Owners of smartphones based on the operating system Android often face the need to identify their device. This may be required when purchasing a new gadget, registering it with service centers, or when verifying the authenticity of the device before selling it. Tracking number or, as it is more often called in the context of mobile devices, a unique identifier (IMEI), is a key parameter that distinguishes your phone from millions of others.
Many users confuse the concepts, believing that The track number is something separate from the serial number or IMEI. In fact, in most cases we are talking about IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity), which is assigned to each communication module. Knowing this code allows you not only to track the location of a lost gadget through special services, but also to block it in case of theft at the telecom operator level.
There are several proven ways to access this information, and they do not require root access or complex software. Below we will analyze in detail the most effective methods, ranging from simple key combinations to system settings, so that you can choose the most convenient option for yourself.
Using engineering code for a quick search
The fastest and most universal way to find out the identification number of your device is to use a special USSD command, which is built into the firmware of almost any phone on Android. This method works even if there is no SIM card installed in the device or it is blocked, since the request is processed at the modem level.
To receive information, you need to open the “Phone” application (dialer) and dial the combination *#06#. Immediately after entering the last character on the screen, a pop-up window will automatically open. It will display IMEI, and in devices with support for two SIM cards - two numbers (IMEI 1 and IMEI 2) corresponding to each slot.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to enter other engineering codes if you are not sure of their purpose. Some combinations may reset the network settings or change the parameters of the radio module, which will lead to unstable communication.
If the message “Invalid MMI code” is displayed on the screen or the window does not appear, this may indicate deep changes in the system or blocking by the operator. In such cases, it is worth using the alternative methods described below. It is also important to note that on some custom firmware the output interface may differ, but the number itself is usually present.
Take a screenshot of the screen with IMEI immediately after it appears so as not to lose numbers if the window closes automatically.
Search for data in Android system settings
If for some reason you enter the code is impossible, all the necessary information can be found in the operating system settings menu. The path to this data may differ slightly depending on the version Android and the manufacturer's shell (for example, MIUI, One UI or ColorOS), but the logic remains the same.
You need to follow the path: go to Settings → About phone (or About device) → General information. In some versions of the system, you need to click on the “Status” item or tap on the model name several times to reveal detailed information. Here you will find not only IMEI, but also the serial number, MAC address of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules.
- 📱 Standard Android: Settings → About phone → All settings → Status.
- 🌌 Samsung One UI: Settings → About device → Software information (or just scroll down).
- 🍚 Xiaomi MIUI/HyperOS: Settings → About phone → All options (scroll down).
- 🔵 Realme/Oppo: Settings → About device → Version (tap on the logo or status item).
The advantage of this method is that it allows you to copy the number to the clipboard with a long press, which eliminates errors when manually entering numbers. This is especially true if you need to register the device on the manufacturer's website or in the Google Find My Device service.
Physical marking and documentation of the device
In situations where the phone is turned off, broken or shows no signs of life, physical storage media remains the only hope. Manufacturers are required to apply unique identifiers to the device body and packaging at the production stage. This is a requirement of international communication standards.
On modern smartphones with a non-removable back cover, information is most often laser engraved on the back panel or pasted in the form of a small label. If your device allows you to remove the battery, then the data you are looking for will be located under it, on the factory sticker. Also, be sure to save the original box and warranty card, where the barcode and numbers are duplicated.
| Search location | Marking type | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Back cover | Engraving or sticker | Only when the phone is turned off |
| Under the battery | Factory label | Only for removable batteries |
| Box (packaging) | Barcode printing | Always (if saved) |
| SIM card tray | Microscopic engraving | Only on some iPhone/iPad models |
It is worth considering that physical stickers may wear off over time, especially if you carry your phone without a case. Engraving is more durable, but difficult to read without good lighting and a magnifying glass. Therefore, a digital copy in the cloud or on a box remains the most reliable option.
Verification through Google account and manufacturer services
Modern ecosystems allow you to manage devices remotely, and linking to an account is a powerful tool for finding information about the gadget. If your phone is turned on and has access to the Internet, you can find its exact model and sometimes even IMEI through the Google services web interface.
Go to the Google account management page from a computer or other device. In the “Security” or “Devices” section, a list of gadgets from which you logged in is often displayed. Although the full IMEI is not always shown there, it helps confirm that the device is online and associated with your profile. For more detailed information, use specialized services, such as Google Find My Device.
Manufacturers also provide their own cloud services that store detailed data about linked devices:
- 🔵 Samsung Find My Mobile: Displays the full IMEI, model and lock status.
- 🌾 Xiaomi Cloud: Allows you to see the status of the device and its unique Mi Account identifier.
- ☁️ Huawei Cloud: Provides access to location data and phone characteristics.
⚠️ Attention: For these methods to work, the phone must be previously registered in the appropriate account and have an active Internet connection. Without preliminary setup, remote access is not possible.
What to do if the phone is not displayed in your account?
If the device is not visible in the list, check whether you are logged in to the same Google account that was used when you first set up the phone. Also make sure that synchronization is enabled on the device and data transfer is not limited by power saving settings.
Specialized applications and ADB commands
For advanced users who need to obtain the most detailed technical information, including modem revision and certification status, there are special utilities. Applications like Phone Info SAM, Device Info HW or AIDA64 read data directly from system files and the registry.
An even more powerful tool is USB debugging (ADB). By connecting your phone to your computer and running the command line, you can get a detailed report. Enter the command:
adb shell service call iphonesubinfo 1This command will return a string with IMEI in hexadecimal format, which sometimes needs to be decoded, but it is the most reliable since it is taken directly from the radio module, bypassing the operating system interface.
Using third-party applications requires caution. Install software only from a trusted store Google Playto avoid leakage of personal data. Some "left" apps may request excessive permissions and transfer your IMEI to third parties.
☑️ Checking via ADB
Why you need to know IMEI and how to use it
Understanding how to find the track of an Android phoneis only the first step. It is much more important to know how to use this data to protect your interests. IMEI is the digital passport of a device, and knowing it provides access to a number of critical security and maintenance functions.
First of all, this number is needed to block a lost phone through a telecom operator. You can file a police report and provide them with the IMEI, after which the device will be blacklisted and rendered useless to an attacker, even if he replaces the SIM card. This code is also used to check the repair history and warranty status when purchasing used equipment.
In addition, knowledge of IMEI helps:
- 🔒 Block access to the mobile data and calls remotely.
- 🔍 Check the phone for debts from previous owners (relevant for some countries).
- 🛠️ Get accurate technical support at the service center.
⚠️ Attention: Never publish your IMEI in open sources, social networks or forums. Knowing this number, scammers can clone it to another phone, which will lead to the operator blocking your device due to “duplication.”
IMEI is the main key to the security of your device. Keep it in a safe place separate from the phone itself.
Is it possible to change IMEI on Android?
Technically, it is possible to change IMEI, but this requires root access and the use of special software. However, in most countries (including the Russian Federation and EU countries), changing IMEI is illegal and is punishable by a fine. In addition, incorrect flashing can permanently disable the communication module.
What to do if the IMEI is unreadable or equal to zero?
If instead of numbers you see zeros or emptiness, this indicates damage to the modem software (NVRAM) or hardware failure of the motherboard. In this case, you need to contact an authorized service center for flashing or repair.
Does IMEI differ from the serial number?
Yes, these are different identifiers. A serial number (S/N) is assigned by the manufacturer to a specific device for accounting at the factory. IMEI is issued by an international association and is needed exclusively for working in cellular networks. One device may have one S/N, but two IMEI (for two SIM cards).
How to check a phone by IMEI for authenticity?
There are many online services (for example, imei.info or official brand websites) where you can enter the code. The system will check the database and report whether the declared model corresponds to real characteristics, whether the device is on the wanted list and whether the warranty is valid.