4 Ways to Check If Your iPhone Is Original and Authentic

With the rise in popularity of iPhones, counterfeit devices have become an increasing concern in the tech world. Counterfeit iPhones or replicas are often sold at a fraction of the price of an original, which might tempt some buyers. To protect yourself, you should know how to differentiate an original iPhone from a counterfeit one. Follow this guide to learn more.

The Prevalence of Counterfeit iPhones

While the allure of a cheap iPhone may seem tempting, it’s crucial to recognise the potential risks associated with purchasing a fake device. A counterfeit iPhone can lead to a host of problems that can impact your user experience and personal data security.

1. Poor Performance and Reliability

As counterfeit iPhones are made with subpar materials and components, they may often lead to slow processing speeds, unresponsive touchscreens, and frequent crashes.

2. Security Risks and Vulnerabilities

Original iPhones regularly receive timely software updates and security patches from Apple as protection. In contrast, counterfeit ones lack these critical features, leaving them vulnerable to malware, hacking attempts, and data breaches. As a result, your personal and financial data could be at significant risk.

3. Lack of Access to Apple Services and Support

Without official support from Apple, counterfeit iPhones are not eligible for repair services, quality assistance, or warranty coverage. These devices may also not be compatible with the latest iOS updates, thereby restricting your access to new features and software improvements.

4. Inferior Build Quality and Durability

Counterfeit iPhones are manufactured with cheaper parts that don’t meet Apple’s rigorous quality standards. This often results in poor battery life, compromised screen resolution, and reduced overall durability.

Why Is It Important to Check the Authenticity of Your iPhone?

Before delving into practical ways to ensure your iPhone is genuine, it is important to understand why you should check the authenticity. An original iPhone guarantees you the performance, security, and support that Apple is renowned for. This means you can safeguard your investment and avoid the pitfalls related to fake products.

1. Performance

Original iPhone are designed to provide optimal performance with high-quality components. Conversely, counterfeits often present poor performance, hardware failure, and inconsistent functionality.

2. Value for Money

Purchasing a counterfeit iPhone might save money initially. However, the long-term costs of repairs and potential security issues can far outweigh the savings.

3. Warranty

Unlike Original iPhone that come with Apple’s warranty and support services, counterfeit devices are not covered under Apple’s warranty policies.

Identifying an Authentic iPhone

Given the risks associated with using a counterfeit iPhone, knowing how to identify an original iPhone helps you avoid potential issues. Here are some key steps to help you determine:

1. Verify the Serial Number

How to know if an iPhone is original? The first step is verifying the serial number of your device. Apple assigns a unique serial number to each original iPhone, which acts as a distinct identifier for the device. This number can be used to track the phone’s model, warranty status, and other important details. 

Here’s how to check your iPhone’s serial number:

• Go to Settings > General > About.
• Scroll down to find the Serial Number section.
• Copy the serial number and head over to Apple’s official Check Coverage page.
• Enter the serial number to check the authenticity of your iPhone. 
• You will be able to check the warranty status and whether the device is registered with Apple.

If your iPhone’s serial number doesn’t match Apple’s records, it may indicate a counterfeit iPhone.

2. Verify the IMEI Number

Another way to identify the legitimacy of your iPhone is by verifying the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number. The IMEI is a unique 15-digit code assigned to each mobile device, including iPhones, that serves as an identifier for the device’s network and ownership. 

Follow the steps below to perform IMEI Verification for original iPhones:

• Go to Settings > General > About.
• Scroll down and find the IMEI number.

Alternatively, you can dial *#06# to display the IMEI number on your screen.

Once you have the IMEI number, you can do any of the following to confirm the authenticity of your device:

• Visit a reliable IMEI-checking website. 
• Check with your mobile carrier.
• Confirm with Apple support.

3. Check for Pre-installed Apps

Original iPhones’ pre-installed apps, such as Safari, Maps, and the App Store, cannot be removed or altered. Does your iPhone not have these standard apps? Then, it may be a counterfeit Apple device. 

To check for pre-installed apps:

• Go to your home screen.
• Check for apps like Safari, Messages, Calendar, App Store, and Photos. 
• You should also check the functionality of these apps.

Counterfeit iPhones often come with fake apps that don’t work as seamlessly as the original ones. So, if you notice any unusual or unfamiliar app that is not typical of the iPhone ecosystem, it suggests that the device may not be genuine.

4. Test the Operating System (OS)

Testing the legitimacy of the iPhone OS also allows you to check if you’re owning an original iPhone. iPhones run Apple’s proprietary iOS, which is different from Android or other operating systems used in counterfeit phones. The smooth performance, design, and user interface are distinct features of iOS, and fake devices often fail to replicate this experience.

There are a few ways to check the iPhone OS:

(i) Navigation

The iOS interface should be fluid and responsive. If the device feels sluggish or exhibits unresponsive touchscreen behaviour, it may be a counterfeit.

(ii) Settings

Go to Settings > General > Software Update. Original iPhones will provide regular software updates to keep your device protected and up to date.

Mobile Repair Expertise: LYK Mobile Services

With fake iPhones flooding the market, it’s more important than ever to ensure that your device is original. Follow the steps outlined above, including authenticating the iPhone serial number, to enjoy peace of mind.

If you’ve checked your iPhone’s authenticity and are experiencing issues, reach out to LYK Mobile for expert iPhone repair in Singapore. Our skilled technicians can help diagnose and fix a variety of iPhone problems to keep your device operating like new.

Our iPhone repair service is fast, with an average repair time of just 25 minutes for iPhones and 1 hour for iPads. We also offer a 100-day warranty on all repairs and spare parts, so you can receive top-quality service and peace of mind. Finding it difficult to visit a physical store for repair assistance? Not a big deal! Our trusted specialists will come to you to save you time and effort.

Contact us for a hassle-free mobile repair experience.