What’s all the fuss about IMEI numbers? We’ve got answers for all your IMEI questions.
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How do I find my device’s IMEI number?
How do I find my IMEI if my phone isn't with me?
What’s an IMEI number?
An IMEI number, or International Mobile Equipment Identity, is a unique 15-digit number that identifies a device. Every smartphone has an IMEI number.
Simply put, this number is the identity card or fingerprint of your phone.
Your phone carrier uses the IMEI to recognize and connect your device to their network. Phone carriers, sellers, and manufacturers can use an IMEI number to track smartphones that may be lost or stolen.
If you need to return your device, the seller will ask you for the IMEI number to make sure you’re returning the correct one.
How do I find my device’s IMEI number?
iPhone
Go to “Settings” > “General” > “About”. You might need to scroll to find the IMEI number.
Android
Go to “Settings” > “About phone”. You might need to scroll to find the IMEI number.
All phones
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If the phone is switched off, it's possible to find the IMEI on a label stuck on the battery (this is only applicable to devices with a removable battery).
- Or, go to the phone's keypad and enter these symbols: *#06# (star, hashtag, zero, six, hashtag).
Note that dual-SIM phones have a second IMEI number that is sometimes needed by the carrier. This secondary IMEI can be found in the same way as the primary one, by dialing *#06#.
How do I find my IMEI if my phone isn't with me?
iPhone
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Log in with the Apple ID you use on your phone
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Scroll to "Devices" and select your phone
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The serial number and IMEI should be visible here
iPad or iPod touch
Find the IMEI on an iPad or iPod touch by following the steps here
Android
Retrieve it directly from Google's servers — you can find all your Google user information on your Google Dashboard.
Log in to your Google Dashboard
A few more ways
- Check the box the phone came in at the time of purchase, it may be listed there. (This is unfortunately not always the case, especially for refurbished items).
- Check the phone's purchase invoice. You can sometimes find it there.