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Key Takeaways

  • The IMEI number is a unique identifier for mobile devices and helps distinguish each device from one another. It is similar to a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) used in the automotive industry.
  • Law enforcement keeps records of lost and recovered phones identified by their IMEI number. Changing the IMEI number is illegal in many regions.
  • You can find your IMEI number on Android by dialing *#06# or in the phone settings. On an iPhone, you can dial *#06#, check the settings menu, or locate it on the SIM tray or the back of older models.

You may have heard your insurance company or law enforcement encourage you to record your IMEI. You might have even seen it in your phone's settings or device packaging. What isn't so clear is what the IMEI number is actually for.

So, what exactly is an IMEI number, and how do you find yours?

What Is an IMEI Number?

The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is a unique numerical identifier for every mobile device. The IMEI number helps to differentiate each device from one another. If you take your phone in for repair, they will track it using the IMEI to distinguish it from the other millions of iPhones, for example.

A standard IMEI number is a 14-digit string, with an additional 15th check digit for verifying the entire string. There is also a 16-digit variation that includes information on the device's software version, known as the IMEISV.

Since 2004, the IMEI has appeared in the format AA-BBBBBB-CCCCCC-D. The sections labeled A and B are known as the Type Allocation Code (TAC). The TAC portion of the IMEI identifies the manufacturer and model of the device. For example, the Google Pixel TAC code is 35-161508, while the iPhone 6s Plus is 35-332907.

Some models have multiple TACs depending on revision, manufacturing location, and other factors. For example, the iPhone 5C had five different TAC codes.

The six C digits represent your device's unique serial number, and the handset manufacturer defines these. The D portion of the IMEI is a check digit that ensures the IMEI meets the Allocation and Approval Guidelines. The check digit is displayed on the packaging to prevent incorrect IMEI recording, but it doesn't make up part of the documented IMEI.

What Is an IMEI Number Used For?

iPad and iPhone on table

The IMEI's primary purpose is to equip your device with a unique ID number. In practice, an IMEI is very similar to the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) used in the automotive industry. Although sometimes confused, the IMEI number is entirely separate from your SIM number and cannot be changed.

When you connect to a cell network, the provider captures both numbers to enable their service. The SIM number identifies your subscriber account, while the IMEI only identifies the device.

If your device is lost or stolen, you can contact your provider, who may be able to place a block on the IMEI number, preventing it from being used to connect to the network. Your provider may also be able to contact other networks, asking them to block the device. Once you've done so, you can use built-in tools to find your phone's location.

Law enforcement often keeps records of lost and recovered phones identified by their IMEI. Since there is no good reason to change the device's IMEI, the practice is illegal in many regions. However, while it may be illegal to change the IMEI of a device, it does happen. Thieves, in particular, will attempt to take non-blacklisted numbers and apply them to their stolen devices to make them usable again. For this reason, we recommend that you never share or post your IMEI number online, or else you may find your device cloned.

How to Find Your IMEI on Android Devices

The quickest way of locating your IMEI number on Android devices (that is, Android devices with a SIM slot—a device without a SIM card slot or 4G/5G capability won't have an IMEI number) is by opening your dialing app and calling *#06#. Your IMEI number should show up on your screen instantly. You should see two IMEI numbers if you're using a dual-sim phone.

Alternatively, head to Settings > My phone or Settings > About phone, depending on the Android device you own. These steps retrieve your device's IMEI number(s).

How to Find Your IMEI on iOS or iPadOS

Just like Android devices, dialing *#06# is the most convenient way of retrieving your iPhone's IMEI number. It's instant and will bring up two IMEI numbers if you have a dual-sim iPhone.

You can also check your IMEI through the iPhone/iPad settings menu by going to Settings > General > About. Scroll down until you find your device's IMEI number.

If, for some reason, your iPhone won't turn on, pop out your device's SIM tray and locate the IMEI under the tray. The IMEI number should be inscribed in this location if you own an iPhone 6s or later.

Older models (iPhone 5, 5s, 5C, 6, and 6 plus) have their IMEI numbers etched at the back of the phone. Besides these, there are many other ways of checking your iPhone's IMEI number.

How to Find Your IMEI Without Your Phone

If you can't access your device (Android or iPhone), there are other ways to find your IMEI, too. The retail packaging should have a label with the IMEI displayed. Your purchase receipt may also have a record of your IMEI (though this isn't universal).

If you are about to purchase a new device, particularly a second-hand one, you'll want to verify its status using the IMEI, too. To do this, head over to IMEI.info and enter the smartphone's IMEI number.

imei info website showing tecno flip smartphone information

This free tool will tell you a bit about the device, as well as offer you additional services like a basic blacklist check. If you want to gain even greater clarity, IMEI.info has premium services like a separate blacklist check for each major US carrier and a SIM-lock status tool. If you're looking for the information in a hurry and don't mind paying for it, the premium service CheckMEND offers a Device History Check for just under a dollar.

The IMEI number is one of the most important and unique ways of identifying your device. If you haven't already, you should locate it and note it immediately. Keep a record of your IMEI somewhere safe, so it's there if you ever need it.