Finding the ESN, MEID, and IMEI on an iPhone is a simple process that can be completed in a few steps. These numbers are crucial for identifying your device for various services and can be easily located within your iPhone’s settings or on the physical device itself. Understanding how to find these numbers can save you time and hassle when dealing with mobile carriers or in the event of a lost or stolen phone.
After you have located the ESN, MEID, and IMEI, you can use these identifiers for various purposes, such as activating your iPhone with a mobile carrier, checking the device’s warranty status, or reporting it if it’s lost or stolen.
Introduction
When you buy a new iPhone, you’re not just getting a shiny new gadget; you’re also getting a device with unique identifiers that are as crucial as your phone number. The Electronic Serial Number (ESN), Mobile Equipment Identifier (MEID), and International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) are like the fingerprints for your iPhone. They are vital when you need to register your device with a mobile carrier, check its warranty, or report it if it’s missing.
But why exactly are these numbers so important? Well, for starters, if you’re planning to buy a used iPhone, you’d want to ensure it hasn’t been reported stolen. The IMEI can help with that. Also, if you’re switching carriers, your new provider might need the MEID to transfer your service. And let’s not forget, if your iPhone is lost or stolen, having the ESN can be a lifesaver for proving that it’s yours. So, whether you’re a tech newbie or a seasoned pro, knowing how to find these identifiers on your iPhone is a must.
Step by Step Tutorial to Find ESN, MEID, and IMEI on an iPhone
Before we dive into the steps, let’s clarify what we’ll achieve. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll know where to locate the ESN, MEID, and IMEI numbers on your iPhone, which are essential for identifying your device.
Step 1: Open the Settings app
Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
The Settings app is your gateway to all the necessary information about your iPhone. It’s typically found on your home screen and has an icon that looks like a set of gears.
Step 2: Go to General
Tap on “General” in the Settings menu.
“General” is where you’ll find most of the information related to your iPhone’s system and hardware. It’s a hub for the nitty-gritty details of your device.
Step 3: Tap About
Scroll down and tap on “About”.
“About” is the treasure trove of information for your iPhone. It’s here that you’ll find everything from your iPhone’s storage capacity to its software version and, most importantly, its unique identifiers.
Step 4: Locate the ESN, MEID, and IMEI
Scroll down to find the ESN, MEID, and IMEI numbers.
These numbers are usually located towards the bottom of the “About” section. They are clearly labeled, so you can’t miss them.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Ease of Access | Finding the ESN, MEID, and IMEI numbers is straightforward and can be done directly on the iPhone without the need for any additional tools or software. |
| Security | Knowing how to find these numbers can provide a sense of security, as they are essential for reporting a lost or stolen iPhone. |
| Utility | These numbers are frequently used for critical functions such as activating a new mobile service, checking warranty status, or ensuring a used iPhone is not blacklisted. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Privacy Concerns | If these numbers fall into the wrong hands, they could potentially be used for fraudulent activities. |
| Complexity for New Users | For those who are not tech-savvy, locating these numbers might initially seem intimidating. |
| Physical Wear | If the numbers are only available on the physical device, they can become unreadable due to wear and tear. |
Additional Information
In some cases, you might not be able to turn on your iPhone to access the ESN, MEID, and IMEI via the settings. Don’t fret; these identifiers are also physically printed on the device. For most models, you can find the IMEI on the SIM tray. Simply eject the tray and look for the small print.
If you’re using an iPhone 6 or earlier, the IMEI is printed on the back of your device. And if you still have the original packaging, the numbers can also be found on the barcode label. Keep in mind that if you’re checking a used iPhone before purchase, you can compare the physical numbers with the ones displayed in the “About” section to ensure they match and the device is not fraudulent.
Summary
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap on “General” in the Settings menu.
- Scroll down and tap on “About”.
- Scroll down to find the ESN, MEID, and IMEI numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can’t turn on my iPhone to access the Settings?
If your iPhone won’t turn on, check the SIM tray, the back of your device, or the original packaging for the IMEI number.
Are the ESN, MEID, and IMEI the same thing?
While they are all unique identifiers for your iPhone, the ESN and MEID are primarily used in the United States by CDMA carriers, whereas the IMEI is a global standard for all mobile devices.
Can I find the ESN, MEID, and IMEI if my iPhone is not activated?
Yes, these numbers can be found in the Settings or on the physical device regardless of activation status.
Is it safe to share my iPhone’s IMEI number?
Generally, it’s safe to share your IMEI with trusted entities like your mobile carrier, but be cautious about sharing it publicly or with unfamiliar parties.
How often will I need the ESN, MEID, or IMEI?
You may need these numbers when activating your device with a carrier, checking warranty status, or reporting the device if it’s lost or stolen.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to find the ESN, MEID, and IMEI on your iPhone, you’re well-equipped to handle any situation that requires these important identifiers. Whether you’re setting up service with a new carrier or ensuring the safety of your device, these numbers are crucial for any iPhone user to know.
Don’t forget to keep them handy but secure; you never know when you’ll need them. And remember, while the physical wear of your device can make these numbers unreadable, the “About” section in your settings will always have your back. Happy iPhone identifying!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.