What an IMEI is and why you need it

An IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit number that uniquely identifies your phone or tablet on cellular networks. Think of it like a serial number for your device — no two phones have the same IMEI. You need it when reporting a phone as lost or stolen, switching carriers, unlocking a device, or troubleshooting network problems with your provider.

The IMEI is different from your phone number or SIM card number. Your phone number changes if you switch carriers; your SIM card is replaceable. Your IMEI stays with the physical device itself. If your phone is stolen, the IMEI is what carriers use to block it from working on their networks, even if someone puts a different SIM card inside.

Key Takeaways

  • You can find your IMEI by dialing *#06# on any phone — the number appears on screen within seconds.
  • On iPhones, the IMEI is in Settings under General, then About, listed as "IMEI".
  • On Android phones, go to Settings, then About Phone, and look for "IMEI" or "IMEI 1" and "IMEI 2" if your phone has two SIM slots.
  • Your IMEI also appears on the original box your phone came in, on the SIM tray, and on your carrier's account page.
  • Write down or screenshot your IMEI and store it somewhere safe — you will need it if your phone is lost, stolen, or damaged.

The fastest way: dial *#06#

The quickest method works on nearly every phone, regardless of brand or operating system. Open the Phone app (the one you use to make calls) and dial *#06# exactly as written. Do not press call — the IMEI appears automatically on your screen within a second or two.

Write down all 15 digits or take a screenshot. This method works even if your phone is locked, has no SIM card, or is not connected to a network. If nothing appears after you dial it, your phone may not support this code — move to the method for your specific device type below.

Finding your IMEI on an iPhone

Open the Settings app and tap General. Scroll down and tap About. Look for the line labeled IMEI — it is the 15-digit number you need. On older iPhones, you may need to scroll down further to see it.

You can also find your IMEI on the original box your iPhone came in — it is printed on the back or side. If you no longer have the box, check your carrier's website or app. Log into your account, find your device details, and the IMEI will be listed there.

Finding your IMEI on an Android phone

Open the Settings app and scroll down to find About Phone (the exact name varies by manufacturer — it might say "Device Information" or "Phone Information"). Tap it and look for IMEI or IMEI 1.

If your phone has two SIM card slots, you will see both IMEI 1 and IMEI 2 — each slot has its own IMEI. Write down the one that matches the SIM card you are currently using, or note both if you use both slots. Different Android manufacturers place this information in slightly different locations, but it is always under a section about your phone's information or device details.

Other places your IMEI is printed or stored

Your IMEI appears in several physical locations on the phone itself. Remove the SIM tray (use the small ejector tool that came with your phone or a straightened paperclip) and look at the tray itself — the IMEI is often printed there. On some phones, it is printed on the back of the device under the battery, though most modern phones have sealed batteries you cannot access.

Check the original box or paperwork that came with your phone — the IMEI is printed on the box, the receipt, or the warranty card. If you bought the phone from a carrier store, your receipt may also list it. Your carrier's website or mobile app shows your device IMEI under account settings or device information — log in and look for a section about your phone or device details.

What to do once you have your IMEI

Write down your IMEI and store it somewhere you can find it later — a notes app on your computer, a password manager, or a physical notebook. Do not rely on memory. If your phone is lost or stolen, you will need this number when ready, and you may not have access to your device to look it up.

If your phone is stolen, contact your carrier right away with the IMEI. They can block the device on their network, which prevents anyone else from using it even with a different SIM card. You can also report it to local police and to the IMEI database used by carriers worldwide. If your phone is damaged or malfunctioning, your carrier or manufacturer may ask for the IMEI to verify ownership or process a replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone use my phone if they have the IMEI?

No. The IMEI identifies your device to the network, but it does not unlock the phone or give access to your data. Someone with your IMEI could report it as their own to a carrier, but carriers verify ownership through account information and ID. If you lose your phone, change your account password when ready and contact your carrier.

What is the difference between IMEI and IMSI?

IMEI identifies the physical phone; IMSI identifies the SIM card and your account on the network. You need the IMEI to report a lost phone or unlock a device. The IMSI is managed by your carrier and is not something you typically need to find yourself.

Do tablets have an IMEI?

Only tablets with cellular service (Wi-Fi + Cellular models) have an IMEI. Wi-Fi-only tablets do not connect to cellular networks and do not have one. If your tablet has a SIM card slot, it has an IMEI — find it the same way you would on a phone.

Will my IMEI change if I get a new SIM card?

No. Your IMEI is tied to the physical phone and never changes, even if you swap SIM cards, switch carriers, or factory reset the device. Only the physical phone itself has an IMEI.

What if the *#06# code does not work on my phone?

Use the Settings method for your device type instead — it works on all phones. If Settings does not show an IMEI, check the SIM tray, the original box, or log into your carrier's account online. Every phone has an IMEI somewhere; some devices just do not support the dial code.