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What is the full form of IMEI?

Full form of IMEI: Here, we are going to learn about the IMEI, full form of IMEI, overview, basic fundamental, advantages, etc. By Anushree Goswami Last updated : March 30, 2024

IMEI: International Mobile Equipment Identity

IMEI is an abbreviation of International Mobile Equipment Identity. It alludes to code or number that recognizes a particular mobile phone used over a mobile network. Each mobile phone has a distinctive IMEI number comprises of 15 to 17 digit number. Generally, on the backside of a user's mobile battery, it is printed. By dialing *#06#, a user can examine his mobile phone IMEI number.

Breaking Down the IMEI Number

The information about the serial number of the device, model number, and origin is displayed by the IMEI number.

AA-BBBBBB-CCCCCC-D/EE

• AA: It displays the identifier of the reporting body. It is a segment of the Type Allocation Code (TAC) and displays a mobile phone model and brand.
• BBBBBB: It is also a segment of the Type Allocation Code (TAC).
• CCCCCC: Displays serial number.
• D: Luhn checksum.
• EE: Displays software version number.

When the situation of mobile theft arises, the IMEI number is used. The database with the IMEIs number is contained by telecom operators. When a situation arises in which mobile is lost, then in that situation that handset IMEI number is marked invalid and the use of any SIM card will be restricted by the mobile operators. However, there is a clear chance that a smart thief on the stolen handset can install an unmark IMEI number and can use it again another illegal time. So, if a user's phone is lost or stolen, then a user can make available for use his IMEI number to his provider of mobile network and request them to disable the phone system and setting.

How IMEI number is made?

On the origin, model, and the serial number of the device, the IMEI of 15 decimal digits or IMEISV of 16 digits comprises information. The arrangement of the IMEI/SV is stated in 3GPP TS 23.003. The initial 8-digit portion of the IMEI/SV is included in the model and origin, called the Type Allocation Code (TAC). In the end, with a Luhn check digit, the remainder of the IMEI is stated by the manufacturer.

Image source: https://www.imei.info/news/why-check-phone-imei/

Advantages of IMEI number

• The most significant benefit of the IMEI number is that it aids in detecting the criminals.
• IMEI numbers have played an important role in restricting the usage of a stolen device and as a consequence help in controlling the occurrences of theft.
• The operator can rapidly send the message with IMEI number to the Central Equipment Identity Register, in countries like the UK, which afterward moves it to all other network providers. On all the networks, devices are blacklisted within 48 hours.