Uncovering the IMEI or MEID Code on Your Mobile Device Quickly
In today's digital world, the importance of securing your mobile device cannot be overstated. One essential step in safeguarding your device is knowing how to find the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) or Mobile Equipment Identification (MEID) number. This unique identifier is crucial in tracking lost or stolen cell phones.
This article, co-authored by Travis Boylls, a tech writer with over a decade of experience, aims to provide a clear and straightforward guide on locating the IMEI/MEID number on various devices.
For iPhone Users
Apple device owners can find their IMEI number in several ways. The easiest method is to navigate to Settings > General > About on your iPhone or iPad. Alternatively, you can dial *#06# to instantly display the IMEI on your screen. On older iPhones (iPhone 5 to iPhone 6+), the IMEI is engraved on the back of the phone near the bottom or on the SIM card tray. For iPhones in a locked state, the IMEI may be visible on the SIM tray for older models, but not on the latest iPhones.
Android Devices
Android users can typically find their IMEI number by going to Settings > About phone > Status > IMEI information. Dialing *#06# will also instantly display the IMEI on your screen. Some Android devices also print the IMEI on the SIM tray, but this is device dependent.
Computers (Including Macs)
Computers without cellular modules do not have IMEI or MEID numbers. However, for Apple devices with cellular connectivity, such as iPad or MacBook with cellular, the IMEI can be found in Settings > General > About or sometimes on the device's physical SIM tray.
Retrieving the IMEI or MEID Number
The universal dial code #06# works for most mobile phones, including iPhones and Android devices, to display the IMEI instantly. If a phone has an ejectable SIM card tray, the IMEI or MEID number can be found either at the top of the SIM card holder or along the side, printed in tiny letters.
Stolen Phones
If a mobile phone is stolen, it can be taken to the nearest service center of the mobile network to give the IMEI number to staff and have the phone blocked. Most pre-paid and non-contract phones in America and disposable phones throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa do not have IMEI numbers.
Remembering Your IMEI or MEID Number
It is recommended to write down the IMEI number before the phone gets lost or stolen for easy retrieval in case of theft. The IMEI or MEID number can be found in the Finder or iTunes when an iPhone or iPad is connected to a computer, or on the barcode label stuck to the original packaging of the mobile device.
In conclusion, knowing how to find your IMEI or MEID number is an essential step in safeguarding your mobile device. By following this guide, you can ensure that you are well-prepared in the event of a lost or stolen phone.
- To find the IMEI number on smartphones, users can dial *#06# or navigate to the settings menu to access the unique identifier.
- For those who have misplaced their home computer or laptop with cellular connectivity, the IMEI or MEID number can be found in the settings or on the physical SIM tray, if available.
- In the unfortunate event of a stolen smartphone, it is crucial to write down the IMEI number beforehand and take the device to the nearest service center to have it blocked.
