How to Change the IMEI on Xiaomi Phone: Safe and Risky Ways

Changing the IMEI on Xiaomi smartphones is a theme surrounded by myths and technical nuances. This unique identifier connects the device to mobile networks, and its modification may be necessary after a failed firmware, loss of the original number or when buying a device with a “grey” past. However, before you start the procedure, it is necessary to clearly understand that any interference with the system partitions of MIUI can lead to loss of warranty, network locking or even “bricking” the phone.

In this article, we will discuss all the current ways of changing. IMEI Xiaomi (including Snapdragon and Mediatek models), their legality, technical limitations and alternative solutions, and we will focus on the official method through the engineering menu (not available on all devices) and software tools like Maui. META or SN Write Tool. You will also learn how to check the current IMEI What to do if the phone stops catching the network after the changes.

⚠️ Warning: In most countries, a self-sustaining change IMEI without good reason (for example, recovery from hardware failure) is considered a violation of the law. №126 "On Communication" (Article 13.11) Use the information at your own risk.

1.What is IMEI and why is it changed to Xiaomi

IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit code that is assigned to each mobile device during the manufacturing phase.

1. Identification in the networks of operators (without the correct IMEI phone will not be able to call or use mobile Internet).
2. Protection against theft: operators can lock the device using IMEI.
3. Legality Control: Customs monitors the import of devices by these numbers.

On Xiaomi smartphones (as well as other Android devices), the IMEI is stored in NVRAM, a non-volatile memory separate from the main firmware, and the reasons for changing it are usually the following:

• 🔧 Recovery after a crash: After a failed firmware or reset via Fastboot IMEI It can be reset (shown as 000000000000000 or Null).
• 📱 "Gray imports: Phones brought from abroad without official unpacking may be IMEI, non-registered in local operator databases.
• 🔒 Operator lock: If the device is blacklisted (lost/stolen), change IMEI It could bring him back to work.
• 🛡️ Privacy: Some users tend to hide the original identifier (although this does not guarantee anonymity).

⚠️ Note: On Xiaomi models with Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets (for example, Redmi Note 12 Pro)+ or POCO F5) IMEI hardware-bound QCN, And changing it without specialized hardware often results in network loss. 10A or POCO M5) The procedure is simpler, but also risky.

MIUI 14/15 is actively fighting unauthorized partition changes. If you upgraded your firmware through OTA, some IMEI swap methods may stop working due to enhanced DM-Verity protection.

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Before any manipulation of the IMEI, back up the original number, which can be found on a sticker under the battery (if removable) or in the device box.

2.How to check the current IMEI on Xiaomi

Before you change the IMEI, make sure it’s the problem. Here are 4 ways to check on Xiaomi smartphones:

• 📱 Code in the call: Dial *#06# - one or two will appear on the screen IMEI (two-device SIM-map).
• ⚙️ Settings: Go to Settings → The phone. → General information.
• 📄 Box/sticker: Original IMEI indicated on the label under the battery (if the body is collapsible) or on the box.
• 💻 ADB: Connect your phone to your PC and execute the command: adb shell service call iphonesubinfo 3 (requires enabled Debugging by USB rooting).

If you see Null instead of the number, 000000000000000 or Invalid IMEI, This means that the ID is erased, and then the phone will not be able to connect to the mobile network, even if it's not connected to the mobile network. SIM-card.

Double. IMEI (two-way SIM-maps) are changed separately for each slot. 13T Pro or Redmi Note 12 Pro will be available for you IMEI1 and IMEI2.

3.Official method: Engineering menu (for Mediatek only)

On some Xiaomi models with Mediatek processors (e.g. Redmi 9A, POCO M3, Redmi 10C) you can change the IMEI through the engineering menu without using a PC. This method is considered the most secure, but does not work on all devices.

Step-by-step:

1. Open the engineering menu: Dial the code ##3646633## in the call (or #4636### on some firmware). If the code doesn't work, try ##2846579## → ProjectMenu → Background Setting → Logger.
2. Go to the CDS section: In the engineering menu, select Connectivity → CDS Information → Radio Information.
3. Choose. SIM-Slot: If you have two SIM-Change the cards first. IMEI1 (Slot 1), then IMEI2 (Slot 2).
4. Enter the command: In the input field, type (without quotes): AT + EGMR=1.7," NEW IMEI" For example: AT + EGMR=1.7,"861234567890123."
5. Apply the changes: Press Send AT Command. If the command is successful, OK will appear.
6. Reboot your phone: Turn off and turn on the device, then check the new IMEI via *#06#.

⚠️ Attention: MIUI 14/15 You can block access to the engineering menu. If nothing happens after you enter the code, try it:

• Reverse the firmware to an older version (e.g. MIUI 12).
• Use ADB to unlock the engineering menu (root required).

On Snapdragon chipsets (for example, Xiaomi 12T, POCO F4 GT), the engineering menu does not allow you to change the IMEI - you will need specialized tools like QPST or QCN Rebuilder.

4. Software Methods: Maui META and SN Write Tool

For Mediatek devices (and some Snapdragon devices), you can use PC software like Maui META or SN Write Tool, which are low-end tools, so you need to be careful.

Requirements:

• 🖥️ Windows computer 7/10/11 (on macOS/Linux These programs don't work).
• 🔌 Cable USB (Preferably original from Xiaomi).
• 📱 Included debugging by USB and unlocked boot loader (for some models).
• 📂 Backup copy NVRAM (necessarily!).

Instructions for Maui META:

1. Download and install: Mediatek Drivers (select the version for your chipset) Maui META (version 9.1624.0 or later).

Connect the phone:

Turn off the device, press Volume up + Power to log in to Fastboot, then plug in to the PC.

Launch Maui META:

Select Connect → Smart Phone → Meta Mode.

Enter a new IMEI:

Go to the IMEI tab, enter the new number in the IMEI1 and IMEI2 fields, then click Write.

Reboot the phone:

Turn off the cable, remove the battery (if possible) for 10 seconds, then turn on the device.

Instructions for SN Write Tool (for Snapdragon):

1. Download the SN Write Tool and Qualcomm drivers.
2. Connect the phone in EDL mode (this may require short circuit test points on the board).
3. In the program, select the COM port, download the QCN file (backup) and edit the IMEI.
4. Press Start and wait until it is completed (don’t turn off the cable!).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions