Each Xiaomi smartphone has unique identifiers that you might need to unlock the bootloader, restore access to your Mi Account, verify the originality of the device, or contact support. But where exactly do you look for this data? Depending on the situation, you may need an IMEI, a serial number, MIUI ID, or even an Android ID.
In this article, we will look at all possible ways, from the standard (through the settings menu) to the hidden (using engineering codes). It is important to understand that some identifiers (for example, IMEI) are duplicated on the box and in the system, while others (like MIUI ID) can only be obtained software, and we will also explain why each of them is needed and in which cases it may be necessary.
1 What is a phone ID and why is it needed
The term "phone ID" often refers to several unique identifiers at once.
- π± IMEI β International mobile device identifier, needed to contact the operator, lock the device in case of loss and verify legality (for example, through the database) GSMA). Phones with two SIM-card: IMEI1 and IMEI2.
- π’ Serial number (S/N) β Unique factory code, which you can check the warranty, date of production and originality of the device on the Xiaomi website.
- π MIUI ID β An internal firmware ID that is linked to a Mi Account, required to unlock the bootloader or restore access to the phone.
- π€ Android ID β system identifier used by applications to bind licenses (e.g., in games or paid utilities).
The most popular scenarios when you may need an ID:
- π Unlock the bootloader via Mi Unlock Tool (required) MIUI ID).
- π¦ Checking the originality of the device before purchase (by the IMEI and S/N site mi.com/verify).
- π‘ Restore access to Mi Account when password is lost (needed) MIUI ID or IMEI).
- π οΈ Warranty repair (service center requests) S/N).
β οΈ Attention: Never share IMEI or MIUI ID Fraudsters can use them to lock your device through Xiaomi services.
2. Method 1: Recognize IMEI and serial number through settings
The easiest and safest method is to use the phoneβs standard menu, which is suitable for all Xiaomi models, including Redmi, POCO and Black Shark:
- Open the Settings app (cog icon).
- Go to About Phone (older versions of MIUI may call it About Device).
- Put on the item All characteristics (or General information).
- Scroll down to the IMEI block and Serial number.
If you have a phone with two SIM-You'll see two maps. IMEI (for example, IMEI1 and IMEI2). The serial number is always one.
βοΈ What to check in the settings
On some models (e.g. Xiaomi 13T or POCO F5), the path may be slightly different:
Settings β About phone β Device Information β Status SIM- Cardsβ οΈ Note: If the menu does not include All characteristics, update MIUI In old firmware, the interface may be different.
3. Method 2: Used USSD-quick-access codes
If you need to know IMEI quickly without clicking on the menu, use engineering codes, which works even on a locked phone (if the screen is on):
- Open the phone (calling) application.
- Enter the *#06# code and press the call button.
- A window with one or two will appear on the screen. IMEI (depending SIM-map).
For models with MIUI 14 and later, the code can output additional information, such as MEID (for CDMA-enabled devices). If the code doesn't work, try an alternative:
##4636##After entering, select Phone Information β there will be IMEI and other technical data.
| Code. | What shows | Works on |
|---|---|---|
| *#06# | IMEI (1 or 2) | All Xiaomi models |
| ##4636## | IMEI, serial number, network data | MIUI 12 and newer |
| ##232338## | MAC-Wi-Fi address | Older versions of MIUI |
| ##2664## | Touchscreen test | Only for diagnosis. |
π‘
If the *#06# code doesnβt work, try entering it in call mode (dial the number and add the code before pressing the call button).
Method 3: Check the ID on the box and under the battery
If the phone is not turned on or locked, you can find the IMEI and serial number on physical media:
- π¦ Device box: The barcode sticker is indicated IMEI1, IMEI2 (if there is, and S/N. It is usually located at the bottom of the box.
- π Under the battery: On older models (e.g. Redmi) 4X or Mi A1) IMEI duplicated on a sticker under a removable cover.
- π Warranty card: In some countries (for example, in Russia) IMEI written in the guarantee documents.
If there is no box and the battery is non-removable (like in Xiaomi 12 or POCO X5), try the following method.
What if the IMEI on the phone and the box donβt match?
Some models (such as Black Shark 5) IMEI also duplicated in SIM-Lotto β check the small sticker on the metal frame.
5. Method 4: Getting MIUI ID through Xiaomi account
MIUI ID is an internal ID that is linked to your Mi Account, and it's used to unlock the bootloader or restore access to the phone, and it's only available in software:
- Open Settings β Accounts and Sync β Mi Account.
- Put it on your profile (email or phone number).
- Scroll down to the MIUI ID block (may be called Unique Identifier).
- Copy or write down the numerical code.
If this item is missing, try an alternative method:
- Install the Security app from Google Play.
- Open it and go to Settings β About the program.
- Tap several times according to the app version until the developer menu appears.
- Select MIUI ID and your ID will be displayed.
β οΈ Attention: MIUI ID This changes when you reset your phone to factory settings or link to a new Mi Account. If you plan to unlock the bootloader, write it down in advance!
π‘
MIUI ID is not the same as IMEI: the first is tied to firmware and account, the second is tied to the hardware of the phone.
6. Method 5: Recognize Android ID (for applications)
Android ID is a system identifier that applications use to link licenses or store data, such as games or paid utilities, and can be accessed through special applications:
- Download the Device ID utility from Evozi from Google Play.
- Open the application and provide access to device information.
- In the list, look for Android ID (or SSAID).
Alternative way (for advanced users):
adb shell settings get secure android_idThis command must be entered through ADB on your computer. For more information about setting up ADB, read our instructions.
| Type ID | Wherever used | Can we change? |
|---|---|---|
| IMEI | Communication with the operator, blocking | Only through firmware (risky) |
| Serial number. | Guarantee, verification of originality | No. |
| MIUI ID | Unlock the bootloader, Mi Account | Yes (when you reset or change your account) |
| Android ID | Application licenses, games | Yes (via reset or ADB) |
7 What to do if the ID is missing or not readable
Sometimes identifiers may be missing or displayed incorrectly (e.g. IMEI: 000000000000000). This is a sign of a serious problem.
- π Resetting: If IMEI reset after firmware, try to restore it through backup in Settings β Additionally. β Recovery and discharge.
- π οΈ Communication module damage: On Xiaomi models with Qualcomm Snapdragon (e.g., Xiao, POCO X3) IMEI stored in modemst1/modemst2. If it is damaged, only reflashing through will help. EDL-regime.
- π¦ Fake device: If none of the methods shows IMEI, You're likely to have a clone. mi.com/verify.
To restore IMEI on Xiaomi with a MediaTek processor (for example, Redmi 9A), you can use the MTK Engineering Mode utility:
- Download the MTK Engineering application.
- Go to Connectivity β CDS Information β Radio Information.
- Select Phone 1 (or Phone 2 for the second SIM).
- In the AT+ field, type AT + EGMR=1.7, "Your IMEI" and press SEND AT COMMAND.
β οΈ Attention: Incorrect change IMEI It can lead to a network lock or a phone brick. If you're not sure, contact the service center.