Searching for a unique device identifier is often critical when registering a gadget, issuing a warranty card or verifying the authenticity of the device on the manufacturer's official website. Owners of Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO smartphones can face a situation where the box from the device has long been disposed of, and access to system settings is limited or completely absent due to a software failure. Understanding where this information is stored saves time and avoids unnecessary calls to service centers.
Serial number (SN) is a unique alphanumeric sequence assigned to a particular instance of electronics in a factory. Unlike IMEI, which is tied to a communication module, the serial identifier marks the hardware itself and its body. Knowing the exact location of this character combination is necessary to activate the extended Mi Care warranty, verify the status of the device in the database, or correctly fill out forms when returning goods.
In this article, we will look at all the possible methods of obtaining this information, from the most obvious visual methods to hidden engineering menus. We will look at situations when the smartphone screen is not working, and explain the difference between the different types of identifiers so that you can accurately determine exactly what is required for your task.
Search for information on the device body and packaging
The fastest and most reliable way to find out the ID is by physically inspecting the smartphone itself or its original packaging. Xiaomi manufacturers almost always duplicate key data on the label located on the back of the box. This sticker usually contains barcodes, information about color, memory capacity and, of course, the Serial Number you want. If the box is preserved, it makes no sense to look any further.
If there is no packaging, you need to carefully inspect the back of the phone itself. On modern models with glass or plastic backs, information is often laser-engraved in fine print at the bottom of the case. However, many current flagships and budget Redmi products may not have this information on the outside, as the placement of data on the case in some regions is optional.
β οΈ Note: On some global versions of smartphones, the sticker on the back of the case can be removed by the seller before selling, in which case, rely only on the data in the software part or on the box if it is intact.
If there are no obvious signs on the case, it is worth checking the tray for SIM-On some models, especially compact ones, the manufacturer of engraved microscopic code directly on the metal line of the tray, which requires removing the tray with a paper clip and using a magnifying glass or macro photography camera of another phone. This is a rare but possible option for certain modifications.
Verification through the MIUI and HyperOS interface settings
If the device is switched on and the touch screen is functioning correctly, the easiest way to use the standard operating system. MIUI interfaces and the new HyperOS provide convenient access to technical information in several touches, this method is the most preferred, since it eliminates errors when reading small characters from the case.
To get the data, you need to go to the settings menu and select the About Phone section, which displays basic information about the model, OS version and processor, but the full serial number is often hidden in additional subsections to avoid cluttering the main screen.
The algorithm of actions is as follows:
- π± Open the Settings app on the main screen.
- π² Go to About Phone (first item on the list).
- π Find the serial number line or SN; If it is not on the first screen, click on All settings or Version MIUI.
- π Often a few quick presses are required (5-7 once MIUI or "All options" to activate the hidden menu with full data.
In some firmware versions, the serial number can be hidden behind the copy button or only displayed after you enter the unlock password for security reasons. Make sure you copy the SN, not the IMEI, as these are different character sequences. For convenience, you can immediately copy the value to the clipboard by clicking on the corresponding icon next to the numbers.
Use of the USSD-code and engineering menu
When access to the settings menu is difficult or the interface is unstable, system commands come to the rescue. The universal way for all Android smartphones, including Xiaomi, is to use a special device. USSD-This method works even without a cellular operator being connected to the network, because the request is processed locally on the device.
To call the technical information menu, dial the following combination in the "Phone" application (calling):
*#06#After dialing the last bar, the screen automatically opens a pop-up window with technical information. IMEI (each SIM-(a) a serial number designated as a Serial Number or SN. In some models POCO Redmi can look minimalistic, displaying only codes, but the data will be present.
If the standard code didn't work or the window didn't appear, you can try logging into the extended engineering menu, although it is often closed on global firmware. GSM and must be operated on any serviceable device with installed SIM-map or even without it.
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If *#06# does not display SN, try dialing it with a clamped call button or use a third-party app like Device Info HW to read system registry.
Verification through Google Account and Cloud Services
In situations where the phone is lost, broken, or physically inaccessible, but you remember your account information, you can try to find information through Google services. If the device was logged in and synced, the smartphone could automatically register in the list of trusted devices.
This requires you to go to the Google account management page via a browser on your computer or other phone. The Security or Devices section often displays a list of the gadgets you logged in from. Although Google does not always show the full serial number in plain view, it may contain a model and other identification information to help you prove ownership of the device.
If the lost phone had Mi Account and Find Device enabled, the i.mi.com web interface can display full information in the device section, including the serial number tied to your profile, this is only true if the phone has at least once gone online after turning on.
Hardware methods for completely non-working smartphones
When the phone doesn't turn on, the screen is black, and the touchscreen doesn't respond, the software methods become useless, and then you have to rely solely on physical markers. Beyond the box I mentioned, you have to look at the router settings if the phone ever connected to your Wi-Fi network.
In the router admin panel (usually at 192.168.0.1 or 1.1) in the list of connected clients (DHCP Client List) the device may be displayed by model name and in some cases by MAC-The address, though. MAC-The address is not a serial number, it is unique to the network module and can help identify the device in the provider or local network logs if the address is not a serial number. SN It is necessary for highly specialized binding tasks.
If the phone has been in the hands of the service center before, the repair receipt or warranty card may contain a rewritten serial number. Always keep checks and documentation, as they are legal proof of ownership of a particular piece of equipment.
Can I restore the serial number if it is erased?
Table of differences of Xiaomi identifiers
Users often confuse different types of codes, which leads to errors in the completion of warranty forms. It is important to clearly distinguish which parameter is requested in a particular case.
| Parameter | Designation | Length and format | Appointment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serial number. | SN / Serial No | 10-20 characters, letters and numbers | Guarantee, authentication, factory accounting |
| IMEI | IMEI 1 / IMEI 2 | 15 numbers | Identification in cellular networks, blocking in case of theft |
| MAC-address | MAC Address | 12 characters (hex), pairs through: | Identification in local networks Wi-Fi and Bluetooth |
| Android ID | Android ID | 16 characters (hex) | Identification by applications and advertising services |
Note that it is the SN, not the IMEI, that is most often required to activate warranty in authorized Xiaomi service centers. At the same time, it is the IMEI that is needed to lock a stolen phone through a telecom operator.
βοΈ Check before buying used Xiaomi
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I change the serial number to Xiaomi?
What if the serial numbers on the box and on the phone do not match?
Where to find the serial number if the screen is broken?
Is the serial number confidential?
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The serial number is your deviceβs passport, and always store a photo of the box or check with the specified SN in the cloud for quick access in case of loss or theft of the gadget.