Knowing your IMEI number can help you get a quick response if your Android or iOS device is stolen. However, as most of us are pretty unprepared when it comes to losing your phone, this guide will help you find your IMEI number without actually having the device on hand. There are several ways to do this and you should be able to find the IMEI of your iOS or Android phone with just a few steps.
Index
- What is an IMEI and why do you need to know it?
- How to find your IMEI without having the device
- Check your Google dashboard for an Android IMEI
- Find the IMEI of your iPhone using iTunes
What is an IMEI and why do you need to know it?
Before we get started, let's clarify a few things about your IMEI number. Basically, your IMEI number (which stands for "international mNoble equipment identity ”) is a unique 15-digit code for each individual mobile broadband device. IMEIs aren't just limited to phones. You can also find them printed on laptops and tablets that have wireless cards installed. One thing is common to all IMEI codes: they are built into the hardware of the device and are almost impossible to change. So why is it useful to know this number?
- Your mobile carrier can block your phone based on IMEI in case it is stolen
- It could be used for warranty reasons
- If you are selling your phone, the buyer may need the IMEI to check with the police if the phone is registered as stolen
How to find your IMEI without having the device
Finding out your IMEI is simple if you have the phone handy, but problems arise if the phone is absent. For this reason, the first thing you should do when buying a new phone is write down the IMEI somewhere and save it.
However, we understand that immediate use of the new smartphone can be tempting, so how do you find an IMEI number without an Android or iOS phone, tablet or laptop in your physical possession?
The easiest way to find your IMEI number is to find the original phone packaging. Most Android and iOS devices come with a sticker attached to the box that lists the IMEI number. Look carefully for the code, as it will not be marked by the package. If there is a 15 digit number on the sticker, that will be what you need.
Unfortunately, not everyone keeps their phone's packaging. If you're the type of person who throws all your packaging or documentation away, that won't help much either, but the IMEI can also be found on the original contract you signed with your phone company. In some cases it will also appear on monthly bills, although this is much less common.
Check your Google dashboard for an Android IMEI
If these simple measures don't work, Android users have another tool at their disposal. Here's how it works.
- Log into your Google account
- Open the Android Device Manager
- Your IMEI number should be displayed along with your registered Android device. With this information, authorities should be able to track down your lost or stolen phone much more quickly and easily.
It is one of the best ways to get the lost / stolen phone IMEI.
Find the IMEI of your iPhone using iTunes
If you've ever synced your iPhone with iTunes, the device data including IMEI should be visible in the iTunes settings.
- Go to iTunes > preferences tab if you are using a Mac or on change > preferences tab on the PC version of iTunes.
- Now, click on the devices button. So, go to the Riepilogo card
- Double click on your phone number. Your IMEI should be visible after the second time.
Losing your smartphone can be a stressful experience, but don't panic. You can easily get a copy of the all-important IMEI code, even if you no longer have access to the real phone. After this is passed on to your phone company and the police, you may be able to quickly track down the device.
Want to have more information on IMEI? Read this article!
15
