Find Your iPhone's IMEI Number Guide

What Is an IMEI Number and Why It Matters

An IMEI number is a unique 15-digit code that identifies your iPhone on cellular networks worldwide. IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. Think of it like a fingerprint for your phone—no two devices share the same IMEI number. This identifier is built into your device's hardware and is separate from your phone number or SIM card.

Your IMEI number serves several important functions. When you call or text someone, your carrier uses this number to route your communications through their network. If your iPhone is lost or stolen, the IMEI can be used to block the device from connecting to cellular networks, making it much less valuable to thieves. Insurance companies often request this number when you file a claim for a damaged or missing device. Additionally, if you're traveling internationally or switching carriers, you may need your IMEI to ensure your phone will work on different networks.

The IMEI number also helps manufacturers track devices for warranty purposes. If you contact Apple support about a hardware problem, they may ask for your IMEI to look up your device's history and determine what repairs or replacements might be covered. Carriers use IMEI numbers to manage their networks and identify which devices are compatible with their service plans.

Understanding your IMEI number is valuable because you'll have this information readily available when you need it. Whether you're dealing with carrier issues, insurance matters, or technical support, knowing where to find this number and what it represents saves you time and confusion.

Practical takeaway: Your IMEI is a permanent, unique identifier for your specific iPhone that stays the same throughout the device's life, even if you change carriers, phone numbers, or SIM cards.

Finding Your IMEI Through Your iPhone Settings

The most straightforward way to locate your IMEI number is through your iPhone's built-in settings menu. This method works on all iPhone models and requires no special tools or applications. The process takes just a few steps and can be done in under a minute.

Start by opening the Settings app on your iPhone. Look for the gray icon with white gears that typically appears on your home screen. Once the Settings app opens, scroll down and tap on "General." In the General menu, you'll see several options listed vertically. Continue scrolling down until you find "About." Tap on this option, and your device information will display on screen.

Within the About section, you'll see a list of specifications about your iPhone, including the model name, storage capacity, iOS version, and more. Scroll down through this list until you locate the line labeled "IMEI." The 15-digit number displayed next to this label is your device's IMEI. You can take a screenshot of this information for your records, or write the number down in a safe place like a document on your computer or a notebook you keep at home.

This method works identically across iPhone models from the iPhone 6 through the latest models. The Settings app interface may look slightly different depending on which version of iOS your phone runs, but the "Settings > General > About" path remains consistent. If you're having trouble finding the About section, use the search feature at the top of the Settings menu—simply type "IMEI" and the system will show you where to find it.

Practical takeaway: You can find your IMEI in about 30 seconds by going to Settings > General > About and scrolling to the IMEI line.

Using Dial Codes to Retrieve Your IMEI Number

Another method to find your IMEI involves using a special dial code on your iPhone's phone app. This technique dates back to older mobile phones and still works on iPhones today. It's useful if you prefer not to navigate through settings menus or if you want a quick way to view the number on your screen.

Open the Phone app on your iPhone—this is the green icon with a white telephone symbol. Tap the keypad button at the bottom of the screen to bring up the number pad. On this keypad, enter the code *#06# (that's asterisk, pound sign, zero, six, pound sign). Once you've entered this code, press the Call button or wait a moment—your IMEI number will appear on your screen automatically.

The system displays your IMEI number in a small pop-up window or notification. Write down the complete 15-digit number or take a screenshot for your records. This method works because the *#06# code is recognized by cellular networks as a request for device identification information. When you enter it, your iPhone communicates with the network to display your IMEI.

One advantage of this method is speed. If you need your IMEI quickly and don't want to navigate through multiple menu screens, dialing the code takes only a few seconds. This technique also works on most other types of mobile phones, though the format may differ slightly. Some older phones display additional information alongside the IMEI, but on iPhones, the code specifically returns your IMEI number.

It's worth noting that this dial code doesn't actually call anyone or send any information to your carrier. It simply triggers your phone to display its stored identification number locally on your device. Your phone number and service are not affected by entering this code.

Practical takeaway: You can view your IMEI by opening the Phone app, tapping the keypad, entering *#06#, and pressing Call—the number appears instantly on screen.

Finding Your IMEI on Your iPhone's Physical Body

Your iPhone's IMEI number is also printed physically on your device, typically on the back or side of the phone. This is particularly useful information if your phone won't turn on or if the battery has completely drained. The location of the printed IMEI varies slightly depending on your iPhone model and when it was manufactured.

For most modern iPhones, including iPhone X models and newer, the IMEI is engraved on the back of the phone near the bottom. You'll need to examine the text closely, as the printing is quite small—using a flashlight or bright lamp makes it much easier to read. Look for the sequence of numbers that matches the 15-digit format. The IMEI is usually printed alongside other regulatory information and certifications.

On older iPhone models, particularly those from the iPhone 6 through iPhone 8 series, the IMEI may be printed on the back glass or on the metal frame around the edges of the device. Inspect these areas carefully, as the engraving can be subtle and difficult to see in dim lighting. Some models have the information printed on a label inside the SIM card tray. To access this, you'll need to open your SIM card tray using a SIM ejector tool or a small pin.

The physical IMEI print serves as a permanent record of your device's identity. This can be valuable for insurance documentation or theft reporting, as it provides verification that doesn't depend on your phone's ability to power on or access its software. If you ever lose your iPhone and cannot retrieve the number digitally, you can reference your original packaging, warranty paperwork, or Apple receipts—these documents often include the IMEI information as well.

When examining the physical IMEI, make sure you're reading the correct number. Other numbers may appear on the back, including regulatory markings or model numbers. The IMEI is typically clearly labeled with the word "IMEI" or sometimes just the letters IMEI appearing above or below the 15-digit sequence.

Practical takeaway: Your IMEI is engraved on your iPhone's back or SIM tray, providing a permanent reference that works even if your phone won't turn on.

Locating Your IMEI on Original Documents and Packaging

When you purchase a new iPhone, several original documents contain your device's IMEI number. Keeping these papers organized provides a backup reference that's easy to access when you need it. This documentation is especially valuable for warranty claims, insurance purposes, or if you need to reference your IMEI without handling your phone.

Your original iPhone box typically includes a label with device information. Check the back or side of the box—you'll usually find a barcode along with text displaying your IMEI number. This label was printed during manufacturing and contains information that matches your specific device. If you still have your original box in storage, this is one of the quickest ways to locate your IMEI without even opening it.