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On most Samsung Galaxy phones, open Settings > About phone to find the IMEI. If the phone works, you can also open the Phone app and enter *#06#; where supported, the identifiers appear without placing a call. Finding the IMEI identifies the device—it does not unlock it.
Find the IMEI in Settings
- Open Settings.
- Tap About phone.
- Look for the IMEI. On some older software, the information may be under Status.
Menu names and screens can vary by model, software, carrier, and region. Samsung notes that its Canada instructions apply to devices sold there: Samsung Canada’s guide to finding device identifiers.
Use the Phone app code
- Open the Phone app.
- Enter
*#06#. - Read the IMEI or IMEIs shown on screen. Do not press the call button; Samsung’s Brazil instructions say it is not needed.
This code works only where supported by the device and carrier. Samsung provides regional instructions at Samsung Brazil’s IMEI guide.
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If you cannot use the phone
Try these alternatives; availability depends on the device and the records or accounts you can access:
#1 Best Overall
- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
- Original retail box or purchase receipt: Check for a printed device identifier.
- Carrier account: Look for device details associated with your line.
- Device markings: Depending on the model, the IMEI may be marked on the back or beneath a removable battery.
- Linked Samsung account features: Samsung documents options through Samsung Members or SmartThings Find in some regions when the device is linked to the relevant account. See Samsung’s regional guidance.
Do not try to remove a battery that is not designed to come out. Samsung warns that doing so can damage the device and void its warranty. Device markings and account options vary by model and region.
Know which identifier you need
The IMEI, serial number, and model number identify different things. Samsung describes the IMEI and serial number as separate forms of identification: Samsung Canada’s explanation of device identifiers.
Rank #2
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
- IMEI: Identifies a phone or other communication device. Samsung Argentina describes it as a 15-digit code used by carriers to track or block a device reported stolen; that statement is from its regional support page: Samsung Argentina’s IMEI guide.
- Serial number: A manufacturer-assigned identifier for an individual product.
- Model number: Identifies a product version or range, so it can be shared by many devices.
A compatible dual-SIM phone may show IMEI and IMEI 2. If a carrier, insurer, or form asks for one, check whether it specifies which identifier to provide. Samsung explains this display in its Brazil IMEI instructions.
If you are trying to unlock the phone
Finding or providing the IMEI is an identification step, not an unlock procedure. Samsung’s instructions explain where to locate the identifier; they do not establish whether a device is eligible for a carrier unlock. Contact your carrier and follow its official unlock process for eligibility and next steps.
Rank #3
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
If the phone is lost or stolen
A carrier may ask for the IMEI when you report a device or request that it be blocked. Samsung Brazil also notes it may be requested for a police report, but procedures vary by location. Contact your carrier or local authorities for the applicable process. See Samsung Brazil’s guidance on locating the IMEI.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
Rank #4
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
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