Glossary → Software & Firmware Terms
What Is an IMEI?
The unique 15-digit identity number assigned to every mobile phone — dial *#06# to find yours.
Definition: IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is the unique 15-digit number that identifies every mobile phone on a global network. No two phones share the same IMEI. It is used by carriers to block stolen phones, by Apple to check Activation Lock status, and by buyers to verify second-hand phones.
How to find your IMEI
Any phone: Dial *#06# — the IMEI appears immediately without a call being made.
iPhone: Settings → General → About → IMEI. Also printed on the SIM tray.
Samsung: Settings → About Phone → Status → IMEI.
Why to check IMEI before buying second-hand
Blacklisted phones: Reported stolen phones are IMEI-blacklisted by carriers — they cannot make calls or use data on any network in Singapore.
iCloud Activation Lock: Check an iPhone’s IMEI on Apple’s coverage checker (checkcoverage.apple.com) — it shows if Activation Lock is active.
Warranty status: Apple and Samsung use IMEI to verify warranty eligibility and service history.
Related terms
→ Activation Lock — check IMEI to detect active Activation Lock before buying
→ Samsung Knox — check Knox status alongside IMEI on Samsung phones
→ Firmware — IMEI is stored in firmware on the baseband chip
Unsure about a second-hand phone?
Bring it to PhoneDoctor — we check IMEI status, Activation Lock, and Knox before you commit to a purchase. Free diagnostics.