Forgot the password from Xiaomi and the phone is locked? Without IMEI knowledge, it is almost impossible to unlock the device through official services. This unique identifier is required to confirm ownership, restore access through Mi Account and even when contacting the service center. The problem is that on a locked screen, the standard IMEI viewing methods (via *#06# or settings) are not available.
In this article, we will discuss 5 proven methods for finding IMEI on a locked Xiaomi, from simple (through a box or account) to technically complex (using ADB or disassembling a device). Each method is illustrated with screenshots and accompanied by step-by-step instructions. Importantly, some methods require preliminary preparation (for example, the enabled debugging mode over USB), so read carefully!
1. IMEI check on the box or in the documents
The fastest and safest way is to find the IMEI on the phoneβs original packaging, and the manufacturer puts it on a sticker along with the serial number (S/N) and the model of the device.
Where to look:
- π¦ Phone box β usually a sticker on the end or bottom. IMEI indicated under the barcode in format IMEI1: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX and IMEI2: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX (double-sim).
- π Warranty card - if saved, IMEI duplicated in the same place as the date of sale.
- π Check or invoice - in some shops break through IMEI when selling (for example, in the Connected or MTS).
β οΈ Note: If the box is from another phone (for example, after replacement under warranty), IMEI It won't match your device, and it could have been removed on resale.
2. Viewing IMEI through Mi Account (if phone is tied)
If your Xiaomi was tied to the Mi Account before locking, you can try finding IMEI in your personal account, which only works for devices that have synced with Xiaomi servers at least once.
Instructions:
- Go to account.xiaomi.com and log in.
- In the Devices section, find your locked phone.
- Click on the model and a page will open with detailed information, including IMEI.
πΉ What to do if the device is not displayed?
That means that the phone wasn't tied to the account or the sync is off. Try other ways.
How to check if your phone is linked to your Mi Account?
3.Use of Fastboot Mode (without unlocking)
If the phone responds to buttons, but the screen is locked, you can try to remove the phone. IMEI This method doesn't require unlocking the bootloader, but you need a computer and a computer. USB-cable.
Step-by-step:
- Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10-15 seconds).
- Press Volume Down + Power to enter Fastboot.
- Connect your phone to your PC and open the Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux).
- If the device is determined, you will see a string with IMEI (or two IMEIs for dual-sim models).
β οΈ Note: On some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi Note 10 Pro), the fastboot getvar imei command can return the empty value:
fastboot getvar allLook for the line imei: or imei1:/imei2:.
βοΈ Preparation for work with Fastboot
4. IMEI extraction via ADB (if debugging was enabled)
If you have enabled USB Debugging before locking your phone, you can try getting an IMEI via ADB. This method works even on a locked screen if your PC has been previously authorized.
How to do this:
- Connect the phone to your computer and open the Command Prompt.
- Enter the command to check the connection: adb devices If the device appears in the list, go further.
- Follow the command: adb shell service call iphonesubinfo 3 In the answer, look for the line with numbers - this is IMEI.
Critical detail: if USB debugging was not enabled in advance, this method will not work, and on some firmware (e.g. MIUI 14+), the command may return the error due to security limitations.
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If the adb shell service call iphonesubinfo 3 doesn't work, try an alternative method: adb shell getprop | grep imei. This will work on most versions of Android.
5. Physical examination of the phone (disassembly)
Some Xiaomi models IMEI duplicated on a sticker under the battery or on the tray SIM-This method requires disassembling the device and is only suitable for advanced users.
Where to find IMEI:
- π Under the battery β on most models (for example, Redmi) 4X, Mi A1) sticker IMEI battery-board.
- π± On the tray. SIM-cards β rarely, but on some devices (e.g. Mi) 5s) IMEI engraved.
- π§ On the back panel - from old models (until 2018) IMEI could be listed under the removable cover.
β οΈ Warning: Disassembling the phone will void the warranty (if it is still valid) and may damage the device.
| Xiaomi model | IMEI location | Is there a need for a showdown? |
|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 8/9 Pro | Sticker under the battery | Yes. |
| Mi 11 Ultra | Only in the firmware/box | No. |
| POCO X3 Pro | Sticker on the SIM tray | No. |
| Mi A2 | Under the back cover. | Yes (requires mediator) |
What if none of the methods worked?
If you have tried all the methods but have not found the IMEI, there are two options:
- Contact the service center Xiaomi β if you have a check or warranty card, specialists can extract IMEI through service software (for example, Mi Flash), the service is paid (from 500 to 1500 rubles), but reliable.
- Restore access via Mi Account β if the phone is linked to your account but you donβt remember the password, try to restore it via email or phone number. Once you restore access, you can see the IMEI in the settings.
πΉ Last chance: If the phone was purchased from an official seller (for example, Svyaznoy, MTS, Wildberries), contact the store support - they may have a record with the phone. IMEI database.
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If you bought your phone with your hands, the chances of recovering your IMEI without disassembling it are minimal, in which case unlocking your Mi Account becomes almost impossible without contacting the service.