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What is an IMEI Number?

5 min readUpdated 6/1/2025

Understanding IMEI Numbers

IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit number assigned to every mobile device. It serves as the device's global digital fingerprint — no two phones in the world share the same IMEI. The number is permanently assigned during manufacturing and registered with the GSMA, the international body that governs mobile standards.

Why IMEI Numbers Matter

IMEI numbers are crucial for several reasons:

  • Device Identification: Carriers and law enforcement use IMEI to identify and track specific devices in case of theft or loss
  • Carrier Lock Status: Shows if your device is locked to a specific network operator
  • Blacklist Check: Verifies if the device has been reported stolen, lost, or blocked by a carrier
  • Warranty Information: Linked to manufacturer warranty records for service and repairs
  • Purchase Verification: Essential when buying used devices to confirm authenticity and clean status

IMEI Format: How to Read It

Every IMEI is exactly 15 digits and follows the TAC-SNR-CD structure:

  • TAC (Type Allocation Code) — digits 1–8: Identifies the device model and manufacturer. Allocated by the GSMA.
  • SNR (Serial Number) — digits 9–14: Unique number for each individual unit within a model.
  • CD (Check Digit) — digit 15: A validation digit calculated using the Luhn algorithm, which lets you verify the IMEI hasn't been corrupted or tampered with.

Where to Find Your IMEI

  1. Dial *#06# — Works on virtually every phone; IMEI appears on screen instantly without pressing call
  2. Settings → About Phone — On iPhone: Settings → General → About. On Android: Settings → About phone → Status
  3. SIM tray — Laser-engraved on the SIM tray of most iPhones (4s through 14 Pro)
  4. Original box — Printed on the retail box barcode label — the most reliable offline source
  5. Apple ID / Google Account — Visible at appleid.apple.com or myaccount.google.com → Security → Your devices, even if the phone is unavailable

IMEI vs Serial Number

These two identifiers are often confused. IMEI is a global network identifier used by carriers; a serial number is the manufacturer's internal production reference. See our full comparison: IMEI vs Serial Number — key differences explained.

What Can an IMEI Check Tell You?

Running an IMEI check reveals the device model, blacklist / stolen status, carrier lock status, iCloud Activation Lock (for iPhones), warranty validity, and purchase country. Run a free IMEI check to see basic device info, or get a full verification report for a complete picture before buying a used phone.

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