Check the back of the handset
While it’s certainly less common these days, you can sometimes find the model name of an Android phone printed on the back of the unit itself. If the device is in a case then carefully remove it and take a look for any markings that reveal the model name. LG often places its legends on the back, as you can see below from the recent LG G6, but Samsung, Sony, HTC, and others tend to leave the chassis blank.
That’s not a problem as you can find the model type by looking in the Settings. Of course, if you still have the box that came with the phone you’ll find the name emblazoned on the side, which would put an end to your quest.
Finding the model name in settings
If you’ve had no luck with the box or the physical device itself, then it’s time to turn to software. On the phone open the Settings app and scroll down to the bottom of the list. Here you should find an option: About Device.
Tap on this and on the next screen look for the section marked Device name. If you’re in luck then this will be the model name – such as Galaxy S6, Xperia X1, Pixel XL, or something else. The problem with this method is that Android allows you to rename a device during setup, so you might find that it’s called Tom’s Phone or something equally unhelpful instead. Fear not though, for you can still divine the origin of your handset. Below Device Name should be a section called Model number. In here you’ll see a less friendly entry most likely combining numbers and letters. Copy this number down and then head to Google. Enter the model number and you should see various results appear, all of which will reveal the true identity of your handset.
One tip we recommend at this point is to go back to Settings>About Phone and tap on Device name. You’ll be presented with a pop up window where you can rename the device.
Do so, but this time include the actual model number – say Tom’s Samsung Galaxy S6 – so if you forget again in the future you’ll be able to find the name a little easier. Martyn has been involved with tech ever since the arrival of his ZX Spectrum back in the early 80s. He covers iOS, Android, Windows and macOS, writing tutorials, buying guides and reviews for Macworld and its sister site Tech Advisor.
