There are many identifiers in the Xiaomi ecosystem that are used for a variety of purposes, from linking an account to unlocking a bootloader. Users are often confused in terms when searching for Device ID, IMEI or Mi Account number. Understanding the difference between these digital fingerprints is critical when buying used equipment or restoring access to the system.
Most often, the need to find a unique number arises when you resell a gadget, when you need to untie it from cloud services, or when you apply for unlocking a bootloader through the official website. A unique identifier serves as a guarantee that you are the owner of a particular device. In this article, we will discuss all ways to obtain this data using both built-in MIUI and HyperOS functions, and special engineering codes.
Don't underestimate the importance of keeping this data safe. In the event of a smartphone loss or theft, these are the numbers that will help prove ownership at a service center or when you go to the police. We've prepared a detailed guide that covers the methods for all modern models, including Redmi and POCO.
Differences between types of identifiers
Before you start searching, you need to be clear about what number you need. Xiaomiβs security system operates with several types of identifiers, and each of them performs its function. An error in determining the type of ID can lead to you filling in the wrong fields in support forms or service centers.
IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is an international mobile hardware identifier that is unique to every device that has a cellular module, and is used by operators to lock stolen phones into their networks. Device ID (or Android ID) is the identifier assigned by the Android operating system when it is first activated, and can change after a full Hard Reset.
Mi Account ID β It's a unique number for your personal account in the Xiaomi ecosystem, not the phone itself. It's used to link your device to the cloud. MAC-The address for network connections is the one that most unblocking and unblocking procedures require. IMEI or ID account-bound.
β οΈ Warning: Never give screenshots of full account details to outsiders.Swindlers can use Mi Account ID Attempting to social engineering or steal personal data from the cloud.
How to get Device ID and IMEI through settings
The simplest and safest method is to use a standard MIUI or HyperOS shell interface, which does not require a connection to a computer and installing additional software. The data in the settings menu is displayed in real time and is current.
For information, go to the Settings menu and scroll to the bottom of the list. Select About Phone. This shows basic information about the model, system version and processor. However, the full data is hidden in the attached menu.
Click on All settings (or Details). In the list that opens, you'll see Status or General Status. This is where IMEI and IMEI2 (for dual-symbol models) are located. To copy a number, you usually just tap the right line, and the system automatically saves the data to the clipboard.
- π± Basic IMEI: The main identifier for the first SIM-The cards are used most often.
- π² IMEI 2: Secondary identifier, only valid if you use two SIM-mapping.
- π Android ID: Operating system ID may be required for some tracker applications.
- π Wi-Fi MAC: Unique network interface address required to configure routers and filter access.
It is important to note that new models with eSIM can be displayed EID (Embedded Identity Document. SIM-If you plan to use a virtual operator, this number will be the main one.
Use of the engineering menu and USSD-code
For speed users, there are codes that trigger a hidden engineering menu, which works even if the touch screen is partially unresponsive, allowing data to be read quickly, and the codes are universal for most Android devices.
Open the Phone app and type *#06#. Immediately after entering the last grille, a pop-up with all the main identifiers will automatically appear on the screen. IMEI, serial number and possibly, MAC-address.
*#06#Some Xiaomi models have an extended test mode available, and you can activate it by entering the code ##6484## or ##4636##. In the CIT (Customer Interactive Test) menu, you can not only view the data, but also test the sensors, vibrations and screen.
βοΈ Checking data in the engineering menu
If standard codes don't work (which happens on custom firmware or in some regions), try entering ##4636## and select Phone Information. There may be a Copy to Clipboard button, which is very convenient for saving long lines.
Search for ID through Mi Account and Cloud Services
If a device is lost or located elsewhere, you can find out its identifier through the web interface of the cloud service, which is ideal for checking the connection of the device to your account before selling or after buying a used gadget.
Go to the official i.mi.com website and log in using your Mi Account. After logging in, go to Find Device, which will show a map and a list of all the gadgets that are currently linked to your profile and have an active Internet connection.
Select the device you want from the list. Detailed information often displays a model and, in some cases, the last 4 digits of the IMEI or the full Device ID that the system uses to track, and it also allows you to remotely lock the device or erase data.
| Type ID | Wherever used | Could it change? |
|---|---|---|
| IMEI | Operator network, police, warranty | No (hardware) |
| Android ID | Applications, advertising, analytics | Yeah (after reset) |
| Serial Number | Service centers, guarantee | No. |
| MAC Address | Wi-Fi routers, local area network | No (but you can switch) |
β οΈ Note: If the cloud displays a device you have already sold, be sure to remove it from the trusted list, otherwise the new owner will not be able to fully use the phone.
Receiving information through ADB and computer
For advanced users and developers, the most accurate information is provided by debugging ADB (Android Debug Bridge), which allows you to access system variables that do not appear in the usual interface.
First, activate Developer Mode. Go to Settings β About Phone and quickly press 7 times on MIUI Version (or OS Version). Then, in advanced settings, enable USB Debugging. Connect your smartphone to your computer with a cable.
Run the command line on your PC and type the following command to get the full list of identifiers:
adb shell service call iphonesubinfo 1Or a more versatile option for getting an Android ID:
adb shell settings get secure android_idWhat to do if your computer canβt see your phone?
The result of the command will be displayed in the terminal. This is the most reliable way to get an accurate Android ID that matches what Google servers and applications see. Be careful when typing commands, since access through ADB gives you extensive rights over the device.
Physical tags and documentation
If the smartphone is not turned on, the screen is broken or the system is not loaded, the only source of information is physical media, and manufacturers are required to apply identifiers to the case and packaging to identify the device.
Carefully inspect the back cover of the smartphone. On many Xiaomi models (especially those with a non-removable battery), the IMEI and S/N sticker is located directly on the case. If the sticker is worn or missing, check the original box.
There's always a barcode sticker on the end of the box, which says device model, color, memory, serial number and IMEI, and it's duplicated in the warranty card and check, which you'd recommend storing electronically.
- π¦ Box: The most reliable source if the sticker on the case is damaged.
- π Under the battery: On older models with removable battery, the sticker is underneath it.
- π Warranty card: An official document certified by the seller's seal contains all the necessary codes.
- π§Ύ Check of purchase: A cashier's check often prints part of the serial number or IMEI.
π‘
Take a picture of the sticker from the box and the check immediately after you buy it, save it in the cloud, and it will save you if the original documents are lost and you need to return the phone under warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I change the IMEI to Xiaomi?
What if the device ID does not match the box?
Why do I need a Device ID to unlock the bootloader?
Does Android ID reset after flashing?
π‘
Always check the IMEI on the box, check and phone menu when buying a device from hand β this is the only way to make sure you are not sold stolen or rebuilt homemade device.