Easy ways to check how old your phone is

In today’s fast-paced world of smartphone technology, it can be hard to know how much life your device has left. Regular software updates demonstrably extend the usability of modern smartphones by improving performance and addressing security vulnerabilities. However, knowing how old your phone is still matters when deciding if it still meets your needs.

ALSO READ: How to update an old Android phone to the latest version

Is it now an old model on its way out, or still reliable for years to come? Knowing how old your phone is helps you make smart decisions, like deciding when to upgrade, managing battery life for older models, or checking if it’s safe for important tasks. So here are simple and easy ways to check and find out how old your phone is.

Simple ways to check how old your phone

Here are some easy methods to determine your phone’s age:

1. Check the box

One of the easiest and quickest ways to determine your phone’s age is by checking the manufacturing date on the box. Locate your phone’s box, flip it over, and look for a white sticker with barcodes and numbers. This sticker usually includes the phone’s manufacturing date.

2. Explore your phone’s settings

If you no longer have the box with you, your phone’s settings can also offer some clues. Simply:

i. Open the Settings app on your phone.

ii. Go to the About Phone section (or its equivalent depending on your phone’s brand).

iii. Look for terms like “manufacturing date,” “serial number,” or “hardware version.”

iv. The manufacturing date might be explicit, or it might be encoded within the serial number. For Android smartphone users, manufacturer customisations can affect where to find the manufacturing date in Settings. Explore menus like “Version Information” or “Hardware Versions” within the About Phone section.

3. Figuring out the serial number for iPhones

i. Apple sometimes encodes manufacturing information in the serial number on iPhones and iPads. To find the serial number of your iPhone, go to Settings, then General and tap About. 

ii. Look for the serial number. You will need to scroll down to find the IMEI/MEID and ICCID.

iii. Once you have the serial number with you, to find the original purchase date simply enter the serial number on Apple’s Check Your Service and Support Coverage page.

If none of these methods tell your phone’s age, consider searching online for your specific phone model and “manufacturing date” to find resources that might help. However, be cautious of third-party apps or websites that claim to determine your phone’s age by asking your IMEI number. These might not be reliable and could be a security risk, potentially stealing your personal information or compromising your device.

How to extend a smartphone’s life

If you want to keep your smartphone running smoothly and in top condition for years to come, here are some ways you can extend your smartphone’s life:

1. Keep it cool

Avoid extreme temperatures. Don’t leave your phone in direct sunlight or a hot car, and consider removing the case while charging to prevent heat build-up.

2. Keep it dry

Water damage is a major threat to electronic devices. Avoid getting your phone wet and invest in a waterproof case if you need extra protection.

3. Use a protective case 

Use a sturdy case and screen protector to mitigate damage from accidental drops and impacts.

4. Update regularly

Software updates often come with performance improvements and bug fixes. Make sure to install and update your phone as soon as an update becomes available.

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5. Use a genuine charger

Cheap or incompatible chargers can damage your battery. Therefore, it is always recommended to use genuine chargers or one from a reputed company.

6. Don’t overcharge 

Extreme temperatures and fast charging can wear down your battery over time. Consider using optimized charging settings if available on your phone.

And that’s how you can not only protect your phone but also help extend its overall life.