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10 Tech How-To

How to Find IMEI Number on a Samsung Phone

Guide 10-22472 · Updated · Step by step

Your Samsung phone’s IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is a unique 15-digit code that identifies your device on mobile networks. You may need it when registering your phone, checking warranty status, reporting a stolen device, or unlocking your phone for use with another carrier. This guide shows you several reliable ways to locate the IMEI number on any Samsung Galaxy phone, whether the phone is on, off, or even if the screen is broken.

What You’ll Need

  • Your Samsung phone (for most methods)
  • The phone’s original box (if the phone is inaccessible)
  • Access to a computer or another device (for the Find My Mobile method)

Step-by-Step

Method 1: Using the Phone Dialer (Fastest)

  1. Open the Phone app on your Samsung phone.
  2. Tap the keypad icon at the bottom to bring up the dialer.
  3. Type *#06# exactly as shown. You do not need to press the call button.
  4. A pop-up will appear displaying your IMEI number(s), along with other device identifiers like the serial number. Tap OK to dismiss it.

Method 2: Through Settings (No Dialer Needed)

  1. Unlock your phone and open the Settings app (the gear icon).
  2. Scroll down and tap About phone (on some models it may be listed as “About device” or “About tablet”).
  3. Tap Status information.
  4. Look for the IMEI entry. If your phone supports dual SIM, you will see IMEI 1 and IMEI 2 listed separately.

Method 3: Check the SIM Tray or Back Panel

  1. Power off your phone completely.
  2. Insert the SIM ejector tool (or a paperclip) into the small hole on the SIM tray.
  3. Gently push until the tray pops out, then pull it out.
  4. Look for the IMEI printed on the tray itself. On some models, it is printed on the back of the phone (under the glass) or on a sticker inside the battery compartment (if the battery is removable).

Method 4: Check the Original Box

  1. Locate the retail box your Samsung phone came in.
  2. Look for a white label on the side or bottom of the box.
  3. Find the barcode; the IMEI is usually printed next to it, often labeled “IMEI” or “IMEI1/IMEI2”.

Method 5: Use Samsung Find My Mobile (When Phone is Lost or Screen Broken)

  1. Go to findmymobile.samsung.com on a computer or another device and sign in with your Samsung account.
  2. If you have multiple devices, select your Samsung phone from the list.
  3. Click on the Lock option in the left menu (or the “Lock my screen” icon).
  4. In the pop-up, you will see the IMEI number displayed. You can also click the “+” icon next to it to copy it.

Method 6: Check the Phone’s Label (For Older Models)

  1. Power off the phone.
  2. If the back cover is removable, take it off.
  3. If the battery is removable, remove it.
  4. Look for a sticker underneath the battery or on the phone’s inner frame – the IMEI is often printed there.

Common Mistakes

  • Mistyping the dialer code: Entering *#06# with spaces or a different number (like #06#) will not work. Make sure it is exactly *#06#.
  • Confusing IMEI with MEID or serial number: The IMEI is 15 digits; the serial number (SN) is usually alphanumeric. On some older Sprint or US models, you may see a 14-digit MEID – that is not the IMEI.
  • Looking at the wrong SIM slot: On dual-SIM phones, the SIM tray may have two slots, but only one IMEI is printed on the tray. The second IMEI is usually printed on the other side of the tray or on the phone’s internal label.
  • Assuming the IMEI is on the back of all models: Many newer Samsung phones do not have the IMEI printed on the back; it is only on the SIM tray or in the software.

Tips

  • Write down your IMEI and store it somewhere safe – you may need it if your phone is lost or stolen.
  • If you have a dual-SIM phone, note both IMEI numbers separately; they are tied to different SIM slots.
  • The IMEI is not the same as your phone number or your Samsung account; it is a hardware identifier.
  • When contacting your carrier or Samsung support, they will often ask for the IMEI, so have it ready.
  • You can also find the IMEI by dialing *#06# even if you have no SIM card inserted.

Troubleshooting

  • The dialer code does nothing: Make sure you are in the Phone app’s keypad, not the contacts or recent tabs. If it still doesn’t work, restart your phone and try again. If it still fails, use the Settings method.
  • Settings doesn’t show “Status information”: On older Samsung models (Android 9 or earlier), the path is Settings > About phone > Status. On newer models, it may be under About phone > Status information. If you can’t find it, use the search bar in Settings and type “IMEI”.
  • Phone screen is broken and you can’t unlock it: Use the Find My Mobile method (requires prior Samsung account setup) or check the SIM tray/box. If you have a USB cable, you can also connect the phone to a computer and use Samsung’s Smart Switch software, which may display the IMEI.
  • Find My Mobile doesn’t show the IMEI: Ensure you are signed in with the same Samsung account that was on the phone. If the phone is offline, the IMEI may not display; try again later or use another method.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the IMEI number the same as the serial number?

No. The IMEI is a 15-digit number that identifies the device on mobile networks, while the serial number is a shorter alphanumeric code used by the manufacturer for inventory. They are different.

Can I find the IMEI without turning on the phone?

Yes. You can check the SIM tray, the back of the phone (if printed), the original box, or the label under the battery (on older models).

What if my Samsung phone has two IMEI numbers?

Dual-SIM phones have two IMEI numbers, one for each SIM slot. You can see both by dialing *#06# or in Settings under Status information.

Will dialing *#06# cost anything?

No. It is a free, built-in command that does not make a call or use data.

Can I change my IMEI number?

No. The IMEI is permanently assigned by the manufacturer and cannot be legally changed. Attempting to alter it is illegal in many countries.

Why is my IMEI not showing in Settings?

This is rare, but if it happens, restart your phone and check again. If it still doesn’t show, use the dialer code or check the SIM tray. If the phone is a refurbished or carrier-specific model, the label may be missing – contact Samsung support for help.

Related

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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