How to Find Your iPhone IMEI Number: Why It's Crucial
Lost your iPhone. Stolen. Or you want to check if that secondhand iPhone you've been eyeing hasn't been stolen? Then you need that IMEI number . Now. But where is that thing again? In your settings, on the SIM card tray, somewhere online? You're frantically searching through menus and options.
Finding your IMEI number is actually surprisingly simple—if you know where to look. The funny thing is: most iPhone owners carry this crucial number around for years without ever writing it down. Yet, it can save you in seconds in the event of theft, warranty checks, or buying compatible accessories that perfectly fit your model. It can even help you check if your AirPods are paired with the correct device. Time to discover those five simple ways.
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What exactly is an IMEI number?
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is your iPhone's digital passport. This unique 15-digit number identifies your device worldwide. Just as no two people have the same fingerprint, every mobile phone has its own IMEI code.
This number plays a crucial role in various situations. In the event of theft, your provider can immediately block the device using this number. It's also essential for warranty checks. Looking to buy a used device? Use the IMEI number to check if the device hasn't been registered as stolen.
Five ways to find your IMEI number
1. Through your iPhone's settings
The fastest method works directly on your device:
- Open 'Settings' (the gear icon)
- Tap 'General'
- Select 'Info'
- Scroll down until you see the IMEI number
- Hold your finger on the number to copy it
This method works on all iPhone models from the iPhone 6s up to and including the latest iPhone 14 series. The advantage: you don't need a computer, and the number is instantly saved to your clipboard.
2. On the SIM card holder
For a physical check, you can examine the SIM card tray. On iPhone models from the 6s Plus up to and including the iPhone 14, the IMEI number is often engraved on this part. Carefully pull the tray out of your device using the included pin. The number is printed in small letters on the side.
This method is useful when your iPhone no longer turns on or when you want to sell the device without turning it on.
3. On the back of older models
Do you own an older model? Some iPhones have the serial number printed directly on the casing. This is especially true for devices from before 2015. Check the back near the bottom of the device. The letters are small, so good lighting is essential.
4. Via Finder or iTunes on your computer
Your computer offers an alternative route:
- Connect your iPhone with a cable
- Open Finder (macOS Catalina or later) or iTunes (older versions)
- Select your device in the sidebar
- Click on the 'General' or 'Overview' tab
- Click on 'Phone number' under the device name
- The IMEI number now appears
This method is ideal if your iPhone's screen is broken but the device still works. It's also useful for administrative purposes where you need to record multiple numbers.
5. Online via your Apple ID
No access to your iPhone? No problem:
- Go to appleid.apple.com
- Log in with your Apple ID
- Scroll to the 'Devices' section
- Click on your iPhone
- The IMEI number is located in the device details
Alternatively, you can go to Settings on another Apple device, tap your name, and view your paired devices there. This works from iOS 10.3 onwards.
Practical applications of your IMEI number
Knowing this number protects your investment. If your device is lost or stolen, you can block it worldwide through your provider. No one will then be able to use it, even with a different SIM card.
For buyers of refurbished devices, the IMEI number is invaluable. Always check that the device isn't blacklisted before paying. Websites like CheckMEND offer this service.
The number is also valuable for technical support. Apple and carriers often request this number for outages or warranty claims. It saves time if you have it readily available.
Tips for safe storage
Record your IMEI number in several places. A photo in your cloud storage, a note in your password manager, and a physical note in your safe. This way, if your phone is stolen, you'll have the number readily available for reporting.
Also take a screenshot of the Info screen in your settings. Save this in a separate folder. This way, you'll have not only the IMEI number but also other important information such as the model number and iOS version at hand.
Never share your IMEI number online. Criminals can misuse it for identity theft or cloning your device. Only share it with trusted parties like your carrier or Apple.
Difference between IMEI, MEID and serial number
Besides the IMEI number, you'll also encounter MEID and serial numbers. The MEID (Mobile Equipment Identifier) is primarily used in North America for CDMA networks. In Europe, IMEI is the primary method.
The serial number identifies your device to the manufacturer. Apple uses it for warranty and repairs. The IMEI number, on the other hand, identifies your device to the cellular network. Both numbers are important but serve different purposes.
Conclusion
Finding your IMEI number takes no more than thirty seconds if you know where to look. Whether you go through the settings, check online, or check the SIM card tray—the options are numerous. Most importantly, write down the number before you need it. Because if your iPhone disappears, it's too late to look for this crucial number.
Find IMEI number: simple but essential
Finding your iPhone's IMEI number isn't rocket science. Whether you're using settings, the SIM card tray, or online, you can find it in half a minute. The real work is writing it down beforehand . Because just when you need it in case of theft or to check a refurbished iPhone , your device is gone.
So write down the number now, keep it safe, and you'll be prepared for what comes next. Those few seconds of investment could save you hours of frustration later.
