Published 15 October 2026 · iWant Gadgets · 6-minute read
A pre-owned iPhone can be a sensible purchase, but the model name and clean-looking case do not tell the whole story. Before money changes hands, check that the phone can become yours, understand its repair and battery information, and test the functions you will use every day.
This checklist follows Apple’s current guidance for inspecting a pre-owned iPhone. If you are comparing options in Cape Town, ask to inspect the exact device rather than relying only on a description or photo.
1. Do not accept an Activation Locked iPhone
Turn on the phone. If it shows iPhone Locked to Owner, do not buy it. If it opens to a passcode screen or Home Screen, ask the seller to erase it while you are together. Begin setup and confirm that the previous owner’s Apple Account is not requested. Apple says the device is ready for a new owner when it reaches the Hello screen and setup can continue without the previous owner’s credentials.
Never accept a promise that the lock will be removed later. Read Apple’s Activation Lock guidance.
2. Confirm the exact model, storage and software
Go to Settings → General → About. Confirm the model name and storage capacity match what was advertised. Note the iOS version and serial number, but do not post the full serial number publicly. If the phone is still signed into the seller’s account, the seller should handle the reset and account removal themselves.
3. Read Parts and Service History
On iOS 15.2 or later, Settings → General → About may show a Parts and Service History section when supported parts have been replaced. The information shown depends on the iPhone model. Labels can include Genuine, Used, Unknown, Unverified or Finish Repair.
A replacement part is not automatically a reason to reject a phone, but it is information you should understand before agreeing on condition and value. Ask what was repaired, when, and whether any supporting invoice or repair warranty applies. Apple explains the labels and model coverage in its Parts and Service History guide.
4. Check battery information, not just today’s charge
Open Settings → Battery → Battery Health (the wording can vary by iOS version and model). Review the maximum-capacity or health information and any service or verification messages. A phone showing 100% charge can still have an ageing battery; charge level and battery health are different.
Battery information is one factor, not a complete prediction of remaining life. Apple notes that battery-health information may be inaccurate when a battery cannot be verified. See Apple’s genuine battery and battery-history guidance.
5. Check carrier lock if network flexibility matters
In Settings → General → About, look for Carrier Lock. Apple says No SIM restrictions means the iPhone is unlocked. If another message appears, clarify the position before buying—Apple cannot unlock a carrier-locked iPhone; only the carrier can do that. This matters especially if you intend to change networks or use the phone while travelling.
Follow Apple’s carrier-lock instructions for the current steps.
6. Test the functions you will rely on
With the seller’s permission, check the display across different brightness levels, buttons, cameras, speakers, microphones and charging port. Connect to Wi-Fi, make a short call if possible, and test Face ID or Touch ID after the seller has removed their data and you can safely set up the device. Look closely for cracks, bent areas, loose buttons or moisture signs around the charging connector.
Apple’s own pre-owned iPhone inspection guide includes checks for physical condition, display, buttons, cameras, speakers, microphone and Wi-Fi.
7. Get the sale details in writing
Before paying, confirm exactly what is included: the phone, cable or charger, box and any other accessories. Record the device model, storage, condition and agreed price on the invoice or receipt. Ask about the seller’s return process and the warranty that applies to that specific item; do not assume every pre-owned phone has identical cover.
For iWant Gadgets listings, models, condition and availability vary. Ask us to confirm the exact item, price, included accessories and item-specific warranty before purchase. You can explore pre-owned enquiries, or if you are selling your current device, read about our trade-in assessment.
Research note: prepared with AI assistance using the linked Apple Support documentation. Sources checked 15 October 2026. This is general buying guidance, not a guarantee of a device’s condition, remaining battery life or future performance. iWant Gadgets is not represented here as an Apple Authorised Service Provider.
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