M, F, N, 3A: The Secret Code That Reveals If Your iPhone Is New, Refurbished or a Demo

New Delhi: Imagine you see an amazing offer on social media. The price is below market, the phone is shining, and the seller also seems trustworthy. You give the money without thinking much. A few days later, it turns out that your iPhone was actually a demo unit. Not new, not first-hand—just a showpiece. This story is not just yours; it is happening with many people these days.

How is fraud happening?

One such case was reported by a reader from Jaipur, who bought an iPhone after watching a reel and later found out that it was a demo model. The big thing is that even today people believe what influencers say without checking it. Whereas the reality is that the line of review and promotion on social media has become blurred.

There are many ways to buy an iPhone in India—authorized stores, e-commerce, refurbished markets, platforms like OLX, or a second-hand deal from someone you know. In such a situation, it becomes important to identify the authenticity of the phone.

Is the iPhone original or refurbished? recognize like this

A small code in the settings of the iPhone tells you the real story of the phone.

How to check:

• Open Settings
• Go to General
• Tap About
• See Model Number (Example: MG2V4HN/A)

Now just understand its first letter:

First letter meaning

The M phone is brand new, built straight to retail

• F                 Refurbished Unit
• N                 Replacement model
• P                 Custom/Engraved Unit
• 3A               Demo unit

Keep in mind: Buying a replacement phone as if it were new can sometimes be a waste, especially when the price is the same as a new model.

Checklist when buying a refurbished iPhone

1. The seller is reliable: Be sure to check reviews, the return policy, and the warranty. Authorized refurbishers are a better option.

2. Don't compromise on warranty: Choose only a device with a warranty of at least 6 months.

3. The phone must be unlocked: Getting a locked iPhone means trouble later on.

4. Check your physical condition yourself: Don't trust the video. The screen, the edges, the camera lens, the ports—check everything.

5. Battery Health: If it's less than 80%, negotiate or walk away from the deal.

Apart from this, it is mandatory to check Wi-Fi, microphone, SIM slot, touchscreen, and iOS version. Try to get parts that are OEM, not third party.

Don't spend money just seeing offers

The iPhone is expensive, and buying one often feels like an investment. Therefore, do not spend money just after seeing the offer. Spend two minutes looking at the model number so that you don't have to regret it months later.