If you need the IMEI on your iPhone 16, you are probably trying to activate a new line, check warranty status, report a lost phone, or verify a device before buying or selling it. Good news: this is quick. The IMEI is built into the iPhone, and Apple gives you several easy ways to find it in just a few taps.
In this guide, you will learn the fastest way to find the IMEI on an iPhone 16, plus a few backup methods in case your phone is unavailable, the screen is broken, or you want to check it from a different place. Most users can find it in under a minute.
Summary
- Open Settings > General > About and look for IMEI.
- You can also find it on the SIM tray, the box, or in your Apple Account device list.
- If the iPhone does not turn on, use the original packaging or carrier records.
Tutorial – How to Find IMEI on iPhone 16 in Settings
This is the easiest and most reliable method. It works whether your iPhone 16 is brand new, activated, or already in use.
Step 1: Open the Settings app
Unlock your iPhone 16 and tap Settings on the Home Screen or in the App Library.
You should now see the main Settings menu with your Apple ID name at the top. If you do not see the app right away, swipe down and use Search to find it faster.
Step 2: Tap General
In the Settings menu, tap General.
This opens the section that contains device information and system options. On the next screen, you will see items like About, Software Update, and AirDrop.
Step 3: Tap About
Tap About at the top of the General menu.
The About page displays key details about your iPhone 16, including the model name, model number, serial number, and network identifiers. This is where the IMEI is stored.
Step 4: Find the IMEI number
Scroll if needed until you see IMEI.
Your IMEI number will appear as a 15-digit number. If your iPhone supports dual SIM or eSIM, you may also see IMEI2. That is normal. The first IMEI is usually the primary one.
Step 5: Copy or write down the number
Press and hold the IMEI number, then tap Copy if you want to paste it elsewhere.
This is useful if you need to send the IMEI to a carrier, Apple Support, or an insurance provider. You can also take a screenshot, but make sure you store it safely because the IMEI is sensitive device data.
Alternative Methods to Find IMEI on iPhone 16
If your iPhone screen is cracked, the phone will not turn on, or you just want a different method, try one of these options.
Check the SIM tray
- On some iPhone models, the IMEI is printed on the SIM tray.
- Remove the tray carefully and look closely for the small engraved number.
- This is harder to read, so good lighting may help.
Look at the original iPhone box
- The barcode label on the box usually includes the IMEI, serial number, and other device details.
- This is a good backup if the phone is not working.
Use your Apple Account device list
- Sign in to your Apple Account on another Apple device or through the Apple Account website.
- Select your iPhone 16 from the device list.
- You may see the serial number and related device information, depending on what is available.
Use your carrier account
- Some mobile carriers store the IMEI for active devices on your account.
- Log in to your carrier app or website and check the device details section.
Dial a code in the Phone app
- Open Phone, go to the keypad, and enter *`#06#`**.
- In many regions, the IMEI appears on screen right away.
- If this does not work, use Settings instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an IMEI on iPhone 16?
The IMEI is a unique 15-digit identification number for your iPhone 16. Carriers, Apple, and insurance companies use it to identify the device on mobile networks.
Is IMEI the same as serial number?
No. The IMEI is used mainly for mobile network identification, while the serial number is used by Apple for service, warranty, and support records.
Will I see two IMEIs on iPhone 16?
If your iPhone 16 supports dual SIM or eSIM, you may see IMEI and IMEI2. That means the phone can support more than one cellular line.
Can I find the IMEI if my iPhone 16 is off?
Yes. You can still check the original box, SIM tray, carrier account, or your Apple Account device list.
Is it safe to share my IMEI?
Share it only with trusted parties like Apple, your carrier, or a buyer you trust. The IMEI is not a password, but it is still sensitive device information.
Tips
- Keep a copy of your IMEI in a secure place, like a password manager or encrypted notes app.
- If you are selling your iPhone 16, include the IMEI in your records but do not post it publicly.
- If your carrier asks for the IMEI, send the full 15-digit number exactly as shown.
- If you see both IMEI and IMEI2, check which line is active before sharing device details.
- For the fastest result, use Settings first. It is usually easier than checking the box or SIM tray.
Troubleshooting
- If you cannot find IMEI in Settings, make sure you are on Settings > General > About and scroll slowly. The number can be lower on the page.
- If the phone will not turn on, check the box label or SIM tray instead. Those are the best offline backups.
- If *`#06#` does nothing, use the Settings** method. Some carriers or regions may not support the dial code.
- If the IMEI looks hard to read on the SIM tray, use a flashlight and magnify the text with your camera zoom.
- If your phone was replaced by Apple, make sure you are checking the IMEI for the current device, not an old box or backup record.
- If the number seems too short or has spaces, copy it directly from About to avoid typing mistakes.
Conclusion
Finding the IMEI on an iPhone 16 is simple once you know where to look. For most people, Settings > General > About is the fastest route, and it gives you the exact number you need in seconds.
If your iPhone is unavailable, you still have solid backup options like the SIM tray, the original box, your Apple Account, or your carrier account. That makes it easy to get the IMEI whether you are setting up service, troubleshooting a device, or preparing to sell it.

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.