Step-by-Step Guide: How to Check Your Phone’s Age Before Selling It 

If you plan to sell phones, knowing your device’s age helps you get a fair price and speeds up the sale. When you get to know the age of your phone, you can provide accurate details, set realistic expectations, and avoid surprises when buyers request proof. This guide breaks it down in simple, practical steps you can follow easily with no technical jargon, no confusing menus. You will check receipts, dig into your phone settings, use IMEI or serial number lookups, contact the manufacturer if needed, and try reliable third-party tools. By the end, you will feel confident about how old your phone really is and ready to sell your phone or trade it in with a clear idea of its value. 

Step 1: Check Purchase Receipt or Invoice

Start with paperwork. Look for the original receipt, invoice, order confirmation email or bank statement that shows the purchase date. If you bought the phone as part of a contract, check the contract start date. These documents provide the clearest proof of age and are useful when buyers request verification. If you paid by card, search your email for the store name and the month you bought it. 

Step 2: Check in Phone Settings

Most phones display basic information in the Settings. On iPhone, go to Settings > General > About to see the serial number and software details. On Android, open Settings > About phone to find the serial number, IMEI and software version. The software or model release date will not always match the purchase date, but the serial or IMEI helps with step 3 below. Note the battery health (if shown), it often indicates the real-world age and usage. 

Step 3: Use IMEI or Serial Number Lookup

Find your IMEI by dialling *#06# or from Settings > About. Enter the IMEI or serial number into the manufacturer’s website or a trusted lookup service to find the manufacture date and original model release details. This method is helpful when you have lost the receipt.  

Step 4: Check with Manufacturer Support

If you are unsure after step 3 then contact the phone maker directly. Provide the serial number or IMEI and ask them to confirm the manufacture date and warranty start date. Manufacturers can often tell you if the phone was registered before or after a certain date and whether it is still under any warranty. This is useful if you plan to trade in iPhone models or claim remaining factory support. 

Step 5: Check Using Third-Party Tools

Some reliable third-party websites and apps verify a device’s age, warranty status and activation date. Use reputable services only and read reviews first. These tools can combine IMEI checks, warranty databases and estimated battery health to give a clear picture. Use their reports when you list your device for sale; a well-documented listing makes buyers more likely to pay cash or choose your phone over others. 

Why Phone Age Matters for Resale

Age affects price, software updates and perceived reliability. Older phones may no longer receive software updates and may have lower battery health. Buyers and trade-in services check the age to estimate remaining life and replacement costs. Being honest about age earns trust and often speeds up transactions. It also helps you decide whether to repair the battery or screen before you sell your phone for cash. 

Where to Sell Your Old Phone Safely

Select a trusted buyer who prioritises quality checks and offers fair compensation. Renewd lets you sell your old gadgets and offers a simple trade-in process for IOS and Android devices. Here’s how it works: simply visit their official website and enter your device details to receive an instant price estimate.  

If you’re happy with the quote, Renewd arranges a free home pickup. When their representative arrives, they’ll inspect your device on the spot and confirm the final offer. If you accept, you’ll receive cash immediately. Renewd operates a trade-in platform to get value for your old phone and supports circular-economy practices.  

Renewd accepts devices that are switched on and in working condition. They don’t take counterfeit or jailbroken phones, and for laptops or smartwatches, a charger is required. For phones and tablets, accessories aren’t mandatory.  

Conclusion

Checking your phone’s age is simple and pays off. Start with receipts, check settings, use IMEI lookups, ask the manufacturer and use trusted third-party tools. Be transparent when you list your device; honest listings sell faster and often for more. If you want a dependable trade-in option, consider Renewd for a secure, documented and environmentally friendly sale. When you know the age, you control the process and the price. 

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