“iPhone 15” isn’t specific enough for downloading an IPSW file, ordering a replacement screen, or buying a case, because Apple sells multiple models with that name, in multiple regional variants. This guide shows how to pin down the exact model, starting with the fastest method.
Method 1: Settings (Most Reliable)
If the device turns on, this takes ten seconds:
- Open Settings > General > About
- Read Model Name (e.g., “iPhone 17 Pro Max”)
- Tap the Model Number field. It toggles from the part number (e.g., MXXXXX/A) to the technical model number (e.g., A2846)
That A-number is what matters for IPSW downloads: firmware files are model-specific, and the wrong file simply fails to install.
Decoding the part number prefix (the one shown before you tap):
- M: standard retail unit
- N: warranty replacement unit
- F: Apple-certified refurbished
- P: personalized (engraved) unit ordered from Apple
These prefixes identify how the device was sold, not the hardware. An F-unit and an M-unit of the same model are identical inside.
The About screen also shows the serial number (useful for Apple’s Check Coverage page, which verifies the exact model and warranty status) and the current iOS version.
Method 2: Identify by Physical Features
For a device that won’t boot, work through these in order; each narrows the field considerably.
1. Port Type
- USB-C: iPhone 15 series or newer (2023+)
- Lightning: iPhone 14 series and older
2. Front Design
- Dynamic Island (pill cutout): iPhone 14 Pro/Pro Max, then all models from iPhone 15 onward
- Notch: iPhone X through iPhone 14/14 Plus
- Bezels top and bottom: iPhone SE (all generations), iPhone 8 and earlier
3. Side Buttons
- Camera Control (right side, below power): iPhone 16 series and newer
- Action Button (left side, no mute switch): iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max, then all models from iPhone 16 onward
- Traditional mute switch: everything before those models
4. Rear Cameras
- Three cameras: Pro/Pro Max models (and iPhone 17 Pro’s horizontal camera “plateau”)
- Two cameras: standard Plus/numbered models
- One camera: iPhone Air, iPhone SE, older models
5. Screen Size
| Size | Models |
|---|---|
| 6.9” | iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone 16 Pro Max |
| 6.7” | iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 14 Plus |
| 6.5” | iPhone 17 Air (alternative reference) |
| 6.3” | iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17, iPhone 16 Pro |
| 6.1” | iPhone 16, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 |
| 5.4” | iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 12 mini |
| 4.7” | iPhone SE (2nd/3rd gen), iPhone 8/7/6s |
| 4.0” | iPhone SE (1st gen), iPhone 5s and earlier |
The Recent Generations at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone 15 (2023) | iPhone 16 (2024) | iPhone 17 (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Port | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C |
| Dynamic Island | All models | All models | All models |
| Camera Control | None | All models | All models |
| Action Button | Pro only | All models | All models |
| ProMotion 120Hz | Pro only | Pro only | All models |
| Pro frame | Titanium | Titanium | Aluminum (Air keeps titanium) |
| Pro base storage | 128 GB | 128 GB | 256 GB |
Spotting the iPhone 17 Air specifically: it’s ~5.6 mm thick (versus ~7.9 mm for the standard iPhone 17), has a single centered rear camera, a 6.5” display, and a titanium frame. No other iPhone looks like it.
Method 3: SIM Tray (Regional Quirk Worth Knowing)
- iPhone 13 and older (all regions): model number printed on the SIM tray
- iPhone 14 and newer (most regions): SIM tray may still carry the model number
- US models, iPhone 14 and newer: no SIM tray at all, eSIM only. A left edge without a tray hole means it’s a US model
Method 4: Back of Device
Many models have the model name printed on the back (e.g., “iPhone 17 Pro”). On older devices the text may be worn off or hidden by a case. The camera layout plus port type still gets you to the exact model using the tables above.
Verified Model Numbers (A####)
Regional variants of the same phone carry different A-numbers. For reference, iPhone 15 models:
- iPhone 15: A2846, A3089, A3090, A3092
- iPhone 15 Plus: A2847, A3093, A3094, A3096
- iPhone 15 Pro: A2848, A3101, A3102, A3104
- iPhone 15 Pro Max: A2849, A3105, A3106, A3108
For iPhone 16 and 17 series, check the number on your actual device, since regional cellular variants differ. Apple’s Check Coverage lookup by serial number gives a definitive answer.
What Each Identification Is For
- IPSW downloads: always match the A-number. Firmware is model- and region-specific; the wrong file fails at install.
- Cases and accessories: never assume fit between generations. The iPhone 17’s 6.3” screen doesn’t match the iPhone 16’s 6.1”, and the Air’s thickness fits nothing else. USB-C chargers are cross-compatible, but check wattage.
- Repairs: give technicians the exact model, not the marketing name. Components differ between the standard and Pro models of the same size.
If You’re Still Unsure
- Screenshot Settings > General > About and keep it; it’s the record that matters for warranty and insurance claims
- Check the original packaging or purchase receipt; the model number is printed on the box label
- Compare port type + buttons + cameras against the tables above
- Confirm with Apple’s Check Coverage page using the serial number
The Settings method settles it for any working device; the physical tables cover the rest.