The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number is a critical identifier for mobile devices, used for tracking, warranty claims, and network registration. Knowing where to find the IMEI number, especially for iPhones, is essential for various purposes. This article covers where to find the IMEI number on the phone’s box, general locations for IMEI numbers, and specific methods for iPhones.
Table of Contents
Where Is the IMEI Number on the Box?
The original packaging of a mobile phone, including iPhones, typically includes the IMEI number on a label or sticker. This is a reliable way to find the IMEI without accessing the device itself.
- Location on the Box:
- Check the back or side of the phone’s box for a white or silver sticker.
- The IMEI is usually listed alongside other details like the serial number, model number, and barcode.
- Look for a 15-digit number labeled “IMEI” or “IMEI/MEID.”
- For dual-SIM phones, two IMEI numbers may be listed.
- Tips:
- Keep the box in a safe place for easy access to the IMEI.
- Take a photo of the sticker for future reference.
- If the box is missing, try other methods listed below.
General Locations for IMEI Numbers
Beyond the box, IMEI numbers can be found in several places on or associated with the phone:
- On the Phone’s Body:
- SIM Tray: Many phones, including some iPhones (e.g., iPhone 3G, 4, 4S), have the IMEI printed on the SIM card tray. Eject the tray using a SIM tool and check for the number.
- Back of the Device: Older phones may have the IMEI printed on the back cover or under the battery (for devices with removable batteries).
- In the Phone’s Settings:
- Android: Go to Settings > About Phone > Status > IMEI Information.
- iPhone: Go to Settings > General > About, where the IMEI is listed.
- Dialing Code: Dial *#06# on the phone to display the IMEI on the screen.
- Other Sources:
- Carrier account portals (e.g., Verizon, AT&T).
- Cloud services like iCloud (for iPhones) or Google Find My Device (for Android).
- Purchase receipts, warranty documents, or insurance records.
How to Find an iPhone IMEI Number
For iPhone users, there are several specific methods to locate the IMEI number, whether you have the device, the box, or neither.
1. On the iPhone Itself
- Settings App:
- Open Settings > General > About.
- Scroll to find the IMEI number (15 digits).
- Tap and hold to copy the number if needed.
- Dialing Code:
- Open the Phone app and dial *#06#.
- The IMEI will appear on the screen instantly.
- SIM Tray (Older Models):
- For iPhone models like the 3G, 3GS, 4, or 4S, eject the SIM tray using a SIM tool.
- The IMEI may be engraved on the tray.
2. On the iPhone Box
- Locate the original packaging.
- Check the sticker on the back or side for the IMEI, labeled as “IMEI” or “IMEI/MEID.”
- For iPhones with dual-SIM capability (e.g., iPhone XS, XR, and later), both IMEI numbers may be listed.
3. Through Apple ID or iCloud
- Apple ID Website:
- Visit appleid.apple.com.
- Sign in with the Apple ID linked to the iPhone.
- Go to “Devices,” select the iPhone, and view the IMEI in the device details.
- iCloud Find My iPhone:
- Go to icloud.com/find.
- Select the iPhone from the top menu.
- Click the info (i) icon to display the IMEI.
4. Using iTunes
- Connect the iPhone to a computer with iTunes installed (or use Finder on macOS Catalina and later).
- Select the iPhone in iTunes/Finder.
- Click the “Summary” tab to view the IMEI.
- Alternatively, check past iTunes backups:
- Go to iTunes > Preferences > Devices.
- Right-click the iPhone backup and select “Show in Finder/Explorer” to view device details.
5. Other Sources
- Purchase Receipt: Check the receipt or invoice from the Apple Store or carrier.
- Carrier Portal: Log in to your carrier’s website to view device details.
- Apple Support: Contact Apple Support with proof of ownership to retrieve the IMEI.
Important Notes
- Dual-SIM iPhones: Models like the iPhone XS and later may have two IMEI numbers (one for each SIM or eSIM).
- Security: Avoid sharing your IMEI publicly, as it can be used to track or block your device.
- Lost iPhones: If the iPhone is lost, use iCloud or carrier records to retrieve the IMEI for reporting purposes.
By checking these locations and methods, you can reliably find the IMEI number for your iPhone or any mobile device.
He is a passionate blogger and tech-savvy guy who loves to discover the stuff related to technology and social media. Currently, he is pursuing his graduation from the University of Lahore.