (the side with the screen) for the iPhone model number, which usually starts with "A.

If your iPhone uses an eSIM instead of a physical SIM card, the number will be tucked away in the Lightning or USB-C cable slot. Keep in mind that frequent use can wear away the tiny digits, making them difficult to read.

You can usually find the model number and other key information for iPhone 7 or older models on the back of the phone.

Look for a Model Number on Google and Android Phones

Some manufacturers will etch the model name or number on the back cover of their devices. If you see a name or a combination of numbers and letters, try searching it online to find more information about your phone.

However, more and more companies are now going for a sleeker look and often opt to hide or leave this information off the body of the phone itself, such as with the latest Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel line.

Look for a Home Button

Apple and other manufacturers moved away from including physical home buttons with their phones around 2017. If your iPhone has one, you can identify it as the budget-friendly iPhone SE or an iPhone 8 or older model. Samsung shifted away from physical home buttons with the Galaxy S8. 

But there’s another way to figure out your phone’s model name and number, even if you don’t have the device in front of you.

‍The Bottom Line

Identifying your smartphone doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Whether your device still powers on or you’re working with a phone that won’t boot, there are several reliable ways to track down its make, model, and key identifiers. From digging through your settings to checking your carrier account, examining physical markings, or looking up your IMEI, each method gives you a clearer picture of what you’re working with. With this information in hand, you’ll be better prepared for everything from troubleshooting and repairs to trade-ins, upgrades, and accessory shopping. Once you know exactly which phone you have, managing it becomes a whole lot simpler.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the IMEI number tell me the model of my phone?

Your phone's IMEI number can provide key information about it, such as its brand, model, release year, and other specs, without the need to see the device in person. 

What phone do I use now?

To find out what model your phone is, head to your settings menu. While the layout can differ depending on your device, you’ll usually find the details under Settings > About Phone. This section often shows information such as the model number. 

How do I check how old my phone is?

To find out how old your phone is, check the sticker on the original box for a manufacturing date or look in your phone’s settings under "About" for clues in the serial number. You can also search the serial number or model online for more details.