How to find out the serial number and IMEI on Xiaomi

Owning a modern gadget requires careful attention to its identification data, especially if we are talking about popular Xiaomi devices. Serial number (SN) and international equipment identifier (IMEI) are the key parameters necessary to activate the warranty, verify the authenticity of the device on the official website or lock the lost device. Often users are faced with the need to enter this data when registering at a service center or when selling a smartphone to confirm its legal origin.

There are many ways to access this information, from simple combinations of numbers on the screen to studying factory packaging. It is important to understand the difference between a serial number that is unique to each particular instance of the device, and IMEI, tied-in SIM-In this article, we will take a detailed look at all available methods, including hidden engineering menus and system files, so that you can easily find the data you need.

And don't ignore the importance of keeping this information safe, and in the event of a stolen or lost smartphone, these are the numbers that will be your main argument in your conversation with law enforcement and your carrier, and let's look at where to find these cherished character combinations on your device.

Use of universal code in the dialer

The fastest and most time-tested way to find out the identification data of any mobile phone is the use of a special device. USSD-On Redmi and Poco smartphones, this method works flawlessly, regardless of the version of the operating system installed. MIUI You don't have to search for settings or connect to the Internet, just open a standard app for calling.

Type *#06# on the keyboard. Immediately after entering the last character, the system automatically opens a pop-up window that will display all the technical information. IMEI each SIM-cards (if there are two) and the serial number of the device, which is often indicated as SN or Serial Number.

⚠️ Note: Do not try to enter other codes from the Internet into the engineering menu unless you are sure of their purpose, as this can lead to resetting important network settings.

The data you get can be copied by pressing the appropriate button on the screen, or simply photographing the display, which is especially useful if you need to send information to a service center, but the device itself is not on hand or is turned off (although for this method the phone must be turned on), a method that is considered standard for all mobile devices in the world.

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Take a screenshot of the screen with IMEI and save it in cloud storage or send yourself to the messenger – this will allow you to access the codes even if the phone is discharged at the wrong time.

It's worth noting that on some modified firmware or very old versions of shells, the pop-up window may look different, but the point remains the same. If the code doesn't work, check if dialing is blocked on the lock screen, and try unlocking the device completely.

Search for information in system settings

If you're not able to use the code for some reason or you're not comfortable, you can always go to system settings. MIUI is structured logically, although the path to the cherished numbers may vary slightly depending on the version of the operating system. This is a good way to not only see but also study the specifications of your device in detail.

To search for data, go to the Settings menu, then select About Phone (or About Phone). In the list that opens, you will immediately see the main parameters. In new versions of the shell, information can be hidden in the All settings subitem or All specs, where you need to scroll down to the Serial Number field.

Interestingly, in this same section, you can often access the full data backup function with a single click, and if you click on a MIUI version or system logo several times in a row, you can get into the extended menu, but we don't need to. You just need to find the serial number string and rewrite it, and you also have the Mi device ID, which is important for unlocking the bootloader, but it's not the serial number.

Sometimes users get confused. MAC-Wi-Fi or Bluetooth address with serial number: MAC-address AA:BB:CC:11:22:33, Whereas the Xiaomi serial number is usually a long alphanumeric string of letters and numbers, accuracy is important when filling out warranty cards.

Study of factory packaging and documentation

When a smartphone is turned off, broken, or simply unavailable, the only source of truthful information is the original box. This is the most reliable way, since the data on the box is printed in the factory and corresponds to a particular instance of the device. On the back or bottom of the Xiaomi box there is always a white label with barcodes.

On this label you will find:

• 📦 Full model number of the device (e.g, M2102J20SG).
• 🔢 IMEI code (often duplicated twice for two slots).
• 🏷️ Serial number (S/N), barcoded.
• 🇨🇳 Manufacturer information and release date.

It is important to keep the box at least for a warranty period (usually 1 year). In many authorized service centers Xiaomi may be required to show a box to verify the serial number when you hand over the device for repair under warranty. The absence of packaging sometimes complicates the admission procedure, although it does not make it impossible.

⚠️ Note: A photo of the box is not always accepted as proof of purchase, but the data from it is necessary for the initial verification of the device in the database.

If the box is lost, you can try to find a warranty card or check if the seller manually or through the cash register ran the serial number, but checks are often only punched with the model name and IMEI. In such cases, you can rely on digital methods or search in the account.

Checking through your Mi Cloud account

Today’s smart device ecosystems allow you to track your technology remotely, and if your Xiaomi smartphone has signed in to Mi Account and synced, the device automatically ties to your profile, opening up the possibility of learning its data even without physical access to the gadget itself.

You need to go to the official website of the Mi Cloud service and log in under your login and password. Devices (or Find Device) section will display a list of all the equipment associated with the account. When choosing a particular smartphone, its model and, in some cases, its serial number or IMEI are often displayed in detail.

This is particularly useful in a theft situation, where you can not only see the device data, but also try to locate it, block it remotely or erase data, and having an associated account greatly increases the chances of a gadget being returned or personal information being protected.

It should be borne in mind that to work this method, the smartphone had to connect to the Internet at least once after turning on. If the device is new and has never been online with your account, the information in the cloud will not yet be.

Analysis of the sticker on the device body

Many countries require manufacturers to label their devices with a physical media, and on Xiaomi smartphones, this sticker is most often found on the back (unless it is glass or removed) or on a factory film that is pasted on the screen when sold, but it is more difficult to find in modern models with a single case.

In the era of smartphones with removable batteries, a sticker with IMEI and SN Now, the manufacturers have switched to laser engraving or stickers at the end of the box, and on some Redmi models, fine markings can be applied to the bottom end of the case next to the charging connector or on the tray for the battery. SIM-cards (although the tray is usually only a model).

Look carefully in good light. Sometimes the information is very fine and almost blends into the color of the case. If you find a sticker that says IMEI and SN, that's the data you want, don't confuse it with FCC ID or other regulatory signs.

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Physical markings on the case are the only way to find out if the phone is completely dead, the box is lost.

It is not recommended to erase this sticker or damage the engraving, as this may be regarded by the service center as a violation of the warranty conditions, especially if the moisture-protective indicator located nearby is damaged.

Table of conformity of symbols

To clarify the identity question, let’s systematize the basic terms you’ll come across, and understand the difference between them will help you avoid making mistakes when filling out forms and communicating with tech support.

As you can see from the table, IMEI and SN are different things, although they are often needed simultaneously. IMEI can be reset or modified programmatically (although this is complex and illegal in many countries), but the serial number is "sewn" deeper and is the main identifier for the manufacturing plant.

When you contact the service, always provide exactly the information that is requested from you. If you ask for a serial, give SN, if IMEI is IMEI. Confusion in this data can lead to the fact that the wizard will not be able to find your device in the database or will draw up the wrong documents.

Frequent Questions and Answers (FAQ)

Having this information makes you a more competent user and allows you to solve technical problems faster. Keep your device data in a safe place, and then no trouble with your gadget will take you by surprise.