how to check the IMEI number in Android

How to Check the IMEI Number in Android

Have you ever needed to know how to check the IMEI number in Android? I had to check mine recently when my network provider attempted to recover my stolen phone.

IMEI is the short-form of International Mobile Equipment Identity. It is used by network providers to blacklist stolen phones. Each and every phone has an unique IMEI number of 14-15 digits.

how to check the IMEI number in Android
How to Check the IMEI Number in Android

It is advisable to store this number somewhere as it comes handy when asked. You can usually find the IMEI number on the box your phone came packaged in, but it can sometimes be a bit tricky to locate.

Read on to learn 5 different methods to find your IMEI. You can use whichever suits you.

Method 1: Using the Phone Dialer

This method is by far the easiest one to find IMEI number, provided that your phone is with you.

All you have to do is open Phone Dialer app on your phone, and enter *#06#.

This doesn’t work for tablets without cellular.

imei popup

You’ll see a popup containing the IMEI number will be displayed instantly as soon as you type the code.

Please note that you cannot copy that number; you’ll have to write it down yourself somewhere.

Method 2: Finding the IMEI Number in Settings

Another way to find your phone’s IMEI number is from the Settings app. Here’s a detailed guide on how to find it.

  1. Open settings app on your phone and scroll down to the bottom. Tap on About Phone.
tap on about in settings

2. Tap on Status.

tap on status

3. Quickly hover to IMEI information option and tap on it. You’ll find your phone’s IMEI number displayed there.

tap on imei information

This method is quite long compared to previous one but it works perfectly. On a side note, this method is of no use when your phone isn’t accessible to you.

Method 3: Looking Under the Battery

If your phone has a removable battery, this method can be quite handy. If your phone has a non-removable battery, the IMEI number is usually written on the back of the phone.

All you need to do is power off your phone and gently remove the battery. The IMEI number should be present there.

imei behind battery

Method 4: Installing Third Party Apps

There are loads of apps available on the Play Store for retrieving your phone’s diagnostic report and hardware information.

I recommend Get my IMEI.

This app allows you to copy and share your IMEI number. This app has zero ads unlike others. Therefore, if you want to install any third-party app to know your IMEI, I don’t think there is any better option than this.

Download: Get my IMEI

get my imei

Method 5: Locate It on Your Phone’s Packaging

The IMEI number usually is written on your phone’s packaging. Rest assured, you don’t need to flip through those congested guide books; you only need the box.

  1. Locate the barcode sticker on your box. It’s usually found on the packaging flap as a seal.

2. You’ll find the number near the barcode sticker or serial number printed there.

imei in retail box

This method is quite useful when your device is actually stolen or cannot be accessed by you.

Wrapping Up

Let’s recap:

Method 1 is the easiest way to find your IMEI number and I prefer this method over any other.

Method 2 describes detailed steps for finding IMEI from settings app. If the first one doesn’t work for you, this will definitely work.

Method 3 is for people who can’t power on their phone although it’s useless for phones with non-removable batteries.

Method 4 involves the installation of a third party app. In turn gives you more options like copying and sharing, which I find useful and unique.

Method 5 is for you if you’ve lost your phone or don’t have access to it. The only thing you need is packaging box.

Were you able to locate your IMEI information? Which method worked for you? Let me know in the comments section.

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2 Comments

  1. I’ve been looking for 3 days now on where to check the IMEI number I have been to countless websites turn the different options and all I can find is separate ones for iPhone separate ones for Verizon separate ones for AT&T etc etc etc! never can I just find an IMEI checker on its own would you be able to help at all??

    1. Hi Mike & Molly,
      we know how frustrating it can be to search around countless websites and fail to find what you’re looking for. We hope you followed the steps in this article to check the IMEI number for your Android phone.

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