How can you tell if an iPhone is refurbished?

When you buy a used iPhone, one question often comes up: how can you tell if an iPhone is refurbished? In 2025, with the growing popularity of the refurbished market, it's essential to distinguish between a professionally refurbished iPhone and a simply used one . At Lifone , we explain how to easily and effectively check if your iPhone is indeed a refurbished model.

1. What is a refurbished iPhone?

Before understanding how to tell if an iPhone is refurbished , you first need to know what that means.
A refurbished iPhone is a device that has been tested, cleaned, repaired if necessary, and restored to full working order before being resold. Unlike a regular used phone, it is professionally inspected and comes with a warranty.
At Lifone , all our iPhones are 100% genuine Apple parts , without any generic parts, to guarantee the same quality as a new iPhone .

2. Check in the iPhone settings

To find out if an iPhone is refurbished, go to:
Settings → General → Information.
Find the model reference (for example: M…, F…, N… or P… ):

• M : New iPhone

• F : Apple refurbished iPhone

• N : Replacement iPhone (after exchange by customer service)

• P : Customized iPhone (engraving, etc.)

If the reference starts with F , you immediately know that the iPhone is refurbished .

3. Examine the external condition and the battery

Another way to tell if an iPhone is refurbished is to observe the overall condition of the device :

• A professionally refurbished iPhone has a chassis and screen in perfect condition , sometimes replaced with brand new original Apple parts.

• The battery health rating (in Settings → Battery → Battery Health ) is often above 90% because it has been tested or replaced.

At Lifone , all batteries are genuine Apple batteries and tested before each sale.

4. Check the serial number or IMEI

Another reliable method to find out if an iPhone is refurbished : check the serial number or IMEI of the device.
This information allows you to check its history, the remaining warranty, and the country of origin .
If the phone has already been activated, it is probably a refurbished or used iPhone .

5. Buy from a trusted website

Finally, the safest way to know if an iPhone is refurbished is to buy it from a certified professional .
At Lifone , each device undergoes more than 40 technical tests before being put back on sale. All our refurbished iPhones come with a 12-month warranty, an invoice, and are shipped from France.

We provide:

• 100% Genuine Apple Parts

• Minimum 12-month warranty

• Fast shipping in France and Europe

6. Conclusion: Transparency above all

In summary, if you want to be sure of your phone's origin, check:

1. The model code (letter F = refurbished)

2. The physical condition and the battery

3. The serial number

4. The seller and the warranty

At Lifone , transparency is our priority. We clearly indicate aesthetic grades and technical performance so you know exactly what you are buying .