The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is a unique number given to every phone, and it is used for identifying a phone. Most people don’t know what the IMEI number is, as there is usually no need to use it.
However, this number is actually important, especially when your phone is lost or stolen. This number is required to identify your phone, so it could be blocked from networks (but that’s rarely the case). You may also be required to provide your IMEI number if you want to sell your phone, if the buyer wants to check if it was stolen.
Although the IMEI number is not located right in front of you, finding it is not a difficult job and there are many different methods to find it. Even if you have lost your phone, you can still find your IMEI number through different methods and report that it is lost.Note: The IMEI number is attached to your SIM card, so if you have a dual SIM phone you will have two IMEI numbers (both will be required).
Method #1: Use a USSD Code (all phones)
A USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a protocol used by GMS cellular services to directly make a connection between service provider and phone. This is definitely the easiest way to find your IMEI number if you have your phone with you. This method will work on almost all phones, every registered phone has an IMEI number only counterfeit phones lack IMEI number.
The process is simple, just go to your phone’s keypad and dial *#06#.
There is no need to tap “Call” button, as soon as you finish typing your IMEI number will be displayed. This method works on all phones, smartphones and feature phones. Once you see your IMEI number, it is better to note it down in case your phone gets lost or stolen (a screenshot will work too).
Find the IMEI number on the iPhone
Method #1
If you have an iPhone 5 or newer model, the IMEI number is located at the back of the phone. The IMEI number is engraved at the base on the phone’s back.
Method #2
The IMEI number can also be found in the software of your iPhone device.
Just go to Settings and tap on General.
From there tap on “About” and your IMEI number will be displayed (don’t forget to note it down).
Find the IMEI number on Android
Method #1
To check IMEI number on Android, tap on Settings and in there tap on “About device” (on some phones it will be “About phone”).
In “About device” tap on “Status”, and from there scroll down until you see your IMEI number under the heading “IMEI”.
Method #2
If your Android device is connected to a Google account then you can also see your IMEI number from Google Dashboard.
Just sign in to Google Dashboard with the account that was connected to your Android phone.
In the Dashboard, tap on “Android” (it will have a green robot on side).
All the Android devices that use this account will be displayed along with their IMEI number. good part is that, this method works even if the phone is stolen or lost and Google account is changed.
Other Methods to Find the IMEI Number
Under the battery
If you have a phone with a removable battery, then there is a good chance that the IMEI number will be located under it.
Just turn off the phone to avoid any loss of data or corrupting any apps, and remove the back cover of the phone. Now, gently remove the battery (there should be a place on the bottom or top to hook your nail and pull it out). Once removed you should see your IMEI Number located on a sticker along with other phone information such as, model and FCC ID, etc.
On the Purchase Slip and the Phone Box
IMEI number is located on the purchase slip and also the box of the phone (generally, at the sides). This is quite handy as even if your phone is lost or stolen, there is a good chance you still have the phone’s retail box.
If you have any questions or having difficulty in finding the IMEI number of your phone, then let us know in the comments below we will love to help.
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