How to Find IMEI on Android: Every Method Explained

Your Android phone's IMEI number (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is one of the most important identifiers tied to your device. Whether you need it to report a stolen phone, unlock your device for a new carrier, or verify a second-hand purchase, knowing where to find it — and which method works best for your situation — makes a real difference.

What Is an IMEI Number and Why Does It Matter?

The IMEI is a unique 15-digit code assigned to every mobile device that connects to a cellular network. Think of it as your phone's serial number, but more powerful — it's recognized globally by carriers and law enforcement.

Key uses include:

• Carrier unlocking requests — carriers require your IMEI to process unlock submissions
• Stolen device reporting — a reported IMEI can be blacklisted, making the phone unusable on most networks
• Second-hand device verification — services like IMEI.info let you check a device's history before buying
• Warranty and insurance claims — manufacturers and insurers often ask for it during support requests

Dual-SIM Android phones will have two IMEI numbers — one per SIM slot. This is normal and both are valid identifiers for your device.

Method 1: Dial *#06# on the Phone App 📱

The fastest method that works on virtually every Android phone, regardless of manufacturer or Android version:

1. Open the Phone app (the one you use to make calls)
2. Dial *#06#
3. Your IMEI number (or numbers, if dual-SIM) appears on screen immediately

You don't press call — the code triggers automatically. This method works even if you don't have a SIM card inserted, and it works across Samsung, Google Pixel, OnePlus, Motorola, Xiaomi, and most other Android brands.

Method 2: Find It in Settings

The Settings menu gives you your IMEI in a readable format you can screenshot or copy. The exact path varies slightly by manufacturer and Android version, but the most common routes are:

For most Android phones (Android 8 and later):

• Go to Settings → About Phone → Status → IMEI Information

For Samsung Galaxy devices:

• Go to Settings → About Phone → Status Information → IMEI Information

For Google Pixel:

• Go to Settings → About Phone → IMEI

If you're running an older Android version or a heavily customized UI (like MIUI on Xiaomi or One UI on Samsung), the path may be slightly different — but "About Phone" is always a reliable starting point.

Method 3: Check the Physical Device

If your phone won't turn on, or you're checking before activating it, the IMEI is often printed directly on the hardware:

• Removable battery compartment: Look under the battery — many older Android phones print the IMEI label here
• SIM card tray: Some manufacturers engrave or print the IMEI on the SIM tray itself
• Back of the device: Older or budget phones sometimes include it on the rear label

This method is especially useful when buying a used device — you can compare the physical IMEI against what shows in Settings to confirm they match.

Method 4: Check the Original Packaging

The retail box your Android phone came in almost always has a sticker with the IMEI, model number, and serial number. If you kept the box, this is a reliable fallback — particularly if the phone is lost or you can't power it on.

Method 5: Check Your Google Account

Google ties your device's IMEI to your account in some cases. You can check:

1. Visit myaccount.google.com on a browser
2. Go to Security → Your Devices
3. Select your Android device

The information shown here varies — some accounts display the IMEI, others only show the device model and last sign-in. This method is more useful as a backup than a primary source.

Comparing Methods at a Glance

Variables That Affect Your Experience 🔍

Not every method works the same way for every user. A few factors that change how you find your IMEI:

Android version and manufacturer skin Heavily customized Android versions — like Samsung's One UI, Xiaomi's HyperOS, or Oppo's ColorOS — sometimes reorganize the Settings menu. The "About Phone" path is reliable, but sub-menus may be named differently. If you can't find "IMEI Information," use the *#06# shortcut instead.

Dual-SIM vs. single-SIM devices Dual-SIM phones have two IMEIs. When contacting a carrier for unlocking or reporting, confirm which SIM slot they need — it's usually IMEI 1, but not always.

Older Android versions Devices running Android 6 or earlier may show IMEI information under Settings → About Phone → Phone Identity rather than "Status." The structure is slightly different but the information is there.

Phone condition If your phone is lost, damaged, or won't power on, the physical methods (box, device label) become your primary options. This is a good reason to write down or photograph your IMEI when you first set up a new device.

A Note on IMEI and Security

Your IMEI is a hardware identifier, not a password — but it's still worth treating with some care. Sharing it with your carrier, law enforcement, or a reputable IMEI checking service is fine. Avoid sharing it casually in public forums or with unknown third parties, as it can theoretically be used to attempt fraudulent unlock requests or clone reports in some scenarios.

Which method makes the most sense for your situation depends on why you need the IMEI, whether your phone is accessible right now, and how your specific Android version and manufacturer have organized the Settings menu.