iPhones are globally famous smartphones due to their quick speed, unique features, and user-friendly interface. iPhones are available in various models and types. These different types and models are specially designed to meet the requirements of different regions, including different languages, frequencies, geographical locations, and carrier networks. As a result, iPhones are available in two kinds of versions, the domestic version and the international version.
The domestic version of the iPhone is suitable only for a specific region, while the international version is suitable for global usage. But, if you are not aware of this fact, you might end up buying a domestic version iPhone, which would not work in different countries. In this blog, you will learn how to check if your iPhone is the international version, and what methods can help you use the domestic version iPhone in different countries.
Video Tutorial:
Method 1: Check iPhone Model Number
Apple provides a different set of model numbers for different phones. You can use these model numbers to determine what kind of iPhone you have. On the iPhone, navigate to ‘Settings’ and click on ‘General.’ Choose the ‘About’ option, and you will see the ‘Model’ number. You can Google search the model number to determine the type of iPhone.
Here are the model numbers for iPhone models:
- iPhone 5: A1428 , A1429, and A1442
- iPhone 5C: A1532, A1456, A1507, A1529, A1516, and A1526
- iPhone 5S: A1433, A1453, A1457, A1530, A1533, and A1518
- iPhone 6 & 6 Plus: A1549, A1586, A1589, A1522, A1524, and A1593
- iPhone 6S & 6S Plus: A1633, A1688, A1700, A1634, A1687, and A1699
- iPhone SE: A1662, A1723, and A1724
- iPhone 7 & 7 Plus: A1660, A1778, A1779, A1780, A1661, A1785, and A1786
- iPhone 8 & 8 Plus: A1863, A1905, A1906, A1864, A1897, and A1898
- iPhone X: A1865, A1901, and A1902
Method 2: Check Carrier Settings
In many cases, the iPhone carrier plays a vital role in determining the suitability of the iPhone for global usage. Some carriers do not allow customers to use their network on a different continent, which means that the domestic version iPhone would not work on another continent. You can navigate to the ‘Settings’ option, click on the ‘Carrier’ option, and see if your carrier supports global usage. If your carrier supports global usage, then your iPhone is an international version.
Method 3: Check SIM Card Slot
The most noticeable difference between domestic and international version iPhones is the SIM card slot. International version iPhones are designed with a unique SIM card slot that can take various SIM card sizes, including GSM and CDMA SIMs. In contrast, domestic versions may not have a SIM card slot or are restricted to particular networks. If your iPhone has a SIM card slot, you can use a local SIM card in different countries easily.
Why Can’t I Use My Domestic Version iPhone Internationally?
There might be several reasons why you can’t use your domestic version iPhone internationally, such as incompatibility with different frequencies, language, and carrier networks. Every country has different network frequencies, which means that some domestic versions of the iPhone may not support networks in other countries. Additionally, domestic versions of the iPhone may not be compatible with different languages, which can make the phone unusable in other countries.
Moreover, domestic iPhone versions are mostly carrier locked, which means that they are confined to a specific network within a specific region. The carrier may not allow you to use the phone outside its designated region, or it may charge additional fees for using your phone outside the country.
Suggestions
If you have a domestic version of the iPhone, and you want to use it overseas, you may need to contact your carrier to unlock the device. Contacting an Apple Support Representative for advice is another solution. In many cases, Apple can provide you with recommendations on handling the phone while you are overseas. Apple’s representatives may guide you in updating settings, changing frequencies, and language, among other things.
Lastly, using a global SIM card can be helpful if you frequently travel abroad. Global SIM cards are designed to work anywhere in the world, and they usually offer better rates than most domestic carriers. Global SIM cards can be bought at airports or in different shops in different countries.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use a domestic version iPhone overseas?
A1: Yes, you can use a domestic version iPhone overseas, but you might need to make some adjustments to the settings or contact your carrier to unlock the phone.
Q2: What is the difference between a domestic version iPhone and an international version iPhone?
A2: The difference between a domestic version iPhone and an international version iPhone is their compatibility with networks in different regions, languages, and carrier networks. Domestic versions may be restricted to specific frequencies and network carriers.
Q3: Will my domestic version iPhone work on a different network overseas?
A3: The answer depends on your country of origin, phone model, and network carrier. Some domestic versions of the iPhone may work overseas, while others may not. Check the carrier settings, SIM card slot, and the phone model number before traveling abroad.
Q4: Can I change the carrier network of my domestic version iPhone while overseas?
A4: Changing the carrier network of the domestic version iPhone while overseas can be challenging. In most cases, you would have to contact your carrier to unlock the device, and then purchase a new SIM card for the new carrier network.
Q5: What is a global SIM card?
A5: A global SIM card is a SIM card that is designed to work anywhere in the world. These SIM cards offer affordable rates, and they can be used in different countries without roaming charges. Global SIM cards can be bought in shops or airports in different countries.
