How to Check Your IMEI Number: iPhone, Android, and Beyond

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Losing your phone is a nightmare, but having your IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number ready can be a lifesaver. Think of it as your phone’s unique fingerprint or social security number—no two devices in the world have the same one.

Whether you are trying to find a lost device, selling your old phone, or checking if a second-hand phone is blacklisted, here is exactly how to find it in seconds.

1. The Universal Method (Works on ALL Phones)

This is the fastest way and works on every mobile device ever made—from the latest iPhone to an old Nokia “brick” phone.

  1. Open your Phone/Dialer app.
  2. Dial *#06#.
  3. A box will instantly pop up on your screen displaying your IMEI number(s).

Note: If your phone has two SIM slots, you will see two IMEI numbers (IMEI 1 and IMEI 2).

2. How to Check on Android

If you can’t access your dialer or prefer navigating through the menus:

  1. Go to Settings.
  2. Scroll down to the bottom and tap About Phone.
  3. Tap on Status or IMEI Information.
  4. You will find the 15-digit code listed there.

3. How to Check on iPhone (iOS)

Apple makes it very easy to find your device details:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap on General.
  3. Tap on About.
  4. Scroll down until you see the IMEI section.

Bonus: On newer iPhones, you can also find the IMEI printed in tiny text on the SIM tray. You’ll need a SIM ejector tool to pop it out and see it.

4. What if the Phone is Off or Broken?

If your screen is smashed or the battery is dead, don’t worry. You can still find the number:

  • The Original Box: Look at the sticker on the back or side of the retail box your phone came in. It is always printed near the barcode.
  • The Bill/Invoice: Most retailers print the IMEI on your physical or digital receipt for warranty purposes.
  • Google/Apple Account: * Android: Log into Google Find My Device and click the “i” icon next to your registered phone.
    • iOS: Log into appleid.apple.com on a computer, go to the Devices section, and select your iPhone.

🛡️ Why should you save your IMEI?

ReasonBenefit
TheftPolice need this number to track or identify your phone.
BlockingYou can call your carrier to “blacklist” the IMEI so the thief can’t use it.
ResaleBuyers use it to check if the phone is genuine or stolen.
InsuranceMost insurance claims require the IMEI as proof of ownership.

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