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The serial number is Samsung’s manufacturer-assigned identifier for an individual device. The IMEI identifies a mobile communication device in a global system. Both can help identify your Galaxy, but they serve different identification systems—and neither is the model number.
IMEI vs. serial number: the difference
Samsung describes an IMEI and serial number as “two forms of identification” for a Galaxy phone or tablet. The serial number identifies an individual product in the manufacturer’s records; the IMEI is the identifier used for a mobile device in global mobile-network contexts. Samsung says either may help network providers deal with a device reported lost or stolen, so it is too broad to say the serial number is only for manufacturer support. Samsung Canada’s comparison was last updated March 6, 2026.
| Identifier | What it identifies | Where it is useful |
|---|---|---|
| Serial number | An individual Samsung product, assigned by the manufacturer | Manufacturer and product records; may also help a network provider in a lost-or-stolen case |
| IMEI | A mobile communication device in a global identification system | Mobile-network contexts, including lost-or-stolen device handling |
| Model number | A product range or variant; multiple devices can share it | Identifying which product type or variant you have |
How the model number differs
The model number is not a unique identifier for your particular handset. It points to a model or variant that can be shared by many devices. Samsung notes that model details can vary according to factors such as year, color, and carrier. Use the serial number or IMEI when a form asks for an individual device identifier; use the model number when it asks which type of phone you own. See Samsung’s explanation of Galaxy IMEI, model, and serial numbers.
Find the IMEI and serial number in Settings
- Open Settings.
- Tap About phone.
- Look for the entries labeled IMEI and Serial number.
On a Samsung tablet, use Settings > About tablet. Menu names and screens can vary by device model, software version, and wireless provider. Samsung’s US device-lookup guide covers these steps.
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- 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
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If you cannot open the phone
Check records or services that may already have the device’s identifiers. Samsung lists these alternatives:
- Original packaging: Check the product label on the box.
- Samsung Members: If the device is registered, its details may be available in the app.
- Carrier account: Look on the carrier’s website or in your account.
- Bill of sale or purchase paperwork: Check the documents from the retailer or carrier.
- Dialer code: Enter *#06# in the phone app if your carrier supports it; the identifiers may appear on screen.
Some older devices with removable batteries may have an identifier label beneath the battery. This applies only to some devices; do not open a phone or try to remove a battery that is not designed to be removable. Samsung lists these lookup options in its US support guide.
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- 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.
What the number formats can—and cannot—tell you
Samsung Ireland’s support guidance describes a serial number as 11 characters and an IMEI as 15 digits. Treat those lengths as that regional page’s guidance, not a guarantee for every Samsung product or market. The format alone is not a substitute for checking the identifier label or device settings. Samsung Ireland’s guide was last updated March 19, 2026.
Do not rely on a rear-panel label
A label on the back of the phone is not dependable across all devices or repair histories. Samsung Singapore notes that the IMEI, serial number, and model number may no longer be printed on the rear panel if the back has been replaced. Use Settings or another listed record when the label is absent. Samsung Singapore’s guidance was last updated July 14, 2023.
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- 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.
When you may need an identifier
Samsung says these identifiers can help with device authenticity and lost-or-stolen situations, and an identifier may be requested for some promotions. The exact requirement depends on the carrier, repair provider, promotion, or warranty process: check the instructions for that specific case rather than assuming one number will always be accepted. Samsung’s Canada support page discusses the identifiers’ use, while its US guide explains where to find them.
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- 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
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- 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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