Your iPhone is more than just a sleek, powerful device—it’s also a uniquely identified piece of hardware. Every iPhone has an IMEI number—a 15-digit code that plays a critical role in identifying and securing your device. Whether you’re selling your phone, reporting it stolen, checking warranty status, or unlocking it for another network, you’ll likely need this number at some point.
But many users don’t know where to find it—or even what it really means. In this guide, we’ll demystify the IMEI, explain why it matters, and show you every possible way to locate it on your iPhone, no matter which model you’re using.
By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be a pro at retrieving your IMEI—and you’ll never be caught off guard again when asked for it.
What Is an IMEI Number?
IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. It’s a unique identification number assigned to every mobile device that connects to a cellular network. Think of it as your phone’s fingerprint. No two devices share the same IMEI number.
This number is used by:
- Carriers, to register devices and blacklist stolen phones
- Manufacturers, for tracking and warranty purposes
- Users, to check unlock status, network compatibility, or report theft
It’s incredibly important, especially if your device is lost, stolen, or being resold.
When Do You Need Your iPhone’s IMEI?
You might need your iPhone’s IMEI number for various reasons, such as:
- Unlocking your phone to use it with a different carrier
- Registering it for trade-in or resale
- Checking warranty, support, or AppleCare+ coverage
- Reporting a stolen device to the authorities or your service provider
- Ensuring the device hasn’t been blacklisted or reported lost
- Setting up dual SIM functionality
Clearly, it’s more than just a random number—it’s your iPhone’s official identity in the mobile world.
How to Find the IMEI on iPhone – All Working Methods
Let’s walk through the multiple ways to locate your IMEI number. You don’t need to use all of them—just pick the one that’s most convenient for your situation.
Method 1: Find the IMEI Through the iPhone Settings
This is the most user-friendly method, and it works on all iPhones running iOS.
Steps:
- Open the Settings app
- Scroll down and tap on General
- Tap About
- Scroll until you find IMEI (or IMEI2 if you use dual SIMs)
You’ll see a 15-digit number labeled “IMEI.” You can tap and hold the number to copy it and paste it elsewhere (like a note or message).
This method works whether your iPhone uses a physical SIM, eSIM, or both.
Method 2: Dial a Special Code
You can also use a dialer code to display your IMEI instantly.
Steps:
- Open the Phone app
- Tap the Keypad tab
- Dial
*#06#
As soon as you finish dialing, your iPhone will automatically display the IMEI number (and possibly other IDs like MEID or EID for eSIM).
This is a quick method and works even without Wi-Fi or cellular data.
Method 3: Check the SIM Tray
Some iPhones have the IMEI printed physically on the SIM tray. This applies mostly to older models or select regions.
Steps:
- Use a SIM ejector tool or paperclip to open the SIM tray
- Remove the tray and inspect it under good lighting
- Look for a small line of numbers—the 15-digit IMEI will be engraved
Note: Not all iPhones have the IMEI printed here, especially newer models or those using eSIM only.
Method 4: Look on the Back of the iPhone (Older Models)
If you’re using an older iPhone, like the iPhone 6, iPhone 5s, or iPhone SE (1st gen), you might find the IMEI on the back case.
Just flip your iPhone over and look toward the bottom. It’s usually engraved in small text below “Designed by Apple in California.”
Modern iPhones (iPhone 7 and later) don’t include IMEI on the back due to design changes and water resistance improvements.
Method 5: Use the Original iPhone Box
If you’ve kept your iPhone’s original packaging, it has everything you need.
Steps:
- Find the barcode label on the side or back of the box
- Look for a section labeled IMEI
- Note down the 15-digit number
This is especially helpful if your iPhone is lost or stolen—you can still retrieve the IMEI even if you don’t have the device physically.
Method 6: Check Apple ID Device List
If you’re logged into your Apple ID on another device (like a MacBook, iPad, or second iPhone), you can still find the IMEI remotely.
Steps:
- Go to Settings on the other device
- Tap your name (Apple ID)
- Scroll down to view a list of devices
- Tap on the iPhone in question
- You’ll see the IMEI along with other device info
This is a useful trick when your phone is lost or unavailable, but you still need the IMEI number.
Method 7: Use Finder or iTunes on a Computer
If your iPhone has previously been connected to a Mac or Windows computer, your IMEI can be accessed there.
On Mac (macOS Catalina or later):
- Connect your iPhone to the Mac
- Open Finder
- Select your iPhone under Locations
- Click the General tab
- Click on your phone number, and it will toggle to show the IMEI
On Windows (or macOS Mojave and earlier):
- Open iTunes
- Connect your iPhone
- Click on the device icon
- Under the Summary tab, click your phone number—the IMEI will appear
Tips for Managing Your IMEI Number
Now that you’ve found your IMEI, here are some smart things to do:
1. Write It Down
Store your IMEI somewhere safe, like in your Notes app or a physical notebook. If your phone is lost or stolen, you can report the IMEI to your carrier or police.
2. Use It to Check Your Phone’s Status
Some services allow you to check whether your iPhone is unlocked or blacklisted using the IMEI. This is useful when buying or selling used phones (just avoid shady third-party services).
3. Verify Before Buying a Used iPhone
When purchasing a secondhand iPhone, always ask the seller for the IMEI. You can then verify if the device has been reported lost, stolen, or is still under contract.
What’s the Difference Between IMEI, MEID, and Serial Number?
Let’s clarify:
- IMEI: Used globally to identify GSM and LTE devices (this is what you want)
- MEID: An older format, used mostly in CDMA phones—similar to IMEI
- Serial Number: Identifies your iPhone to Apple, not to the network
If you’re talking to your carrier, always give the IMEI, not the serial number.
What If You Have Two IMEIs?
If your iPhone supports dual SIM (with physical SIM + eSIM or dual eSIM), you may see two IMEI numbers:
- IMEI1: For the first line (usually the primary SIM)
- IMEI2: For the secondary line
You can use either IMEI depending on which line is active or being managed. Make sure you know which one applies before contacting your carrier.
Final Thoughts
Your iPhone’s IMEI number may seem like just a technical code—but it’s actually one of the most important identifiers tied to your device. Knowing how to access it can save you time, protect your data, and help you stay in control of your mobile security.
Whether you’re selling your phone, switching carriers, reporting theft, or just staying informed, having your IMEI handy is a smart move.
Quick Recap – Ways to Get IMEI on iPhone:
- Settings > General > About
- *Dial #06# in Phone app
- Check SIM tray (older models)
- Look at the back of the phone (iPhone 6 or earlier)
- Find it on the iPhone box
- Use another Apple device (via Apple ID)
- Check in Finder or iTunes on your computer
Take a moment to find your IMEI and save it securely. It might just be the small detail that helps you protect or recover your iPhone when you need it most.
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