Xiaomi IMEI: Complete ways of identifying

Every user of a Xiaomi, Redmi or Poco smartphone sooner or later faces the need to find a unique identifier for their device. This code, known as IMEI, is a digital passport of the phone, without which normal operation in cellular networks is impossible. Knowing exactly where it is located and how to quickly copy it can save in situations of theft, loss of a gadget or the need to flash it.

There are many ways to get this data, from simple software methods to learning physical labeling. In today's digital security environment, it's important not just to know the code, but also to be able to authenticate it. IMEI is 15 digits long and unique to each individual device, even if the models are completely identical. Let's go through all the search options available.

In this article, we will take a closer look at software methods through the MIUI interface, the use of engineering codes, and the physical locations where you apply the markings, and understanding these nuances will help you secure your property and solve technical problems with a carrier or service center faster.

Search for IMEI through MIUI system settings

The most obvious and affordable way to find out the ID number is to look at the menu of the smartphone itself. The interface of the MIUI shell or HyperOS provides convenient access to technical information. You do not need an Internet connection or special skills, just unlock the screen.

To start, go to the Settings section, which is usually indicated by a gear. Next, scroll down and select About Phone. In the menu that opens, you will see all the basic information about your device, including the model, the Android version and, of course, the numbers you want.

In some versions of firmware, data can be hidden behind an additional button. If you don't see the number right away, click on All settings or Details. It will indicate IMEI 1 and, if you have two SIM cards, IMEI 2.

• 📱 Open the main menu and find the Settings icon".
• 📄 Select the "About Phone" section at the bottom or top of the list.
• 🔍 Click All Settings if the number does not appear on the first screen.
• 💾 Copy the data with a long press or take a screenshot of the screen.

⚠️ Warning: When selling a used phone, hide this section in screenshots so that scammers can’t clone your device ID.

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Save a screenshot of the About Phone section to the cloud or send yourself to the messenger – this is the fastest way to have access to the code, even if the phone runs out.

Use of universality USSD-code

The engineering method of obtaining data works on any phone, regardless of the version of the operating system or the status of the menu, it is a “concrete” method that will work even if the screen is partially non-responsive to touch, but the input of characters works.

You need to open the Phone or Calls app, where you usually dial contact numbers. In the input field, type *#06#. Immediately after entering the last character (#), a window with technical information will automatically pop up on the screen.

This method reads data directly from the communication module, so it shows exactly what is sewn into the hardware. If you have a dual-symbol device, you will see two different numbers. For single-symbol models, one code and often an additional SN (serial number) is displayed.

It’s important to note that on some custom firmware or heavily modified versions of Android, the code can be blocked by the manufacturer for security reasons, but on stock Xiaomi and Redmi, it works always.

Physical markings on the body and packaging

If the smartphone is turned off, broken, or not turned on at all, physical media come to the rescue, manufacturers are required to label the device and packaging to pass certification, which is the primary source of truth.

On new Xiaomi devices, the barcode and numerals sticker is usually on the back of the box, showing the model, color, memory capacity, MAC-addresses and two codes IMEI. This information is often duplicated on the protective film pasted on the screen when buying.

As for the case itself, this has changed with the release of new models, which used to be coded under a removable battery.

• 🏷️ On the back cover (if it is plastic and not glass).
• 📦 On the factory box in the lower corner next to the barcode.
• 🧾 In a warranty card or check (if the seller entered the data manually).
• 💳 On the tray for SIM-cards (rarely found on some models).

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The most reliable physical carrier is the original box, as the stickers on the case can be erased or sealed with a cover.

If the numbers on the box, the settings and the check don't match, it's a red flag, maybe the device is made from different parts or has a modified firmware.

Verification through Google Account and Services

Modern smartphones are deeply integrated into the Google ecosystem, and if your Android device has ever been connected to the Internet and logged into your account, it could have been stored in the cloud, and it's a great way to find the code if your phone is lost.

Go from your computer or other device to google.com/android/find. Sign in with the same account as your missing or broken phone. From the list of devices (usually on the left or top), select the model you want.

By clicking on the information icon or going to the Device Library section of the Google Play settings, you can see a list of all gadgets ever included in the Acca, which often lists the model and serial number, and in some cases, the IMEI.

The way to the Google Play menu: Menu → Devices → Select device → Information

Also worth checking out is Mi Account. Go to i.mi.com and log in. Devices can show a tethered phone with specifications, which only works if sync has been enabled.

Specificity of two-symbol models Xiaomi

Xiaomi smartphone owners often use two SIM cards, which are technically implemented two radio modules or one module with support for two lines, so IMEI-There are always two codes. They differ in the last digit.

When registering with the IMEI database or when contacting the police in the event of a theft, you must specify both numbers.

In MIUI, they are designated as IMEI 1 (usually for slot 1) and IMEI 2 (for slot 2). When you call them using the code *#06#, they will also be numbered.

⚠️ Warning: When flashing your phone over Fastboot, make sure the modem (partitions) are not damaged, otherwise both are IMEI Can be dropped to zero (000000...).

If you change the motherboard at a service center, new IMEIs can be written software-based. In legal repairs, wizards rewrite the original codes from the box to a new board to preserve the identity of the device.

What to do if the IMEI is not readable or is zero

So instead of seeing 15 digits, you see zeros or "Null" is critical, which means that the communication software part (NVRAM) is corrupted, most often after a failed flashing or file system failure.

Without the correct ID, the phone won't be able to log in to the operator's network, you'll only be able to call emergency services, or you'll be left without communication at all, even with a SIM card inserted, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can work fine.

Recovery requires:

• 🛠️ Find the backup of the Persist and Modem section (if done before the firmware).
• 🔧 Use engineering software (QPST, QFIL) factory-record.
• 🏥 Contact an authorized Xiaomi service center.

Remember that changing the IMEI to someone else's or random number is illegal in many countries, and it is your original code that is listed on the box that you need to restore.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)