Your Xiaomi, Redmi, or POCO phone has a unique identifier called an IMEI number. This 15-digit code is crucial for tracking stolen devices, unlocking carrier locks, checking phone authenticity, and accessing warranty support. In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to find your IMEI on any Xiaomi, Redmi, or POCO device — even if you’ve never done it before.
What Is an IMEI Number and Why Does It Matter?
Before we dive into finding your IMEI, let’s clarify what this number does. Your IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique serial number assigned to your phone at the factory. It’s like a fingerprint for your device — no two phones have the same IMEI number (unless the device has been illegally cloned, which we’ll address later).
Carriers worldwide use your IMEI to identify your phone on their networks, manage accounts, and block stolen or blacklisted devices. Knowing your IMEI is essential if your phone is lost or stolen, if you want to check if a used phone is legitimate, or if you need to unlock your device from one carrier and switch to another. Always check IMEI before buying a used phone before handing over money for any pre-owned device.
How to Find IMEI on Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO in Settings (Fastest Method)
The simplest way to find your IMEI on a Xiaomi, Redmi, or POCO phone is through the Settings app. This method works on all devices running MIUI 12 and newer. Follow these steps: If you are unsure where to look, our guide on how to find your IMEI number on any device covers every method.
- Open Settings on your phone
- Scroll down and tap About Phone (or About Device)
- Look for IMEI Number or IMEI 1
- If your phone is dual-SIM, you’ll see IMEI 1 and IMEI 2 — each SIM slot has its own IMEI
- Take a screenshot or write down the 15-digit number
Pro tip: If you have dual SIM slots, make sure you know which IMEI belongs to which slot. The carrier that issued your primary SIM uses IMEI 1, while the secondary SIM uses IMEI 2.
Find IMEI Using the Secret Code on Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO
Xiaomi phones include a hidden dialer code that instantly displays your IMEI without opening Settings. This trick works on every Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO device:
- Open the Phone Dialer app (the one you use to make calls)
- Type *#06# (this is a USSD code, not a phone number)
- Press Call
- Your IMEI number will appear instantly in a pop-up window
This is the fastest method and works on virtually every GSM phone in the world, including Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO. The code *#06# is universal and doesn’t require internet or any special permissions.
Find IMEI via Mi Account or Xiaomi Cloud
If your phone is connected to your Mi Account (Xiaomi’s cloud service), you can find your IMEI online without even holding the device:
- Go to account.xiaomi.com on a computer or another phone
- Sign in with your Mi Account credentials
- Navigate to Security & Privacy or Device Management
- Select your device from the list
- Your IMEI will be displayed in the device details
This is helpful if your phone is lost or damaged and won’t turn on. As long as you remember your Mi Account login, you can access your IMEI from any computer.
Find IMEI on the SIM Tray or Phone Box
Every Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO phone has its IMEI printed in two additional locations:
- SIM Tray: Eject the SIM tray (using the pin that came with your phone). The IMEI is printed on the tray itself or on the label inside
- Back of the Phone: Some models have IMEI printed under the battery or on the back panel (requires opening the phone)
- Original Packaging: The IMEI is printed on the phone box, user manual, and warranty card
- Warranty Card: Check the white sticker on the warranty card that came with your phone
Important: If the IMEI on the SIM tray doesn’t match the IMEI in Settings, your phone may have been cloned or tampered with. This is a red flag and should be reported to your carrier immediately. If the numbers look different, our explainer on why IMEI on the box might not match settings will tell you exactly what to do.
Contact Your Carrier to Find Your IMEI
If you can’t access your phone or don’t remember your Mi Account, your cellular carrier has a record of your IMEI. Contact your provider’s customer service:
- Call your carrier’s support number
- Provide your phone number and account details
- Ask for your device IMEI
- They’ll verify your account and provide the IMEI within minutes
This method is especially useful if your phone is stolen and you need to report it to your carrier immediately.
Comparison Table: Which Method Is Best?
| Method | Speed | Requires Phone | Requires Internet | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Settings > About Phone | 30 seconds | Yes | No | Regular access |
| *#06# Dialer Code | 5 seconds | Yes | No | Quickest method |
| Mi Account / Xiaomi Cloud | 1-2 minutes | No | Yes | Lost or damaged phone |
| SIM Tray or Box | 2 minutes | Yes | No | Verification, warranty |
| Contact Carrier | 5-10 minutes | No | Yes (phone) | Lost phone, urgent |
What If You Have Dual SIM? IMEI 1 vs IMEI 2
Most Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO phones support dual SIM technology, meaning they have two IMEI numbers — one for each SIM slot. Here’s what you need to know:
- IMEI 1: Primary SIM slot (usually the top slot)
- IMEI 2: Secondary SIM slot (usually the bottom slot or nano+microSD hybrid slot)
- Both numbers appear when you dial *#06# or check Settings
- Each carrier identifies your phone using the IMEI of the SIM you’re using with them
- If you switch one SIM to a different phone, that carrier will identify your phone using IMEI 2
Pro tip: Write down BOTH IMEI numbers if you have dual SIM. Keep them in a safe place in case you need to block your phone or file an insurance claim.
Common Questions About IMEI on Xiaomi Phones
Let me address some questions I hear frequently:
Can the IMEI on the box be different from the phone’s IMEI?
It shouldn’t be. A legitimate phone always has the same IMEI on the box, on the SIM tray, and in the phone’s settings. If they don’t match, the phone may be counterfeit, refurbished, or cloned. Mismatched IMEIs are a major red flag when buying used phones.
What should I do if I can’t find my IMEI?
Try each method in order: dialer code first, then Settings, then check the box. If none of these work, your phone may be seriously damaged or not genuine. Contact your carrier or Xiaomi support for assistance.
Is my IMEI private or can others misuse it?
Your IMEI is semi-public information. While it’s not as sensitive as your credit card number, you shouldn’t share it casually. Knowing your IMEI alone doesn’t give someone direct access to your phone, but it could be used to impersonate your device on a network. Keep it confidential unless you’re reporting your phone to your carrier or police. Following IMEI security and privacy best practices reduces the risk of your device identifier being exploited.
Can I change my IMEI number?
No, you cannot legally change your IMEI. The IMEI is permanently stored in your phone’s firmware and is part of the device’s identity. Attempting to change your IMEI is illegal in most countries and will brick your phone. If you’re experiencing IMEI issues, contact Xiaomi support or your carrier.
How to Use Your IMEI to Report a Stolen Xiaomi Phone
If your Xiaomi, Redmi, or POCO phone is stolen, you have several options to block it using your IMEI:
- Contact your carrier immediately — They can blacklist your IMEI, making the device unusable on their network
- Report to the CEIR database (India) or equivalent in your country — Most countries have a central IMEI blacklist
- File a police report — Include your IMEI and serial number for official records
- Remote wipe via Mi Account — If your phone is online, you can erase data remotely
- Contact Xiaomi support — They may be able to assist with additional security measures
Having your IMEI noted down beforehand makes this process much faster in an emergency.
Verify a Used Xiaomi Phone’s IMEI Before Buying
When buying a used Xiaomi, Redmi, or POCO phone, always verify the IMEI before handing over money: You can check your IMEI number online in seconds using several official and trusted services.
- Ask the seller for the IMEI — They should provide it without hesitation
- Verify it matches the box, SIM tray, and Settings — All three should show the same 15-digit number
- Check if it’s blacklisted — Use free IMEI check tools online (most are available in your country)
- Look for signs of cloning — If IMEI numbers don’t match or the box is damaged, walk away
- Trust your gut — If anything feels off, don’t complete the purchase
This small step can save you from buying a stolen or counterfeit device.
Final Thoughts
Finding your IMEI on a Xiaomi, Redmi, or POCO phone is quick and straightforward. Whether you use the dialer code (*#06#), Settings, or check your Mi Account online, you’ll have your IMEI in seconds. Save this number somewhere safe — your phone carrier, cloud storage, or even a physical notebook. You may need it if your phone is lost, stolen, or if you’re buying or selling a used device.
Start today: Open your dialer, type *#06#, and write down your IMEI number right now. It takes 5 seconds and could save you hours of frustration later.