#IMEI NUMBER VS SERIAL NUMBER CODE#

The phone carrier, police, or the authorized manufacturer can use these unique 15-digit numbers to track the devices in an unfortunate case - such as lost or stolen cases. What is an IMEI number used for?Ĭonsider it as your device's fingerprint. This is why you should never pass the IMEI number to third parties. The devices will be completely blocked by the carrier based on this IMEI number. If your device is lost or stolen, in order to report it successfully to the police, you will need to share the IMEI number. Not everyone can remember the 15-digit IMEI (sequence of) number. When do you need an IMEI number?įirstly, you should write down the device's IMEI number and store it in a safe place (ideally, write it down on a piece of paper). They take interest in changing the IMEI of a stolen smartphone (for instance) that can no longer be identified with the manipulation. Thieves subterfuge this option on numerous occasions by utilizing corresponding programs available on Google and Apple app stores. It is possible to bluff an IMEI number with basic programming knowledge, even when the manufacturer is not intending to do so. With this scrutiny and regulatory approval by the TAC, the network can further approve the device (and signal) connection permission. The allocation of a TC by a reporting body is an approved sign that the device, module, or modem has been agreed and equally passed by the relevant regulatory inspection. The IMEI not only identifies the device type but also confirms the model, release year, make, or other specifications of the cellular device. the Typical Allocation Code) is commonly linked with the cellular module or modem (in cellular IoT). Z - acts as digit checker, typically it is 0 for GSM devices How does the network use the IMEI? YYYYYY - identifies the specific cellular deviceĤ.

#IMEI NUMBER VS SERIAL NUMBER CODE#

XXXXXX - the actual Typical Allocation Code (TAC) numbers are represented by this sequence.ģ. WW -sets the reporting body identifier showing the GSMA approved TAC (Typical Allocation Code)Ģ. The typical IMEI arranged sequence could be explained as follow:ġ. The Division of IMEI NumberĪs mentioned before, the IMEI numbers consist of 15 unique numbers with an arranged sequence as WW-XXXXXX-YYYYYY-Z. For your information, the device with two sim card slots will have two globally unique (15-digits) IMEI numbers. IMEI consists of 15-digit numbers that are guaranteed unique and accepted globally. The phone device consisting of a SIM card is recognized by a dedicated IMEI number. The number is assigned by the manufacturer to the cellular device, just like every other piece of equipment, for instant cars. A serial (unique set of) number is dedicated to equipment (inevitably to cellular devices).

What is an IMEI number?Īn IMEI (as mentioned before) stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. Interesting, isn’t it? So without further ado, let’s get started. This unique pair of numbers is used for what principle and what are the secondary uses of it? Today’s guide is a comprehensive version of the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number covering everything that our audience needs to know.

Imei number vs serial number