FAQs
Mostly, a mobile phone has only one IMEI number associated with it. However, in dual-SIM phones, you might find two IMEI numbers as theyhave the capability to support two SIM cards. Each SIM card slot is associated with a different IMEI number.
Why is my phone showing two IMEI numbers? ›
Why does my phone have 2 IMEI? If your device has two IMEI numbers then it has two modems for SIM access. If it only has one actual slot for a SIM card then it would have a built in e-SIM in it also. It has two SIM modems for two different networks to be used by the phone.
What is the difference between IMEI 1 and 2? ›
Learn about IMEI 1 & IMEI 2
Pixel phones that can use both eSIM and SIM cards have 2 IMEI numbers, one for each kind of SIM. Learn which Pixel phones use both kinds of SIMs. If you have 2 IMEI numbers, IMEI 1 is usually paired with the first SIM you set up with your phone.
How many IMEI numbers does a phone have? ›
Dual-SIM phones show two IMEI numbers — one for each SIM slot. It is a good idea to write down the mobile device's IMEI number and keep it safe if you need to report it. The IMEI number can also be found in several other places, including Settings and the original packaging.
Why does my phone have two SIMs? ›
Dual SIM models allow you to use two SIM cards in one device. This is handy if you have separate phone numbers for work and home or if you would like to use a local number while keeping your original number active when in a foreign country. What type of SIM cards tray does my device have?
Which IMEI number to use? ›
Devices with Dual SIM card features or a virtual SIM may display two IMEI numbers in the settings. This corresponds to one IMEI per SIM slot and is completely normal. If you're using a single, physical SIM, the first IMEI number should be your focus.
What is the extra IMEI number? ›
A mobile phone has one IMEI number per SIM slot, so if you have a dual SIM phone, it will have two IMEI numbers: IMEI 1 for the first SIM slot and IMEI 2 for the second SIM slot. The IMEI number is a 15-digit code that is always unique which means a dual SIM cell phone has two unique IMEI numbers.
What is the secondary IMEI number? ›
If your phone has two SIM slots, you will see two IMEI numbers in the phone's settings. The IMEI number for the first SIM slot is usually listed as IMEI 1, and the IMEI number for the second SIM slot is usually listed as IMEI 2.
What does the IMEI number tell you? ›
The IMEI number identifies your device and its specifications, such as the model, manufacturer, and software version. This information can be a lifesaver when you need technical support and troubleshooting and you're not able to take it in for repairs in person.
How to check 2nd IMEI number? ›
To find your IMEI 2:
- Turn on DSDS. Learn how to turn on DSDS.
- Open your phone's Settings app.
- Tap About phone.
- Find "IMEI (SIM slot 2)."
No, IMEI is not the same thing as a SIM card but it is tied to the device. Each device has a SIM and an IMEI. The SIM is associated with the network, whereas the IMEI is associated with the device. The SIM is identified by the Integrated Circuit Card Identification (ICCID) number.
What happens if someone knows your IMEI number? ›
Someone can get access or track your live location using your device's IMEI number. Anyone can use your IMEI number and manipulate it to blacklist it from your phone. Hackers can also use your IMEI number to commit fraud or illegal activities and put the blame on you.
How do I know if someone is using dual SIM? ›
If you've noticed new, unfamiliar numbers on caller ID but the same voice responds, they might be using another SIM. Network Fluctuations: Dual-SIM phones often show two signal strength indicators. Notice if there are fluctuations or changes in the network icon(s) on their phone.
Why do I have two IMEI numbers on my Samsung? ›
IMEI numbers are attached to the device not the SIM. It's a dual sim capable device so it has 2 IMEI numbers. Also if the device is eSIM supported then one of the IMEI is also bound to it. So if you use 1 eSIM and 1 SIM then both IMEI are occupied.
Why would someone have an extra SIM card? ›
Users with two SIM cards can connect to two different cellular networks, allowing them to switch between them based on which network provides better coverage or signal strength in their current location.
Which IMEI number to use for exchange? ›
Dial *#06# on the phone that you want to exchange to identify its IMEI number. The IMEI number can also be found inside the battery compartment, in phone settings, or listed on the original packaging. No, you need to enter only one of them into the IMEI number field.
Should my iPhone have two IMEI numbers? ›
Your phone has the capacity to have two eSIMs active at once. There are two IMEI's listed. That doesn't mean you have the second one active. It just means it's available to be activated should you decide to do so.
Can two phones share the same IMEI number? ›
A smartphone's IMEI is like a digital fingerprint: unique to each and every device. It's used by telecom companies to provide network connectivity on a SIM card, and since the IMEI number of two devices cannot be the same, it's also used to track and trace lost devices or criminals.
Where is IMEI 2 on Samsung? ›
You can easily view these numbers directly on the phone or tablet. All you have to do is: Navigate to and open Settings, and then tap About phone or About tablet. The back of your device: The IMEI and serial number are printed in small text on the back of the device near the bottom.