Why Apple warranty is checked by serial number
Apple keys its coverage records to the serial number, not to the IMEI. The serial identifies every Apple product, including those without a cellular modem such as Macs, most iPads, AirPods and many Apple Watches, so it is the one number that works across the whole range.
That is why IMEI.si checks Find My and the model by IMEI, and warranty by serial. If you start from an IMEI report of an iPhone, one click brings you here.
Where to find the serial number
- iPhone and iPad: Settings › General › About › Serial Number. Touch and hold to copy it.
- Mac: Apple menu › About This Mac. The serial is listed under the chip and memory.
- Apple Watch: Watch app on the paired iPhone › General › About, or on the watch itself in Settings › General › About.
- AirPods: with the case open, Settings › [your AirPods] on the paired iPhone. It is also printed inside the case lid.
- Any device: on the barcode label of the original box, and at account.apple.com › Devices for products signed in to your account.
10 or 12 characters: both formats work
Apple used 12-character serial numbers for years; their characters encode the factory, the production week and the model configuration. Since 2021 new products get randomised 10-character serials that reveal nothing about the device. IMEI.si accepts both. Letters are not case-sensitive and spaces are ignored.
What the warranty check shows
- Repairs and service coverage: active or expired, with the end date and days left.
- AppleCare: whether a plan is active, includes theft and loss, or can still be added.
- Estimated purchase date, which tells you how old the device really is.
- Activation status, replacement status and whether a repair is currently open.
- Product name, model identifier, colour and, for older 12-character serials, storage and configuration.
Reading the result like a pro
Not activated means Apple has never seen the device set up: either sealed stock or a unit that was never used. Replaced means Apple knows the serial only as a service replacement, so ask for the repair paperwork. An estimated purchase date far older than the seller claims is a reason to renegotiate.
In the European Union you also have a separate legal guarantee from the seller, at least two years, which is independent of Apple's own warranty. A used device bought from a private person usually does not carry that seller guarantee.
Frequently asked questions
Can I check Apple warranty with the IMEI?
Apple's coverage records are keyed to the serial number, so IMEI.si checks warranty by serial. Use the IMEI check for the model and Find My status, then enter the serial here.
How long does the Apple warranty check take?
Usually 15 to 40 seconds, because the status is read live from Apple rather than from a stored copy. A serial checked in the last 24 hours opens instantly.
Is an expired warranty a problem?
Not by itself; most used devices are out of warranty. It simply means any repair is paid, which should be reflected in the price.
Does warranty transfer to a new owner?
Apple's limited warranty and AppleCare follow the device, not the person, in most countries.
Last updated 12 October 2026