Table of Contents
If you’re having issues with your Apple device or you simply want to identify the model or check the warranty, you may need to find the serial number of your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch. Regardless of your reasons, this article outlines six simple ways to find your device’s serial number, even if you don’t have access to the packaging or if the device won’t turn on.
1. Check the Back of the Device
The original iPhone, all iPads, and iPod Touch have their serial number on the back. However, this method may not work for iPhones 3G or higher.
2. Look in the Settings
On newer iPhones, the serial number can be found by opening the Settings app, selecting General, and then About. The serial number should be the eleventh item on the list.
You can also copy the serial number by tapping and holding on it and selecting Copy.
3. Check iTunes
Connect your device to a Mac or PC and open iTunes. The serial number can be found on the overview page.
4. Check the Packaging
If the above methods don’t work and you have the original packaging, the serial number should be printed above one of the barcodes.
5. Check the SIM Tray
On iPhone 3G, 3GS, 4, and 4S, the serial number can be found on the SIM tray.
6. Check Your Apple ID Account Settings
If you own an iPhone 5 or later and can’t access the serial number via Settings or iTunes, you can try checking your Apple ID account settings instead. Log in to your account at appleid.apple.com, scroll down, and click on the ‘Devices’ tab to find the serial number and other device information.
You can also check for the device serial number on another iOS device logged into the same Apple ID by opening Settings, selecting your name/face at the top, and scrolling down to view all of your devices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a serial number, and why is it important?
A serial number is a unique identifier for your device that helps Apple and other service providers to track and troubleshoot your device. It’s essential for checking the warranty status, requesting support, or filing a police report in case of theft.
Where can I find the serial number on my AirPods?
The serial number of your AirPods is not printed on the earbuds. Instead, you can find it either on the original packaging or by going to Settings, tapping General, and then About on your paired iPhone or iPad.