Why Xiaomi Serial Number Is So Important and Where to Look for It If There Is No Box
Xiaomi's Serial Number (S/N) is a unique identifier that can be used in a dozen situations, from checking the originality of the gadget to warranty repair. But what if the box is lost and the sticker on the back is erased or missing? It turns out that there are at least 5 ways to recognize a serial without packaging - and most of them do not require root rights or special knowledge.
In this article, we will explore all the current methods, from standard MIUI menus to hidden engineering commands, learn how to find the serial number on smartphones (Redmi, POCO, Mi), tablets (Pad), smartwatches (Mi Band, Watch) and even routers, and how to use fake serial numbers to unlock the bootloader and how to distinguish the original S/N from a fake.
Important: if you plan to sell a device or contact a service center, you will need a serial number, and some methods (for example, through ADB) may not work on locked phones, we will also warn you about this in advance.
Method 1: via MIUI settings (on 99% of devices)
The easiest and most versatile method is to look up the serial number in the settings menu, which is suitable for all Xiaomi MIUI-based smartphones and tablets (including POCO and Black Shark), as well as most smartwatches and fitness bracelets with firmware from the manufacturer.
Instructions:
- 📱 Open the Settings app** (cog icon).
- 🔍 Scroll down and select About Phone (on tablets – About tablet).
- 📋 Tap on General Information or All characteristics (name depends on version) MIUI).
- 🔢 Find the line “Serial Number”** – this is the desired identifier.
On the Mi Band or Xiaomi Watch smartwatch, the path is a bit different:
- Open the Mi Fitness app (or Zepp for new models).
- Select your device in the list.
- Go to the Device Settings → About the device.
Check for MIUI updates |Reboot device |Make sure you don't use custom firmware |Try another way from the article-->
⚠️ Note: On some devices with MIUI Global serial number may be hidden due to privacy policy.In this case, try the method through IMEI (described below) or connect the phone to the computer.
Method 2: via IMEI (if the serial number is hidden)
If the MIUI settings do not have a serial number, it can be calculated by IMEI, the international mobile hardware identifier, which only works for smartphones and tablets with SIM-enabled cards (not suitable for Mi Band or routers).
Steps:
- Find out. IMEI device: 📞 Type on the keyboard *#06# - the number will appear automatically. 📄 Or look at the settings: About the phone → General information → IMEI.
IMEI.info
IMEI
«Serial Number»**
Why is IMEI and serial number not the same?
⚠️ Note: Some online services may show an incorrect serial number if the device has been restored after a breakdown or stitched with unofficial software. ADB (described below).
Method 3: via ADB (for advanced users)
If standard methods don't work, you can pull the serial number out through ADB (Android Debug Bridge), a tool for debugging Android devices, which requires a computer and enabled USB debugging, but gives 100% results.
Step-by-step:
- 🖥️ Install. ADB-Drivers on a computer (Windows, macOS or Linux).
- 📱 On your phone, activate Developer Mode**: Go to Settings → Put 7 times on the line version MIUI. Go back to the main settings menu and open a new developer section. USB.
File transfer
Terminal
adb shell getprop ro.serialnoAfter completing the command, you will see the serial number in the format. XXXXXXXXXXXX (12–16 If you have multiple lines, look for the one that starts with letters. SN or S/N.
adb shell cat /sys/class/android_usb/android0/iSerialThis method works on some models. POCO And Redmi with custom firmware.-->
Method 4: through the engineering menu (hidden codes)
Xiaomi devices have a hidden engineering menu where you can find the serial number and other service information, which does not require a connection to a PC, but does not work on all models.
Instructions:
- 📱 Open the phone application** (call).
- 🔢 Enter the code: For most smartphones: ##4636## POCO and some Redmi: ##225## For older models (Mi 5, Mi 6): #6484##
- 🔍 In the menu that opens, find the Phone Information or Hardware Info tab.
- 📋 Scroll down to the line "Serial Number»**.
⚠️ Warning: Do not change the settings in the engineering menu unless you know their purpose! Incorrect settings can cause failures in the communication module or camera.
Through settings MIUI|Po Po Po IMEI|Through ADB|Through the engineering menu|Another option-->
Method 5: Physically inspect the device (if nothing helps)
If the software methods didn't work, you can find the serial number on the device itself -- but you'll have to disassemble it -- and it's a way to do it for smartphones, tablets, and even Xiaomi routers.
Where to look:
| Type of device | Location S/N | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Smartphones/tablets | Under the battery (on the motherboard) | Remove the back cover and disconnect the battery |
| Mi Band / Watch | On the back of the body (under the strap) | It can be applied with varnish or engraving |
| Routers (Mi Router) | On the bottom sticker or under the lid | Sometimes duplicated on the box from the power supply |
| Laptops (Mi Notebook) | Under the battery or under the bottom | It may be hidden under rubber legs. |
⚠️ Warning: Disassembly of the device voids the warranty! If you are not sure about your skills, you should contact the Xiaomi service center - they will provide a serial number for free on request (if you have a check or a binding to your Mi Account account).
💡
If you're disassembling a serial number search device, take a picture of all the plumes and screws before you disconnect, and this will help you avoid back-assembly errors.
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
When searching for a serial number, users often face typical problems, and here are the most common ones and how to solve them:
- 🔄 Serial number is not displayed in the settings → Check if you have custom firmware installed (like LineageOS or Pixel Experience). ADB physical examination.
- 🔍 IMEI.info shows wrong S/N → The service may be wrong if the device has been restored after a breakdown.
- 🚫 ADB does not recognize the device → Install the original Xiaomi drivers or try another one USB-cable (preferably original).
- 🔧 After disassembly, the device does not turn on → Check if the battery and display plumes are connected correctly. If you're not sure, bring them to the service.
Another common mistake is to confuse the serial number with the MAC-The address or model number. Remember: S/N It is always composed of letters and numbers (for example, D4FC3A9B1234), The model number looks like M2003J15SC (letters and numbers without special symbols).