How to Find Your IMEI Code: A Comprehensive Guide for Every Device

The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) code is a unique 15-digit number that identifies your mobile device. Think of it as your phone’s fingerprint. It’s crucial for various reasons, including:

• Identifying your device: In case of theft or loss, your IMEI code can help law enforcement and mobile network operators track down your phone and prevent it from being used on their networks.
• Blocking a stolen device: If your phone is stolen, you can report the IMEI code to your carrier to block it, rendering the device useless to the thief.
• Checking warranty status: Many manufacturers use the IMEI code to track the warranty status of your device.
• Verifying device authenticity: You can use the IMEI code to check if your phone is genuine and not a counterfeit.
• Unlocking your phone: In some cases, the IMEI code is required to unlock your phone from a specific carrier.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through various methods to find your IMEI code on different devices, regardless of whether you have the phone in hand or not.

Finding Your IMEI Code: Multiple Methods

There are several ways to locate your IMEI code. The easiest and most common methods include using the dialer app, checking your phone’s settings, looking at the SIM tray or battery compartment, or referring to the original packaging.

Method 1: Using the Dialer App (*#06#)

This is the quickest and easiest way to find your IMEI code on virtually any mobile phone, regardless of the operating system (Android or iOS). Here’s how:

1. Open the Dialer App: Locate and open the phone app on your device, the same app you use to make phone calls.
2. Enter the Code: Dial *#06# (star-hash-zero-six-hash).
3. View the IMEI Code: The IMEI code (or codes, if your phone has dual SIM functionality) will automatically appear on your screen. On some older devices, you might need to press the call button after entering the code.
4. Record the IMEI Code: Write down or take a screenshot of the IMEI code(s). Store it in a safe and accessible place. Consider using a password manager or secure note-taking app.

Important Note: This method works even if you don’t have a SIM card installed in your phone. It accesses the IMEI code directly from the phone’s firmware.

Method 2: Checking Your Phone’s Settings (Android)

For Android devices, the IMEI code is usually located within the settings menu. The exact path may vary slightly depending on your phone’s manufacturer and Android version, but here’s a general guide:

1. Open Settings: Locate and open the Settings app on your Android device. The icon usually looks like a gear or cogwheel.
2. Navigate to About Phone: Scroll down and tap on “About Phone” or “About Device”. On some phones, this may be labeled as “System” and then “About Phone”.
3. Find IMEI Information: Look for the “IMEI information”, “Status”, or a similar option within the “About Phone” menu. Tap on it.
4. View the IMEI Code(s): You should see the IMEI code (or codes for dual-SIM phones) listed. You might also see other information like the serial number and model number.
5. Record the IMEI Code: Write down or take a screenshot of the IMEI code(s).

Specific Android Brand Instructions:

• Samsung: Settings > About phone > Status > IMEI information
• Google Pixel: Settings > About phone > SIM status > IMEI
• Xiaomi: Settings > About phone > All specs > Status > IMEI
• OnePlus: Settings > About phone > Status > IMEI information
• Huawei: Settings > About phone > Status > IMEI information

If you’re having trouble finding the IMEI code using these instructions, try using the search function within the Settings app and searching for “IMEI”.

Method 3: Checking Your Phone’s Settings (iOS – iPhone)

Finding the IMEI code on an iPhone is also straightforward using the settings app:

1. Open Settings: Open the Settings app on your iPhone. The icon usually looks like a grey gear.
2. Navigate to General: Scroll down and tap on “General”.
3. Tap on About: Tap on “About” at the top of the General menu.
4. Find the IMEI Code: Scroll down to find the “IMEI” entry. You’ll also find the serial number here. For iPhone models with dual SIM, you’ll see two IMEI numbers (IMEI1 and IMEI2).
5. Record the IMEI Code: Write down the IMEI code(s) or copy and paste it into a safe location. You can long-press on the IMEI number to copy it.

Alternative Method for iPhones:

You can also find the IMEI code of your iPhone on your computer if it’s synced with iTunes or Finder:

1. Connect to Computer: Connect your iPhone to your computer using a Lightning cable.
2. Open iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina and later): Open iTunes if you’re using macOS Mojave or earlier, or Windows. On macOS Catalina and later, open Finder.
3. Select Your Device: In iTunes, click on the phone icon near the top left of the window. In Finder, select your iPhone from the sidebar.
4. View Device Information: Click on the “Summary” tab (iTunes) or the “General” tab (Finder).
5. Find the IMEI Code: Click on the phone number under the device name. This will cycle through the phone number, serial number, and IMEI code. For iPhones with dual SIM, both IMEI numbers will be displayed.

Method 4: Checking the SIM Tray

On some phones, especially newer models, the IMEI code is printed directly on the SIM card tray. This is a convenient way to find the IMEI without having to power on the phone or navigate through menus.

1. Locate the SIM Tray: Find the SIM card tray on your phone. It’s usually located on the side of the phone and requires a SIM eject tool (or a straightened paperclip) to open.
2. Eject the SIM Tray: Insert the SIM eject tool into the small hole next to the SIM tray and gently push until the tray pops out.
3. Examine the SIM Tray: Look closely at the SIM tray. The IMEI code might be printed on a sticker or laser-etched directly onto the tray itself.
4. Record the IMEI Code: Write down the IMEI code.
5. Reinsert the SIM Tray: Carefully reinsert the SIM tray into the phone.

Important Note: Be gentle when ejecting and reinserting the SIM tray to avoid damaging the phone or the SIM card.

Method 5: Checking the Battery Compartment

On older phones with removable batteries, the IMEI code is often printed on a sticker located inside the battery compartment. This method is less common on modern smartphones.

1. Power Off the Phone: Turn off your phone completely before removing the battery.
2. Remove the Battery Cover: Locate the latch or release mechanism for the battery cover and remove it.
3. Remove the Battery: Carefully remove the battery from the battery compartment.
4. Locate the IMEI Sticker: Look for a sticker inside the battery compartment. The IMEI code should be printed on this sticker, along with other information like the model number and serial number.
5. Record the IMEI Code: Write down the IMEI code.
6. Reinsert the Battery and Cover: Reinsert the battery and replace the battery cover.
7. Power On the Phone: Turn your phone back on.

Caution: Be careful when removing and reinserting the battery to avoid damaging the battery connectors.

Method 6: Checking the Original Packaging

The IMEI code is always printed on the original box that your phone came in. This is a reliable method if you still have the box.

1. Locate the Original Box: Find the box that your phone was packaged in.
2. Examine the Box: Look for a sticker on the box. The sticker will usually contain information like the phone’s model number, serial number, IMEI code, and barcodes.
3. Find the IMEI Code: The IMEI code will be clearly labeled, often with the abbreviation “IMEI”.
4. Record the IMEI Code: Write down the IMEI code.

Tip: It’s a good idea to keep the original box in a safe place, even after you’ve set up your phone. It can be useful for warranty claims, resale, or in case you need to find the IMEI code later.

Method 7: Checking Your Carrier Account

Your mobile carrier likely has a record of your phone’s IMEI code associated with your account. You can usually find this information by logging into your online account or contacting customer support.

1. Log into Your Online Account: Go to your carrier’s website and log into your account using your username and password.
2. Navigate to Device Information: Look for a section related to your devices or phone details. The location of this section will vary depending on the carrier.
3. Find the IMEI Code: The IMEI code should be listed alongside other information about your phone, such as the model number and serial number.
4. Record the IMEI Code: Write down the IMEI code.

Alternative Method: Contact Customer Support:

If you can’t find the IMEI code online, you can contact your carrier’s customer support. They will be able to verify your identity and provide you with the IMEI code associated with your account.

Method 8: Using Google Find My Device (Android)

If you’ve lost your Android phone and have Google’s Find My Device enabled, you can find the IMEI code through the Find My Device website.

1. Go to Google Find My Device: Open a web browser on your computer or another device and go to https://www.google.com/android/find.
2. Sign In to Your Google Account: Sign in to the Google account that is associated with your lost phone.
3. Select Your Device: If you have multiple devices linked to your Google account, select the lost phone from the list.
4. Find the IMEI Code: Click on the “Info” icon next to your device. The IMEI code will be displayed in the device information panel.
5. Record the IMEI Code: Write down the IMEI code.

Important Note: This method only works if you had Find My Device enabled on your phone before it was lost or stolen.

Method 9: Using Apple ID Account Page (iPhone, iPad)

For iPhones and iPads, you can find the IMEI/Serial number listed on your Apple ID account page, *if* the device was associated with that account. This is extremely useful if the device has been lost or stolen.

1. Go to Apple ID Account Page: Open a web browser on your computer or another device and go to https://appleid.apple.com/.
2. Sign In to Your Apple ID Account: Sign in to the Apple ID account that is associated with the lost phone.
3. Select Devices: Scroll down to the “Devices” section. A list of devices associated with your Apple ID will be shown.
4. Select Your Device: Select the device you are looking for the IMEI/Serial number for.
5. Find the Serial Number/IMEI Code: The Serial number and IMEI (if applicable to the device) will be displayed.
6. Record the IMEI Code: Write down the IMEI code.

What to Do After Finding Your IMEI Code

Once you’ve found your IMEI code, it’s important to store it in a safe and accessible place. Here are some suggestions:

• Store it in a Password Manager: Use a password manager like LastPass, 1Password, or Bitwarden to securely store the IMEI code.
• Save it in a Secure Note-Taking App: Use a secure note-taking app like Evernote or OneNote to store the IMEI code. Make sure to encrypt the note for added security.
• Write it Down and Keep it in a Safe Place: Write down the IMEI code on a piece of paper and keep it in a safe place, such as a safe deposit box or a locked drawer.
• Email it to Yourself: Email the IMEI code to yourself using a secure email provider like ProtonMail or Tutanota.

In Case of Loss or Theft:

If your phone is lost or stolen, immediately report the IMEI code to your mobile carrier and local law enforcement. This will help them track down your phone and prevent it from being used on their networks. You can also use the IMEI code to file an insurance claim if you have phone insurance.

Conclusion

Finding your IMEI code is a simple but crucial task. By following the methods outlined in this guide, you can easily locate your IMEI code and keep it safe. Remember, the IMEI code is your phone’s unique identifier, and it can be invaluable in case of loss, theft, or when dealing with warranty issues. Taking a few minutes to find and record your IMEI code today can save you a lot of trouble in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the difference between IMEI and Serial Number?

A: The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit number that identifies a mobile device connected to a cellular network. The Serial Number is a unique identifier assigned to a specific device by the manufacturer, but it isn’t necessarily tied to cellular network connectivity. Some devices, like tablets without cellular capabilities, only have Serial Numbers.

Q: My phone has two SIM cards. Does it have two IMEI codes?

A: Yes, dual-SIM phones have two IMEI codes, one for each SIM card slot.

Q: Can I change my IMEI code?

A: No, it is illegal to change your IMEI code in most countries. The IMEI code is permanently programmed into the phone’s hardware.

Q: What do I do if I can’t find my IMEI code using any of these methods?

A: Contact your mobile carrier or the phone manufacturer for assistance. They may be able to help you locate the IMEI code based on your account information or other device details.

Q: Is it safe to share my IMEI code?

A: It’s generally safe to share your IMEI code with your mobile carrier, law enforcement, or the phone manufacturer for legitimate purposes, such as reporting a lost or stolen phone or filing a warranty claim. However, be cautious about sharing your IMEI code with untrusted sources, as it could potentially be used for fraudulent activities.

Q: Can someone track my phone using just the IMEI number?

A: Yes, Law enforcement agencies and mobile network operators can track a phone using its IMEI number. This is one of the primary purposes of the IMEI. Regular individuals cannot typically track a phone using just the IMEI number as they lack the necessary access to cellular network infrastructure and databases.