Find Your Android Device's IMEI Number Guide

Understanding What an IMEI Number Is

An IMEI number stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. It's a unique 15-digit code assigned to every mobile device that connects to cellular networks. Think of it like a fingerprint for your phone — no two devices share the same IMEI number, even if they're the same model and color.

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Your Android device receives its IMEI during manufacturing. Manufacturers register these numbers with international databases to track devices across the globe. The number contains specific information encoded within its digits. The first eight digits identify the device's manufacturer and model type. The next six digits represent the serial number unique to your individual device. The final digit is a check digit used to verify the entire number is valid.

IMEI numbers serve several practical purposes. Mobile carriers use them to track device activation and service plans. Law enforcement agencies can use IMEI information during investigations. If your phone gets stolen, the IMEI can be used to block the device from connecting to cellular networks. Insurance companies may request this number when processing claims. Technology repair shops often need it for warranty verification or repair tracking.

It's important to understand that your IMEI is different from your phone number, SIM card number, or device serial number. Your phone number is temporary and can change if you switch carriers. Your SIM card has its own identification number called an IMSI. Your device serial number is a separate manufacturer code. Only the IMEI serves as the permanent, unique identifier for your specific Android device.

Practical Takeaway: Keep a record of your IMEI number in a secure location separate from your phone. Write it down or store it in a cloud backup. This information becomes valuable if your device is lost, stolen, or needs repairs.

Method 1: Using the Phone Dialer Code

The quickest method to locate your IMEI number uses a special code entered through your phone's dialer application. This method works on virtually all Android devices and takes less than one minute. You don't need to navigate through multiple menus or access settings.

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Start by opening your phone's dialer app — this is the same application you use to make phone calls. Look for the icon with a phone receiver or phone pad symbol on your home screen. Once the dialer opens, you'll see the standard number pad used for entering phone numbers.

Type the following code exactly as shown: *#06#. Do not include any spaces or additional characters. After typing all six characters, your phone will automatically display your IMEI information. On most Android devices, the screen shows your IMEI number almost instantly, without requiring you to press the call button.

Some devices with dual SIM cards will display two IMEI numbers on the screen. Each SIM slot has its own IMEI number. The first number listed corresponds to your primary SIM card slot, and the second number corresponds to your secondary SIM card slot. If your phone only has one SIM card, you'll see only one IMEI number.

The displayed number appears in a popup window or notification box. You can take a screenshot of this screen by pressing the Volume Down button and Power button simultaneously for a few seconds. A screenshot saves to your photo gallery for future reference. Alternatively, you can manually write down the 15-digit number.

Practical Takeaway: Try the dialer code method first — it's the fastest option and requires no special permissions or app downloads. The information displays immediately without any additional steps.

Method 2: Checking Your Device Settings

If the dialer code doesn't work or you prefer navigating through your settings menu, Android devices store IMEI information in the System Settings application. This method involves a few more steps than the dialer code but provides additional device information at the same time.

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Open your Android device's Settings app. This is typically found on your home screen or in your app drawer. The Settings icon usually looks like a gear or wrench symbol. Once Settings opens, scroll down to find the option labeled "About Phone" or "About Device." Different manufacturers place this option in different locations within the Settings menu.

Tap on "About Phone" to access detailed information about your device. This screen displays various specifications including your device model number, Android version, build number, and other technical details. Look for an option specifically labeled "IMEI" or sometimes "IMEI 1" and "IMEI 2" if you have a dual SIM device.

Some Android devices organize information differently. Samsung devices typically show IMEI under "About Phone" in the main settings. Google Pixel phones display it in the same location. Other manufacturers like OnePlus, Motorola, or Xiaomi follow similar structures. If you don't immediately see an IMEI option, look for tabs or expandable sections within the About Phone screen.

On certain older Android versions or custom versions of Android, you might need to scroll through additional options. Look for sections labeled "Status," "Device Information," or "Hardware Information." Some devices require you to tap "More" or "Advanced" options to reveal additional technical details including IMEI numbers.

Once you locate your IMEI, take a screenshot or write down the complete 15-digit number. Make sure to record all digits accurately — missing or incorrect digits render the number useless for identification or verification purposes.

Practical Takeaway: Use the Settings method when you want to view your IMEI alongside other device information, or when the dialer code method is unavailable on your specific device.

Method 3: Finding IMEI on Your Device's Physical Label

Your Android device's IMEI number is often printed on a physical label located on your device's exterior or interior. This method requires no interaction with the device's software or menus. The label provides a permanent, printed record that exists independent of your phone's electronics.

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Start by examining the back of your device. Many Android phones have a label with printed text on the back panel. This label typically includes a barcode, QR code, and various printed numbers and text. The IMEI usually appears as a long string of numbers labeled "IMEI" or sometimes just listed as a series of 15 digits without a label.

For devices with removable back panels, carefully remove the back cover to reveal the internal label. Some phones require you to power down before removing the cover. The IMEI label might be on the back panel itself or on the internal frame behind the battery. Handle your device gently during this process to avoid damaging components.

On devices without removable covers, check the SIM card tray. Most Android phones have a small slot on the side of the device where you insert your SIM card. Carefully eject this tray using a SIM eject tool — a small metal pin that comes with most devices, or a straightened paperclip works in a pinch. The IMEI number sometimes appears printed on the tray itself or on a label inside the tray slot.

Some manufacturers print the IMEI on the box or documentation that came with your phone. Check the original packaging, purchase receipt, or any documentation included with your device. This information is particularly useful because you can reference it without handling your device.

Additionally, check your phone's battery if it's removable. Older Android devices have IMEI information printed on removable batteries. Flip phones and some older models have labels inside the battery compartment.

Practical Takeaway: The physical label method provides a permanent, offline record of your IMEI. This method works even if your phone won't turn on or has software issues preventing access through menus or dialer codes.

Method 4: Contacting Your Service Provider

If you cannot locate your IMEI using any of the previous methods, your mobile service provider maintains a record of your device's IMEI. When you activate service with a carrier, their systems register your phone's IMEI. Carriers store this information in their customer database and can provide it when requested.

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Contact your mobile carrier's customer service department through their main phone line, website, or mobile app. Have your account information ready when you call. Customer service representatives typically ask for your phone number or account number to locate your information. Once verified as the account holder, they can provide your device's IMEI number.

Different carriers handle this request differently. Verizon customers can call 1-908-559-4899 for technical support. AT&T customers can reach customer service at