Apple Serial Lookup
Identify any Apple device from its serial number by combining local decoding with web lookups.
Workflow
1. Decode locally (old 11-12 char format)
Run the bundled decoder script:
python3 scripts/decode_serial.py <SERIAL>
This extracts:
- Manufacturing location and date
- Model codes and configuration identifiers
- Model identifier (e.g., MacBookPro10,1, iPhone9,1) when known
- Basic specs (RAM, storage options) from built-in database
The script includes a database of common model codes compiled from repair sources and EveryMac.
2. Web lookup for complete specs and unknown models
For full specifications or unknown model codes, perform web lookup:
- Primary:
web_search for "Apple serial number specs" or " site:everymac.com" - Fallback:
web_fetch from https://everymac.com/ultimate-mac-lookup/?search_keywords=
If EveryMac is blocked by captcha, try:
https://appleserialnumberinfo.com/Desktop/index.php?sn= (may need browser)- Search for the model code (e.g., "Apple DKQ model identifier") to match to a specific device
For new-format (post-2021) serials, web search won't help — direct the user to check Apple's coverage page themselves:
- Apple Check Coverage:
https://checkcoverage.apple.com/ (requires captcha, but returns device model + warranty status) - This is the only reliable source for randomized 10-character serials
- Apple switched to randomized serials starting in late 2020/early 2021 (beginning with iPhone 12 and M1 Macs), fully rolled out across all products by 2021
3. Present results
Combine local decode + web data into a comprehensive summary:
Enhanced Output (from local decode):
- Device: Model name and identifier (e.g., MacBook Pro 15" Mid-2012, MacBookPro10,1)
- Serial: Full serial number
- Manufactured: Location, week, year (e.g., ~Week 38, Sep 2012, Quanta Shanghai)
- Specs: RAM and storage options from built-in database
- Model Codes: Last 4 characters with decode attempt
Web Enhancement (when needed):
- Exact processor specifications
- Complete technical specifications
- Warranty status (Apple Check Coverage)
- Current market value
Reference
The model code database is continuously expandable as new mappings are discovered.
Notes
- Old format (12 chars): decodable locally for location/date, web needed for exact model
- New format (10-14 chars, 2021+): fully randomized, web lookup is the only option
- IMEI numbers (15 digits) are NOT serial numbers — note this if a user provides one
- The script outputs JSON for easy parsing