Look at the underside of the laptop, near the regulatory markings.
In this guide, we’ll cover where to find your serial number, how to decode it, and—most importantly—how to check its validity using Apple’s official tools.
Once you have the number, use Apple's official tools to verify it: Find the serial number of your Apple product check serial number of apple product
If the device will not power on, the serial number must be located physically:
This error message can imply three scenarios: Look at the underside of the laptop, near
authenticity before buying it second-hand. Apple uses unique alphanumeric strings for every product, but the method for finding them varies by device. 1. Finding the Number on the Device For most hardware, the serial number is physically printed on the casing: MacBooks: Look on the underside of the laptop, near the regulatory markings. iPads and iPods: Printed on the back of the device near the bottom. AirPods: Located on the underside of the charging case lid. Apple Watch: Typically found on the back of the watch case or inside the band slot. 2. Finding the Number via Software If the device is powered on and the screen is functional, the software route is often the easiest: iOS/iPadOS: Go to
Many devices have the number engraved on the back or bottom. Apple uses unique alphanumeric strings for every product,
Check the original packaging (barcode) or the original receipt . You can also sign in to account.apple.com and look under the Devices section. 2. Check Coverage and Authenticity
On older models (iPhone 4s and earlier) or some newer ones, it may be engraved on the back or the SIM tray .
Go to appleid.apple.com and sign in. Under the "Devices" section, you will see every Apple product currently associated with your account, along with their serial numbers.