How to Find IMEI on Samsung (All Models)
Need to find the IMEI on your Samsung Galaxy phone? This guide covers all methods for finding the IMEI on any Samsung model, from the Galaxy S series to the Z Fold.
Why You Need Your Samsung IMEI
Your Samsung phone's IMEI is a 15-digit number that uniquely identifies your device. You'll need it to:
- Check warranty status through Samsung IMEI check
- Verify if a used Samsung phone is genuine and not blacklisted
- Unlock your phone from a carrier
- Report a lost or stolen device
- Check for Samsung warranty and service history
For general IMEI information, see our guide on how to find IMEI number on any phone.
Method 1: Dial *#06# (Fastest Method)
The quickest way to find the IMEI on any Samsung phone is the universal dial code:
- Open the Phone app
- Go to the Keypad tab
- Dial
*#06# - The IMEI number(s) will appear on screen automatically
For dual-SIM models, both IMEI 1 and IMEI 2 will be displayed. You can take a screenshot to save the number for future reference.
This method works on all Samsung Galaxy models, including the S series, Note series, A series, M series, and Z Fold/Flip series.
Method 2: Check in Settings
You can find the IMEI in your Samsung phone's settings. The exact path may vary slightly depending on your One UI version:
One UI 5/6 (Android 13/14):
- Open Settings
- Scroll down and tap About phone
- The IMEI is displayed directly on this page
- Tap on IMEI information for more details
Older One UI versions:
- Open Settings
- Tap About phone or About device
- Tap Status or Status information
- Tap IMEI information
In the IMEI information section, you'll find the IMEI number, IMEI status, and on some models, the IMEI SV (software version).
Method 3: Check the SIM Tray
On many Samsung Galaxy models, the IMEI is engraved or printed on the SIM card tray:
- Use the SIM ejector tool to eject the SIM tray
- Remove the tray from the phone
- Look for the IMEI number engraved on the tray
This method is available on most recent Samsung models, including:
- Galaxy S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, S25 series
- Galaxy Note 20, Note 20 Ultra
- Galaxy Z Fold 3/4/5/6, Z Flip 3/4/5/6
- Galaxy A series (varies by model)
Method 4: Check the Original Packaging
If you have the original Samsung retail box, the IMEI is printed on the barcode label:
- Find the original box
- Look for the barcode label (usually on the side or bottom)
- Find the "IMEI" or "IMEI 1/IMEI 2" field
The packaging IMEI is the most reliable reference. If the IMEI shown in the phone's settings doesn't match the one on the box, the phone may have been tampered with or refurbished with non-original parts.
Method 5: Check Under the Battery (Older Models)
On older Samsung phones with removable batteries, the IMEI is printed on a label under the battery:
- Power off the phone
- Remove the back cover
- Remove the battery
- Look for the IMEI on the label inside the battery compartment
This applies to older models like the Galaxy S3, S4, S5, Note 2, Note 3, Note 4, and older A series and J series phones.
Method 6: Samsung Members App
Samsung's built-in Members app provides detailed device information including the IMEI:
- Open the Samsung Members app (pre-installed on most Galaxy phones)
- Tap on Support
- Tap on Phone diagnostics or Device information
- The IMEI and serial number will be displayed
Method 7: Samsung Account (For Lost Phones)
If your Samsung phone is lost or stolen, you can find its IMEI through your Samsung account:
- Go to samsung.com/us/support on a computer
- Sign in with your Samsung account
- Go to My Products or Registered Devices
- Select your lost phone to view its IMEI
Alternatively, if you had Find My Mobile enabled, visit findmymobile.samsung.com and check your registered devices.
Method 8: Samsung Secret Codes
Samsung phones support several secret dial codes that can reveal IMEI and other device information:
*#06#— Display IMEI number*#1234#— Display firmware version (also shows model information)*#1111#— Display software version*#2222#— Display hardware version
Note: Some secret codes may not work on all models or carrier-locked devices.
Dual SIM IMEI on Samsung Phones
Many Samsung phones support dual SIM functionality (either dual physical SIM or a combination of physical SIM and eSIM). Dual-SIM Samsung phones have two IMEI numbers:
- IMEI 1: Associated with SIM slot 1
- IMEI 2: Associated with SIM slot 2 (or eSIM)
When you dial *#06#, both IMEI numbers are displayed. The first 8 digits (TAC code) are usually the same for both, as they identify the same device model. The difference is in the serial number portion (digits 9-14).
When running a Samsung IMEI check, you can use either IMEI—they both identify the same device. However, if one SIM slot has been blacklisted (e.g., due to unpaid bills on one line), you should check both IMEI numbers.
What If *#06# Shows "Null" or "Unknown"?
If dialing *#06# shows "null," "unknown," or an empty field, this indicates a problem with the phone's EFS (Encrypted File System) partition, which stores IMEI data. This can happen due to:
- Flashing custom ROMs or firmware
- Failed software updates
- Hardware damage to the modem chip
- IMEI tampering or repair attempts
If this happens, check the original packaging for the correct IMEI. You'll likely need to visit a Samsung service center to restore the IMEI. Note that a phone with a null IMEI cannot connect to any cellular network.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
When dealing with 教程-related matters, you may encounter these common issues:
Issue 1: Inaccurate or Missing Query Results
Possible causes and solutions:
- Database update delay: GSMA and carrier databases may have a 24-48 hour update delay. Try querying again later.
- IMEI input errors: Ensure you enter the 15-digit numeric IMEI without spaces, letters, or special characters.
- New device models: Recently released models may not yet be in all databases, resulting in limited information.
Issue 2: Inconsistent Results Across Platforms
Different IMEI checking platforms use different data sources (GSMA, carrier databases, manufacturer databases), which may yield varying levels of detail. Recommendations:
- Use GSMA database results as the authoritative source for model identification
- Use carrier database results for blacklist status verification
- Use manufacturer official results for warranty status
- Cross-reference multiple data sources for comprehensive assessment
Issue 3: Abnormal Status in Results
If query results show "unknown" or abnormal status, it may indicate:
- The device may be a grey-market or refurbished phone from unofficial channels
- The IMEI may have been tampered with or cloned (common in counterfeit phones)
- The device is from a different region not covered by local databases
Real-World Case Studies
Case 1: Avoiding a Blacklisted Phone Purchase
A consumer found a phone priced significantly below market value on a secondhand marketplace. Before purchasing, they used IMEICheck to verify the IMEI and discovered the device was blacklisted due to unpaid carrier bills. The query helped the consumer avoid financial loss.
Case 2: Identifying a Counterfeit Phone
A user purchased a phone that looked nearly identical to the genuine product but noticed performance issues. An IMEI check revealed that the IMEI number corresponded to a different model than what was labeled on the phone, confirming it was a counterfeit using a cloned IMEI.
Advanced Knowledge
Understanding these advanced concepts will help you better understand 教程-related topics:
IMEI Number Structure
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) consists of 15 digits divided into three parts:
- TAC code (first 8 digits): Type Allocation Code, identifying the device model and allocator
- SNR code (middle 6 digits): Serial number, identifying the specific device
- Check digit (last digit): Validates the IMEI number's legitimacy
The TAC code precisely identifies the phone's brand, model, and production batch. GSMA manages all legitimate TAC codes globally.
IMEI and Phone Security
The IMEI serves as a phone's "ID number" and plays a crucial role in:
- Anti-theft protection: When a phone is stolen, carriers can blacklist the IMEI to prevent network access
- Authenticity verification: Genuine phones have IMEI records in the GSMA database; counterfeits often use cloned or invalid IMEIs
- Warranty verification: Manufacturers use IMEI to check activation date and warranty status
- Used phone transactions: Buyers verify the device isn't blacklisted via IMEI
Practical Tips and Precautions
Here are practical recommendations regarding 教程:
- Backup your IMEI: Record your phone's IMEI in a safe place for future reference
- Always check before buying: Whether new or used, verify the device status via IMEI before purchase
- Keep purchase receipts: Purchase receipts and warranty cards are important for consumer protection
- Protect your privacy: Don't enter your IMEI on untrusted websites; choose reputable checking platforms
- Understand regional differences: IMEI registration and blacklist rules may vary by country
Important Note
IMEI checking is an important tool for safe phone transactions, but it's not the only one. Combine IMEI verification with physical inspection, function testing, and account verification for comprehensive device assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Samsung IMEI located?
Samsung IMEI can be found by dialing *#06#, in Settings > About Phone > Status Information > IMEI, on the SIM tray (some models), on the original packaging barcode label, or in Samsung Members app. On older Samsung phones, the IMEI may also be printed under the removable battery.
What if *#06# doesn't work on Samsung?
If *#06# doesn't display the IMEI, try Settings > About Phone > Status > IMEI. If that also fails, the phone may have a corrupted EFS partition (which stores IMEI data). This can happen after flashing custom firmware. In this case, the IMEI may show as "null" or "unknown," and you should contact Samsung service or use the packaging to find the original IMEI.
Where is IMEI on Samsung box?
The IMEI is printed on the original Samsung packaging on the barcode label, typically on the side or bottom of the box. It is listed as "IMEI" or "IMEI1/IMEI2" for dual-SIM models. This is the most reliable way to verify the original IMEI if you suspect the phone has been tampered with.
How to distinguish dual SIM IMEIs on Samsung?
Dual-SIM Samsung phones have two IMEI numbers: IMEI1 for the first SIM slot and IMEI2 for the second. When you dial *#06#, both numbers are displayed. In Settings, both are listed under Status Information. The IMEIs differ by the last few digits, as each SIM slot has its own unique identifier.
What does the TAC code in IMEI results mean?
The TAC code (Type Allocation Code) is the first 8 digits of the IMEI, representing the device model and allocation. It precisely identifies the phone's model, manufacturing origin, and production batch. The GSMA database records all legitimate TAC-to-model mappings.
Can a blacklisted phone be unblacklisted?
Yes, but only under certain conditions: if blacklisted due to unpaid bills, paying the balance may allow removal; if reported lost and then found, you can apply for removal with proof of purchase and ID. However, phones blacklisted for fraud or theft typically cannot be unblacklisted. Contact your carrier for specific removal procedures.
How to identify a fake phone?
IMEI checking is one of the most reliable methods. Genuine phones have IMEI records in the GSMA database, and the queried model should match what's shown in phone settings. Clone phones often use copied IMEI numbers, which may show mismatched model information. Also verify that hardware specs (CPU, RAM, screen resolution) match official parameters.
How long does an IMEI check for 教程 take?
Basic IMEI checks (model identification, blacklist check) typically return results within seconds. Detailed reports (including warranty status, carrier lock, activation date) may take 30 seconds to several minutes, depending on data source response times. IMEICheck aggregates information from multiple databases.
Conclusion
Finding the IMEI on a Samsung phone is straightforward—whether you use the dial code, check Settings, look at the SIM tray, or find it on the packaging. The *#06# dial code is always the fastest method. For dual-SIM models, remember that there are two IMEI numbers, one for each SIM slot. Always keep a record of your IMEI in a safe place for warranty claims, insurance, and lost/stolen reports.
Once you have your IMEI, run a comprehensive check at IMEICheck Samsung Check to verify your device's warranty, carrier status, and blacklist.
