Modern Xiaomi smartphones have long switched to dual-sim architecture, which means the presence of two independent slots for the smartphone. SIM-Each of these slots has its own unique identifier. IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity, which is required for registration of the device in the networks of operators. In situations involving locking a lost gadget, warranty service or authentication of the device, the owner may need a second number, which is often not listed in a prominent place.
Users often face confusion, believing that the phone shares a common code, but to work properly two SIM cards, the system assigns them separate digital sequences. Knowing how to access this data is a basic skill for any Mi or Redmi owner, which allows you to quickly navigate when transferring a number or checking the status of the device in databases.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the software and hardware methods for obtaining this information. We will not use third-party applications, since the standard Android operating system tools and MIUI shells provide full access to technical data.
Use of the system settings menu
The most reliable and secure way to find out SIM card identifiers is to go to the operating system's standard interface, which doesn't require SIM cards to be inserted and works even without access to the mobile network, so you first need to unlock the device screen and find the Settings icon, which usually looks like a gear.
Then the algorithm of actions depends on the version of the firmware, but the logic remains the same. You need to follow the path: Settings → About the phone → General information. In some versions of the HyperOS shell or older MIUI, the item may be simply called “Status” or located in the “System applications” section, which is where the full technical specification of your device is stored.
In the list you will see the lines «IMEI 1" and «IMEI 2». IMEI 2 is the number you want for the second SIM card, and if you only have one SIM, the second number will still be displayed in the system, because it's sewn into the modem in the factory (SN) or MAC-wifi address.
💡
If you don’t see IMEI 2 on the menu, try removing the SIM card tray and inserting both SIMs — some older firmware versions hid the second number until the card was physically installed.
The advantage of this method is the ability to copy the numbers to the clipboard with a long press, which eliminates errors when manually entering. This is especially useful if you need to send data to support or fill out a form on the operator's website. The font encoding in this menu is always readable, unlike some engineering menus.
Verification through engineering code
For those who prefer speed and don’t want to wander the menu, there is a universal input method. USSD-This is a modem-level approach that displays information even if the interface is partially damaged but the touchscreen is functional, so you have to open the phone app and go to the dial tab.
Enter the following sequence of symbols:
*#06#⚠️ Note: Some custom firmware or Chinese shell versions may block the standard code. If nothing happens after you type in the command, try using the code ##64663##, which opens the engineering menu, where you can also find the modem data.
It's important to understand that this is not a call command, so you don't need to press the green handset button. If you accidentally dial a number, just complete the call. It's also worth noting that on high-pixel density (AMOLED) screens, the font in this menu can be fine, so use zoom or wipe the screen for better readability.
Physical inspection of packaging and device
If the smartphone is not turned on, screen broken or locked, only the hardware search method remains. The primary source of information is the original cardboard box. On the back wall or end of the package, there is always a sticker with barcodes that indicate IMEI 1 and IMEI 2.
But if there's no box, you can try to find information on the body itself. In modern Xiaomi models with a non-removable battery, the data sticker is often located on the back cover. But since most devices now have glass or plastic back panels without stickers, this method does not always work, in such cases it is worth looking in the SIM card tray.
On some models (especially the older or budget Redmi Note series), microscopic plate engravings are applied directly to the plastic tray, to see it, remove the tray with a paper clip, and use another phone's magnifying glass or macro camera, and the engraving can be barely noticeable, so good lighting is critical.
| Searching spot | Availability | Accuracy of data | Incorporation required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Settings menu | Tall. | 100% | Yes (at least partial) |
| Code *#06# | Tall. | 100% | Yeah (screen should work) |
| Box | Medium (to be stored) | 100% | No. |
| SIM tray | Low (depending on model) | 100% | No. |
Remember, the data on the box and tray are factory-based, and if you've ever changed the motherboard of a device in a service center, those numbers may not match the real numbers, so you can only trust the data that is readable software when the phone is on.
Using a Google account
A unique opportunity for users who have lost access to their device is Google's Find Device service, which means that if you have logged in to a Google account and geolocated on your smartphone, you can see a list of all the devices you're tied to, and this method is convenient because it doesn't require physical contact with your phone.
Go to android.com/find from any computer or other smartphone. Once logged in to an account that was used on Xiaomi, select the phone you want from the device list. The device card, in addition to the current location and charge level, often displays technical information, including IMEI.
However, there is a caveat here: Google does not always show separation into IMEI 1 and IMEI 2, sometimes displaying only the main identifier. However, one primary number is often enough to lock a device through a carrier, since the lock usually extends to the entire device.
What if Google doesn’t show IMEI?
It is also useful for checking if your phone is lit up in the wrong hands, and if you see an active connection and location that does not belong to you, it is a signal for immediate action to lock through police and operators.
Checking through computer and ADB
For advanced users who have access to a PC, there is a method of obtaining data through debugging. USB. It's a professional way of pulling technical data directly from the system, bypassing the GUI, and it's especially relevant if the touchscreen of the phone is broken, but the image is displayed (works). USB-debugging).
First, you need to install ADB drivers on your computer. Then connect your smartphone with a cable. In the command line (Terminal or CMD), type the command:
adb shell service call iphonesubinfo 1An alternative, simpler option for Windows is to use manager software like Mi PC Suite or third-party snails like AIDA64 (if you have a server application installed on your phone), and if you plug in the device, you'll see the full specification in the program window on your monitor, and you'll clearly see the second IMEI.
⚠️ Attention: To work through ADB It is necessary that the menu “For developers” is pre-enabled on the phone and the “Debugging by” item is activated. USB». On a locked phone where you can’t click “Allow” on a pop-up request, this method may not work.
Why do you need a second IMEI?
Owners often wonder why they might need a second number if they only use one SIM card. However, there are situations in life where knowing both identifiers is critical, for example, when buying a used phone on an ad, fraudsters may give you an IMEI 1, which will be “clean”, while IMEI 2 may be blacklisted.
IMEI 2 checks can identify devices that have been lost or stolen, even if the first slot has never been used by attackers. Operators sometimes lock the entire device, but they can appear under different numbers in lock registers, so checking both slots is a guarantee of security of the transaction.
- 🔍 History check: Make sure the phone hasn't been recovered from "bricks" from different donors.
- 📱 Warranty repair: Xiaomi service centers often require both numbers to identify the motherboard.
- 🚫 Blocking: When you steal a phone with two SIMs, lock the second IMEI Closes the network for a second slot that the thief can use for himself.
☑️ Checklist before buying used Xiaomi
In addition, in some regions, operators require all devices to register using IMEI. If you register only one SIM card and insert a second one later, it may not work without additional authorization of the second identifier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I change the IMEI to Xiaomi?
What if IMEI 1 and IMEI 2 are the same?
Where to find an IMEI if the phone is completely broken and not turned on?
Does the change in the firmware region affect IMEI?
💡
The second IMEI is a valid passport of your device online, and checking it is as important as checking the primary number, especially when buying used equipment.