Check If Your Phone Is Refurbished or Recycled

How to Check If Your Phone Is Refurbished or Recycled.

Buying a smartphone can be a big investment, so it’s important to know exactly what you’re getting. 

Some phones sold as “new” may actually be refurbished, reconditioned, or even recycled units. 

Refurbished phones aren’t necessarily bad - they can work just like new ones - but you should always know the truth before purchasing.

Here’s how to check whether your phone is refurbished or recycled.

1. Check the Box and Packaging.

New phones always come in sealed, original boxes with brand-new accessories.

Refurbished or recycled phones might come in plain or generic packaging.

Look for any signs of the box being opened or resealed - this can indicate it’s not brand new.

2. Inspect the IMEI or Serial Number.

The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) or serial number is the most reliable way to verify a phone’s authenticity.

Find your phone’s IMEI/Serial Number:

Android: Go to Settings - About Phone - Status - IMEI Information.

iPhone: Go to Settings - General - About - Serial Number.

Check the IMEI online:

Visit websites like IMEI.info or the official manufacturer’s site (e.g., Apple, Samsung) to see details about your device.

If the report says “refurbished,” “replacement device,” or “recycled,” then your phone is not brand new.

3. Check the Model Number.

The model number can reveal a lot about your phone’s status.

For iPhone:

Go to Settings - General - About - Model Number

The first letter of the model number tells you what kind of device it is:

M = New device

F = Refurbished

N = Replacement unit

P = Personalized (engraved)

For Android:

On Samsung phones, open the dialer and type *#12580*369# or *#0*#

- Look for any mention of “Refurbished” or “Reconditioned.”

You can also search your model code online to see if it matches a refurbished model.

4. Use Diagnostic Codes.

Many smartphones have hidden service codes to reveal internal information:

Samsung: *#7353# or *#0*#

Xiaomi: *#06# for IMEI or use the Mi Verification site

iPhone: No special code, but Apple’s website can confirm warranty and activation status

These codes can help confirm if the phone’s hardware is original or replaced.

5. Check the Warranty and Activation Date.

You can check when your phone was first activated and if it’s still under official warranty:

Apple: checkcoverage.apple.com

Samsung: samsung.com/support/warranty

If the activation date is earlier than your purchase date, that’s a clear sign your phone was previously used or refurbished.

6. Look for Physical Signs.

Refurbished or recycled phones might show:

Small scratches or dents on the body

Replaced screen or back panel

Slight difference in color or texture

Non-original accessories or missing seals

Even if the device looks perfect, a refurbished one may feel slightly different when handled closely.

Final Thoughts

Refurbished phones can be a great deal — they’re often cheaper and environmentally friendly. 

However, always verify the device’s authenticity before buying to make sure you’re paying the right price for what you get.

By checking the IMEI number, model code, warranty, and packaging, you can easily find out whether your phone is new, refurbished, or recycled.