You may have heard of the acronym “IMEI” and know that it refers to your phone’s identifier, but are you sure you know what this function is used for?

Every one sold new phone must have a unique “IMEI” number, which remains with the device throughout its life.

Having become a major target for thefts around the world recently, don't underestimate the importance of the IMEI number, especially having your device's number recorded in a safe place. In this article, we will explain why our mobile devices must have an "IMEI" and list the basic methods that will allow you to find and record your unique number.

What is "IMEI"

Translated from English, “IMEI” means: international mobile equipment identifier.” As the name suggests, each device must have its own unique “IMEI” that will distinguish it from the rest. When you buy a new phone, you may notice the "IMEI" on the box or even on the store receipt. If you ever take your mobile phone in for repair, there is a chance that service center will mark your “IMEI” on the warranty card for identification purposes.

The standard “IMEI” number is a 14-digit string, which is additionally accompanied by a special verification number and now there is also an IMEI/SV (SV - intended for software) with a 16-character string that is only present on new devices. The main purpose of the IMEI goes beyond simple identification; this number can be used to block a device from accessing the network. cellular communication.

If your mobile phone is stolen and you report it to your supplier mobile services, then it blocks the device from accessing its network and may even block access to other networks and the ability to use it in other regions. Police keep a record of all stolen phones and use "IMEI" numbers to identify devices.

Since 2004, the format for unique phone identifiers has been as follows: AA-BBBBBB-CCCCCC-D. The first two parts of the code, labeled A and B, are known as the Type Accommodation Code (TAC) and are directly related to the manufacturer and model of the phone.

For example, the current one has TAC with numbers 01-332700, and Samsung Galaxy S2 uses 35-853704. The code section marked with the letter C is a unique serial code and is assigned exclusively by the manufacturer. The last digit is a check digit and is used to check the entire line.

The “IMEI” is embedded in the device and has nothing to do with the SIM card. If your phone is stolen, settings are reset, and the SIM card is replaced, the IMEI number will not change without outside intervention. If your phone is stolen and you want to block it using the IMEI, be sure to ask your cellular operator to extend the blocking to other networks.

If he does not do this, then you can contact other operators in your region and ask them to activate the blocking by the IMEI number. In some regions, changing the IMEI number is illegal and usually requires a very good reason.

Although it is illegal, changing the IMEI of a device sometimes happens. Thieves find numbers that are not on blacklists and install them on stolen devices so they can be used again.

By the way, in the interests of the investigation in a criminal case, “IMEI” can be used to listen to the device.

How to check your IMEI

Most mobile devices will display their "IMEI" if you enter *#06# on the keypad. This is usually enough to identify a device code that works on both old and new devices. Other methods can also be used. Here are some options for different manufacturers:

  • iOS (iPhone, LTE/3G iPad): Find Settings > General > About phone.
  • Android: Find the About Phone section in the Settings menu.
  • Old Sony or Sony Ericsson: Press "* Right * Left Left * Left *" on your keyboard
  • Blackberry or new Sony Ericsson: find the “Status” section in the “Options” menu.

If you want to know what exactly your “IMEI” phone number means, then you can check it on the website IMEI.info.

Conclusion

"IMEI" numbers of mobile devices are important and unique identifiers that you should know now if you don't already know.

If your phone is stolen, the IMEI won't help you get it back, but you'll get some comfort knowing what you did. mobile phone, which fell into the hands of thieves, the brick is unsuitable for use.

IMEI is a unique number that is issued to all mobile equipment at the factory. Typically this number is represented as a 15-bit number decimal number. Every phone, tablet with mobile connection and 3g/4g modem has such a number. In this article we will talk about how to view IMEI on an Android phone.

Method No. 1. Code *#06#.

Probably the easiest and fastest way to view IMEI is the code *#06#. In order to use it, open the “Calls” application and dial this code, as it is shown in the screenshot below.

Once you type *#06# on your keyboard, a small pop-up window will appear containing your IMEI.


Method number 2. Android settings.

You can also view the IMEI of your Android phone in the settings. To do this, open Settings and go to the “About phone” section (in some cases, the section may be called “About the device”). View device information that is available in this section settings. The IMEI number should also be indicated here. In some cases, in order to view the IMEI, you also need to open the “Status” section.

Many smartphone users have come across the abbreviation IMEI and a long set of numbers. They collided and, most likely, passed by. Indeed, you never know how many sets of numbers are associated with a mobile device. Is it worth paying attention to them?

In the case of IMEI, perhaps it’s worth it. The fact is that this number is a unique identifier that is assigned to each smartphone. And it serves several extremely useful purposes. In our article we will tell you how to find out Phone IMEI, and what it is needed for.

What is IMEI

IMEI (from English International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit international identifier for mobile gadgets. Essentially, this is a serial number that is determined by the operator when the phone is connected. The IMEI number stands for this:

Please note that a dual-SIM phone will be marked with two IMEI numbers, for each SIM card slot.

What is the phone IMEI used for:

  1. Using IMEI, you can obtain complete information about the device at the purchase stage by correlating the identifier contained in the gadget’s system with the one printed on the mobile phone’s body.
  2. Through IMEI you can recognize a stolen or lost phone and return it to the owner.
  3. When making a call from a phone, the telecom operator determines the IMEI and, accordingly, calculates the location of the gadget. Therefore, through IMEI you can monitor a mobile phone or find a lost phone.
  4. Having found out the IMEI, the operator can block the phone if it falls into the hands of criminals.
  5. IMEI code is a manufacturer’s guarantee in terms of build quality and safety for the user.

How to find out the IMEI code of a phone

To determine the identifier mobile device, there are 4 simple methods available to any user:

Method 1. Through a number combination on the keyboard

Open the numeric keypad on your phone and dial *#06#. After this, the IMEI will appear on the screen.


Method 2. Look inside the phone case

If the phone has a removable battery, you can find out the IMEI number by removing the back cover of the mobile phone and removing the battery. Below it will be placed all the information about the phone, including the IMEI number or numbers.


Method 3. Look at the packaging.

A sticker with the IMEI number is placed on the box with the phone. In addition, the identifier is indicated in the device’s warranty card upon purchase. It is very important that the IMEI numbers on the packaging and on the coupon exactly match each other.

Method 4. View in phone settings

The IMEI number must be entered in the information list, which can be accessed through the gadget menu:

  • Open settings;
  • Find the “About phone” section;
  • Click on “General Information”;
  • Go to the “IMEI code data” item.

Why Fly

As can be seen from the illustrations, when preparing material on how to find IMEI, we were helped by the products of the British company Fly. We chose smartphones from this brand for affordability, performance and reliability, which is confirmed by grateful user reviews

Some people have a question: how to find out phone imei?», « how to view imei? or " how to check phone imei?. In this short post I will tell you how to find out imei and how it is useful when your phone is stolen.

How to determine imei of a cell phone?

So, in order to find out the IMEI of your mobile phone, dial “*#06#” on your phone without quotes - asterisk, hash, zero, six, hash. After this, a 15-digit IMEI number will automatically appear on the phone screen.

Why do you need a serial number if your phone is stolen?

If your phone is stolen, you can contact your service provider and ask them to block your phone. This is where IMEI is needed, i.e. They will block using the imei number you specified. After blocking, even if the attacker changes the SIM card, the phone will not be able to be used. So write it down somewhere just in case. serial number your phone.

To tell the truth, I don’t think it will be impossible to use the phone. I believe that there are craftsmen who reflash mobile phones, after which they “come to life”.

And yet, in the list of popular queries I saw the request “find a phone by imei for free.” I’ll tell you right away that this is impossible! Only the police can track the location of the phone. I tried entering the query into the search. I opened the first website I came across, and on it, under various pretexts (to download one of the programs), they put in an archive with a virus. So, the phone was stolen - go to the police.

What is an IMEI code, why is it needed and, most importantly, who needs it? Many have never even heard of him. Someone heard it, but doesn't know. Someone has vague ideas... According to the definition posted on the Wikipedia resource, IMEI(English cell phones of the GSM, WCDMA and IBEN networks, as well as in some satellite phones firmware *#06# on the keyboard)...

What is an IMEI code, why is it needed and, most importantly, who needs it?

Many have never even heard of him. Someone heard it, but doesn't know. Someone has vague ideas...

According to the definition posted on the Wikipedia resource, IMEI(English: International Mobile Equipment Identity) - a number (usually 15-bit decimal) unique for each device using it. Applicable in cell phones networks GSM, WCDMA and IBEN, as well as in some satellite phones. The IMEI is assigned to the phone during manufacturing at the factory. It serves to identify the device on the network and is stored in the device’s firmware. As a rule, IMEI is indicated in four places: in the device itself (in most cases it can be displayed on the screen by typing *#06# on the keyboard), under the battery, on the packaging and in the warranty card. IMEI plays the role of the serial number of the device and is broadcast during authorization on the network. IMEI is also used to track devices, activate hidden functions and block stolen phones at the level of a cellular operator, which does not allow the further use of such a device in the network of this operator, but does not prevent its use in other networks. The model and origin of the phone are described by the first 8 digits of the IMEI (the so-called TAC). The remaining part is the serial number with a check number at the end. Phones that support simultaneous operation of two SIM cards are assigned two IMEI numbers. Manufacturers are constantly improving methods for protecting software from IMEI changes. IN modern devices IMEI is stored in once programmable memory zone and cannot be changed software(except phones with MTK chipset). In some countries, changing IMEI is a criminal offense.

In conclusion, some useful advice:

Copy the device serial number and IMEI code onto paper. Place this cheat sheet with documents that you do not need every day (birth certificates, marriage certificates, education certificates) so as not to lose everything at once. You can find out the IMEI code by typing the combination *#06# . If you lose your gadget, this cheat sheet will serve you well in your search, including through checkimei. ru.

IMEI(International Mobile Equipment Identity) stands for “international mobile equipment identifier” - it is a unique number that is assigned to each mobile phone, as well as some satellite phones. It is usually printed on the battery compartment of the device. It can also be displayed on the screen by entering the sequence from the keyboard *#06# . It is impossible to change the IMEI of a modern phone without reprogramming the microcircuits or replacing them, since this identifier is usually hardwired into the ROM chip.

The IMEI identifier is used in GSM networks to identify devices operating on the network, and therefore it can be used to track a stolen cell phone and block its access to the network. For example, if the owner of a stolen phone reports the theft to his mobile operator and asks you to add the device to the “black list” by IMEI number, then for this and some other networks the phone will become absolutely useless, and it does not matter whether the SIM card installed in the phone has been changed.

IMEI is used only to identify the device from which the network is accessed; it does not in any way relate to the owner of the device. The owner is determined using another number - IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity - international subscriber identifier), which is stored in the SIM card. Theoretically, the IMSI identifier can be forged and used with any phone, but many cellular networks have protection, for example, this identifier is sent very rarely during a communication session to avoid its interception.

The IMEI usually contains 15 digits. The first eight digits are the TAC ID, with the first two digits in this TAC code indicating the country. The next six digits indicate the serial number of the device, and the last, 15th digit is a control digit, with its help the correctness of all digits is checked using the Luhn algorithm.

The Luhn algorithm is used to check checksum IMEI identifier, it allows you to identify all single errors and almost all permutations of neighboring numbers. The only exceptions are the numbers 9 and 0, located in adjacent positions; their rearrangement is not detected by the algorithm (for example, if you rearrange adjacent numbers 90 and 09, this will not be detected).

Let's look at an example of checking the correctness of the IMEI identifier 359223015426526, containing 15 digits:

1. We discard the rightmost check digit - 14 digits remain: 35922301542652
2. Counting from right to left, we sum up all the numbers located in even positions - second, fourth, sixth, etc. –3 5 9 2 2 3 0 1 5 4 2 6 5 2
3+9+2+0+5+2+5 = 26
3. All numbers less than five, located in odd positions, should be multiplied by two and added together, and if the number is greater than four, then when multiplied by two, the number nine should be subtracted from the result:
5*2-9+2*2+3*2+1*2+4*2+6*2-9+2*2 = 28
4. Let’s sum up the results: 26+28 = 54
5. Divide the resulting number modulo by ten: 54 mod 10 = 4
6. If the result is zero, then the result is equal to zero, but if the resulting number is greater than zero, then subtract this number from ten: 10 – 4 = 6.

In this example, we received the number 6, which is equal to the check number, therefore the IMEI identifier numbers are correct.

When discussing phones, smartphones or other mobile devices, the term IMEI often comes up. In many materials, the authors recommend checking or changing IMEI, while explaining what it is. Now we will try to close this knowledge gap by telling you what IMEI is on a phone and what it is needed for.

IMEI is a unique number that is issued to any mobile equipment operating in such mobile networks like GSM, IDEN or . For example, mobile phones receive this number satellite phones, smartphones, tablets and laptops with support mobile internet, 3G modems and other similar devices. The number of IMEI received corresponds to the number of SIM cards that can work with this device. For example, if a phone supports two SIM cards, then it receives two IMEIs.

The abbreviation IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity, which can be translated into Russian as an international mobile equipment identifier. Manufacturers of phones and other mobile devices receive these identifiers from special international organizations that are authorized to issue them. For example, such identifiers are issued by BABT (British Approvals Board for Telecommunications). In the future, manufacturers distribute the received identifiers to specific phones that they produce, thus achieving the uniqueness of each IMEI.

As for the IMEI structure, it consists of 14 or 16 digits (in this case it is called IMEISV). The first 8 digits indicate the phone model and its origin, the remaining digits include the manufacturer-specified serial number and check number. In the case of IMEISV, which consists of 16 digits, the software version is also indicated.

What is the IMEI of a phone for?

As already mentioned, IMEI is a unique phone number, so it is convenient to use it to identify phones in the mobile operator’s network. Your mobile operator can use your IMEI to identify your phone model, as well as which communication technologies it supports. This also allows mobile operators blacklist the phone and no longer service it.

Due to its uniqueness, IMEI can be used to track a phone even if its owner changes SIM cards. In addition, IMEI can be used by customs officers to determine the legality of the phone.

It should be noted that IMEI is the identifier of the phone, not its subscriber. To identify a subscriber in mobile networks, another unique international number, which is called IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity) and is recorded on SIM card user.

How to find out the IMEI of a phone

After assigning an IMEI to a phone, it is recorded in several ways that duplicate each other. Any of these methods can be used to find out the IMEI of a phone.

Firstly, IMEI is written into the phone’s firmware, that is, into its software. This information can be obtained at any time by request. *#06# , which must be typed on the device keyboard. Code *#06# works equally well on both push-button phones, and on modern smartphones with touch screens.

After entering this code, the IMEI that was assigned immediately appears on the screen this phone. If several IMEIs have been assigned to the phone, then all of them will appear on the screen at once.

Secondly, the IMEI is indicated on the phone itself, usually on a special sticker located under the battery. And thirdly, IMEI is always indicated in warranty documents and on the phone box. Thus, the user always has several ways to view the IMEI of his phone.

Is it possible to change IMEI

In older phone models, IMEI was changed quite simply. In particular, this could be done using a terminal program and several commands. But now everything is much more complicated, because manufacturers are increasingly recording IMEI in a special memory area that cannot be rewritten programmatically.

However, it is still possible to change the IMEI on some phones. For example, this is done through engineering menu device or using getting ROOT right (if it is Android smartphone). If you need to change the IMEI on your phone, then you need to look for information specific to your device. There are simply no universal instructions for changing IMEI that would work on any device.

It should be noted that in some countries changing IMEI is prohibited and is a criminal offense. Therefore, before doing something like this, you need to check whether it will violate the laws of your country.

How to find out your phone model by IMEI

If you know the IMEI of the phone, then you can find out its model, technical specifications, production date, and country of origin. To obtain this information, you just need to go to one of the sites that have a database and enter your IMEI there. For example, you can search for information on sites such as.

Do you know what a smartphone serial number is? We will tell you below how to find out where it is and how to change it.

What is a phone IMEI: (from English International Mobile Equipment Identity) - unique international code, which is assigned to all mobile gadgets. It represents a 15-digit number. Have a mob. devices, as well as tablets and satellite devices.

An identifier is assigned to a gadget only by special organizations. Previously, using pirated methods, it was discovered that the number can be changed using programs on a PC. However, in some regions these manipulations are considered criminal offenses.

Now it is not considered possible to reprogram the number; it is securely sewn into the microcircuit at the manufacturing plant and can only be “opened” with special equipment.

What is it for? The number is required for mobile identification. devices on the network. If the phone simultaneously operates with several SIM cards, then a number is assigned to each. You will need this in case your gadget is stolen.

Knowing it, you can block the device if lost. Now the device is blacklisted by all network operators. And even if the SIM card is changed, attackers will not be able to use it.

You can also use Imei to determine the location of its owner. So, you can easily find a lost device.

If we talk about the structure, then imei consists of 14 digits, imei sv - of 16. Using the first numbers, you can determine the device model, as well as the country of origin. The remaining numeric values ​​display the serial number and check number. Have SV indicates the version of the current software.

Where to find it

The numerical value can be found in different ways:

What can you find out from your phone's IMEI?

On certain sites you can enter a number and find out the following data:

  • see if the device is under warranty;
  • gadget model;
  • color;
  • internal memory volume;
  • whether the device is stolen/lost;
  • if the gadget is under warranty, the expiration date of the warranty period.

What is IMEI SV

Imei sv is an addition to the imei code used when recording billing data. SV stands for Software version. Its main difference from having an additional 2 digits.

Components of IMEI8 SV:

  1. TAC is a type of location code. Its length is 8 numbers.
  2. SNR – serial number. The length of the value is 6 numbers.
  3. SVN – software version number. 2 numbers.

The first part is used to characterize the gadget model and developer. The second determines the serial number of the device, the third is assigned by the developer for the order sequence.

SVN number=99. When flashing a gadget, it needs to be changed. The first components of imei svn must be equal to the number imei (the same numbers).

By default, imei sv 00. This means that the device is new. Then, when registering online, the code will change automatically.

Is it possible to change IMEI

Outdated models of devices could easily be changed. This was done through a terminal program and by entering a couple of commands. Currently, manufacturers have begun to “hide” the number more carefully, so the change procedure is becoming more difficult.

The number embedded in the device itself cannot be changed using the program. However, there are still models of gadgets where you can still change them. This can be done by “hacking” the device and obtaining super user rights, as well as through the developer menu.

The change process is different for each device model. There is no universal instruction. Before the actual procedure for changing imei, be sure to clarify how legal your actions are.

Many smartphone users have come across the abbreviation IMEI and a long set of numbers. They collided and, most likely, passed by. Indeed, you never know how many sets of numbers are associated with a mobile device. Is it worth paying attention to them?

In the case of IMEI, perhaps it’s worth it. The fact is that this number is a unique identifier that is assigned to each smartphone. And it serves several extremely useful purposes. In our article we will tell you how to find out the IMEI of a phone and what it is needed for.

What is IMEI

IMEI (from English International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit international identifier for mobile gadgets. Essentially, this is a serial number that is determined by the operator when the phone is connected. The IMEI number stands for this:

  • The first 6 numbers are encoding according to the international Type Approval Code classifier for a specific mobile device model. Here the first two digits are the code of the country of origin;
  • The next 2 numbers are the code of the country where the final assembly of the gadget was made;
  • 6 numbers – unique serial number of the phone;
  • The last digit is the reserve number.

Please note that a dual-SIM phone will be marked with two IMEI numbers, for each SIM card slot.

What is the phone IMEI used for:

  1. Using IMEI, you can obtain complete information about the device at the purchase stage by correlating the identifier contained in the gadget’s system with the one printed on the mobile phone’s body.
  2. Through IMEI you can recognize a stolen or lost phone and return it to the owner.
  3. When making a call from a phone, the telecom operator determines the IMEI and, accordingly, calculates the location of the gadget. Therefore, through IMEI you can monitor a mobile phone or find a lost phone.
  4. Having found out the IMEI, the operator can block the phone if it falls into the hands of criminals.
  5. IMEI code is a manufacturer’s guarantee in terms of build quality and safety for the user.

How to find out the IMEI code of a phone

In order to determine the mobile device identifier, there are 4 simple ways available to any user:

Method 1. Through a number combination on the keyboard

Open the numeric keypad on your phone and dial *#06#. After this, the IMEI will appear on the screen.

Method 2. Look inside the phone case

If the phone has a removable battery, you can find out the IMEI number by removing the back cover of the mobile phone and removing the battery. Below it will be placed all the information about the phone, including the IMEI number or numbers.

Method 3. Look at the packaging.

A sticker with the IMEI number is placed on the box with the phone. In addition, the identifier is indicated in the device’s warranty card upon purchase. It is very important that the IMEI numbers on the packaging and on the coupon exactly match each other.

Method 4. View in phone settings

The IMEI number must be entered in the information list, which can be accessed through the gadget menu:

  • Open settings;
  • Find the “About phone” section;
  • Click on “General Information”;
  • Go to the “IMEI code data” item.

Why Fly

As can be seen from the illustrations, when preparing material on how to find IMEI, we were helped by the products of the British company Fly. We chose smartphones from this brand for affordability, performance and reliability, which is confirmed by grateful user reviews


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