Source: Andrew Myrick / Android Central
No matter what phone you're using — whether it's a budget Moto G7 or a $900 Galaxy Note 10+ — it will have an International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number. The IMEI number is a unique identifier that's usually a string of 15 digits, and comes in handy if you're trying to locate a lost or stolen phone.
How can I find my phone's IMEI number?
Should you lose your phone or if it gets stolen, you'll have to furnish law enforcement authorities with the IMEI number so they can locate your device. Carriers rely on IMEI numbers to identify devices registered on their network, and in the event of a lost or stolen phone, they'll be able to blacklist the IMEI to prevent a particular device from being used on their network.
- Open the Settings app on your Android phone.
- Scroll down and tap on About Phone.
Scroll down and you will find the number under IMEI.
Source: Android Central
Another way to find your IMEI, and that's a bit easier, requires nothing more than the Phone app. Here's another way to find your IMEI:
- Open the Phone app on your Android phone.
- From the Dialer, dial
*#06#into the Dialer. Wait for the dialog box to appear.
Source: Android Central
Once you have entered this code, the MEID and any other IMEI numbers will appear on your device. This method is the easiest because it works regardless of what Android device you are using.
In the case of the first method, it's important to note that the IMEI will not be in the same place. For example, with Samsung devices, the IMEI is at the top of the About Phone area, without needing to dive any deeper. But both methods work perfectly to get you the IMEI of your device, if you don't happen to have the original box nearby.
Our top equipment picks
Google's best
Google Pixel 4
Simply take a picture and see the stars
Google's Pixel 4 is one of the more impressive handsets simply because of what the camera is capable of. You can just point your phone at the night sky and take pictures that you never thought you would be able to before. It's truly amazing.
Bigger and beautiful
Samsung Galaxy Note 10+
Everything you could want in a phone and then some
From the big and beautiful display to the fantastic battery life and the three rear-facing camera module, this phone really does everything. And that's not to mention the S Pen and those additional and useful features.
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.
People into rooting and modding should check out these Android phones
If you're looking ahead and know you'll want to change something on your next phone that requires custom software or root access, these phones are the best options.
The best Android phones with expandable storage
Looking for the best phones with expandable storage for all of your movies and music? You've come to the right place.
These Nokia phones deliver clean software and excellent value for money
Right now, Nokia makes some of the best budget and mid-range phones in the market today. That's down to a combination of great hardware and collaboration with Google that allows HMD to offer Android One on all of its devices.
