If you need your iPhone IMEI number, you are not alone. This unique identifier is essential for insurance, warranty checks, carrier unlocking, and legal tracking, yet Apple does not display it on the home screen.
The following guide covers reliable ways to locate the IMEI on your device, what to expect in settings and after resets, and how to interpret the results without confusion.
| Method | When to Use | Steps | Visibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Settings | Normal access, no SIM issues | General → About → IMEI | Immediate, no tools |
| About Phone | Quick scroll view | Settings → General → About → IMEI at bottom | Scroll required |
| SIM Card Tray | Physical inspection, no power | Insert SIM ejector tool → tray label | Physical label |
| iTunes or Finder | Computer backup or restore | Connect → device summary → IMEI | Requires computer |
| Apple Support Check | Carrier or insurance verification | Support site →IMEI lookup | Online account |
Find IMEI in Settings
Open Settings on your iPhone and scroll to General, then tap About. Near the top of the About screen, you will see IMEI listed with up to 15 digits used for device identification.
Write down or screenshot the number exactly as shown, ensuring no spaces or formatting interfere with its use for support or unlocking requests.
If your screen is locked, you can still access this path by using Control Center or raising the device to wake the display without fully unlocking.
Check IMEI on the Physical SIM Tray
Remove the SIM tray using the provided ejector tool or a paperclip, and locate a small alphanumeric code printed on the tray itself.
This tray label often includes the IMEI number alongside other identifiers, which can be useful when the phone is off, disabled, or undergoing repair.
Handle the tray carefully and reinsert it firmly to avoid connectivity issues with your cellular connection.
Use iTunes or Finder for IMEI Lookup
Connect your iPhone to a Mac or Windows computer and open Finder or iTunes, depending on your operating system version.
Select your device in the sidebar or device list, and the summary screen will display the IMEI under the Phone Number or Serial Number section.
This method is especially helpful when setting up a new device, restoring from backup, or submitting warranty information to Apple support.
IMEI After Software Reset
Performing a factory reset does not remove the IMEI from the hardware, and the number remains the same once burned into the modem.
After setup, you can retrieve it again through Settings, About, and General, ensuring continuity for account linking and carrier provisioning.
If the IMEI does not appear, update your iOS version or contact Apple Support, as rare firmware issues can temporarily hide the identifier.
Best Practices for IMEI Management
- Save the IMEI in a secure note or password manager for quick access during support calls.
- Verify the IMEI before selling or trading in to ensure the device is not blacklisted.
- Use *#06# as the fastest check when the phone is locked or you cannot open Settings.
- Keep a photo of the SIM tray label as a backup for device identification after resets.
- Report a lost or stolen IMEI to your carrier immediately to prevent unauthorized use.
FAQ
Reader questions
Where can I find my IMEI if Settings is not working?
Check the SIM card tray label, use iTunes or Finder with the device connected, or dial *#06# on the Phone app keypad if the modem is active.
Will the IMEI change after replacing a damaged modem board?
Yes, replacing the modem board can assign a new IMEI unless Apple or an authorized service provider transfers the original number during repair.
Is it safe to share my IMEI number online? Can I track my phone using only the IMEI if it is lost or stolen?
You can report the IMEI to your carrier to block the device on cellular networks, but precise location tracking usually requires additional tools or law enforcement cooperation.