Computer Tricks and Secrets

Short answer: the old trick of decoding an iPhone's manufacturing date from its serial number no longer works, because Apple switched to randomized serial numbers years ago. The reliable way now is to check the warranty and coverage start date on Apple's official coverage site, which tells you effectively how old the device is. Here is how, and what it matters for. Why the old serial-decoding method is dead Older iPhones used serial numbers where specific digits encoded the factory, year and production week. Apple moved to randomized serial numbers, so those digits no longer mean anything. Any guide telling you to read the 3rd digit for the year is outdated and will give you nonsense. The reliable method: check coverage by serial number Find your serial number: Settings > General > About , or on the SIM tray / original box. Go to Apple's official coverage checker at checkcoverage.apple.com . Enter the serial number. It shows your warranty and AppleCare stat...