The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is a unique identifier assigned to each mobile device. It’s crucial for tracking, unlocking, and verifying the authenticity of your phone. Whether you need to check if your Google Pixel is genuine, ensure it’s not reported as stolen, or you need it for unlocking purposes, knowing how to find your device’s IMEI number is essential.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different ways you can check the IMEI number on your Google Pixel device, how to use it for various purposes, and why it’s important to keep it handy.
What is an IMEI Number?
Before we dive into how to check your IMEI number, it’s important to understand what it is and why it matters. The IMEI number is a 15-digit code that is unique to every mobile phone. It is used by network providers and law enforcement agencies to track phones in case they are lost or stolen. The IMEI number can also be used to check if a phone is locked to a particular carrier, and it’s often required when unlocking a phone for use with different networks.
For Google Pixel owners, having your IMEI number can be helpful in several situations. For example, when you’re registering your device, asking for customer support, or verifying if the phone is blacklisted or reported as stolen, the IMEI number plays a key role.
How to Check Your Google Pixel IMEI Number
There are several ways to find the IMEI number on your Google Pixel phone, depending on your preferences and what method is most convenient. Here are the most common ways:
Method 1: Check Through the Phone Settings
The easiest and most common way to find your IMEI number is through your phone’s settings. Here’s how:
- Open the Settings app on your Google Pixel.
- Scroll down and tap About phone.
- Tap Status.
- Look for the IMEI section. Your 15-digit IMEI number will be listed here.
This method is straightforward and works on most Android phones, including the Google Pixel. It’s a great option if your phone is functioning and you have access to its settings.
Method 2: Dial the USSD Code
Another quick way to check your IMEI number is by dialing a special USSD code directly on your Google Pixel. Here’s how to do it:
- Open the Phone app on your Google Pixel.
- Dial *#06#.
- Your IMEI number will immediately appear on the screen.
This method works on most Android smartphones and is especially useful if you can’t access the settings menu for some reason, like when your phone’s screen is unresponsive.
Method 3: Check the IMEI on the Phone’s Box
If you still have the original packaging of your Google Pixel, the IMEI number is often printed on the box. Here’s what to do:
- Look for the barcode label on the box of your Google Pixel.
- You should see the IMEI number printed alongside other information like the model number and serial number.
This method is perfect if you’ve kept the box and need to check the IMEI but don’t have access to the phone itself or its settings.
Method 4: Check the IMEI via Google Account
For users who have linked their Google Pixel to their Google account, you can check the IMEI number through your Google account settings. Here’s how:
- Visit the Google Play website (play.google.com) on a computer or web browser.
- Log into the Google account associated with your Google Pixel.
- Go to My Devices.
- Select your Google Pixel device from the list of connected devices.
- The IMEI number may be listed along with other device details.
This method can be particularly helpful if you’ve misplaced the phone but still have access to your Google account.
Why is the IMEI Number Important?
Now that you know how to check the IMEI number, it’s important to understand why it matters. The IMEI number serves several purposes, including:
Tracking and Locking Stolen Phones
One of the most important uses of the IMEI number is for tracking stolen devices. If your Google Pixel is lost or stolen, you can report the IMEI number to your carrier or the police. By doing this, they can flag the device as stolen, preventing it from being used on most networks. The IMEI number can also help recover the device, as law enforcement can track it through various systems.
Unlocking Your Phone
If you want to switch to a different carrier, you may need to unlock your Google Pixel. The IMEI number is often required when you request to unlock your phone from your carrier. This number allows them to verify the device’s eligibility for unlocking, such as confirming whether it’s paid off or under contract.
Checking if the Phone is Blacklisted
In some cases, a phone may be blacklisted if it’s reported as stolen or if there are issues with the device’s status. You can check the IMEI number on various online platforms to determine if your phone is blacklisted. If it is, you may encounter issues like not being able to use it with certain carriers or networks. It’s a good idea to check the IMEI before purchasing a used phone to ensure it’s not blacklisted.
Device Warranty and Support
When you contact Google support for a warranty claim or technical assistance, the IMEI number may be required to verify the authenticity of your device. The IMEI helps Google confirm that the device is eligible for warranty support and is genuine. Having this number on hand can speed up the process when dealing with support or warranty claims.
Ensuring Authenticity
In some cases, especially if you’ve purchased a second-hand Google Pixel, the IMEI number can help verify whether the phone is genuine or counterfeit. If you suspect the phone is not authentic, you can check the IMEI with Google or a third-party IMEI checker to confirm its legitimacy.
What to Do If You Can’t Find Your IMEI Number
If you’re having trouble locating your Google Pixel’s IMEI number, consider these troubleshooting tips:
- Check for Physical Damage: If your phone’s screen is damaged or unresponsive, use the dialer method (*#06#) to quickly check the IMEI number.
- Use Google’s Support: If you’ve lost access to your phone, you can contact Google support for assistance in retrieving the IMEI number or reporting the device.
- IMEI Lookup Services: There are several third-party websites where you can enter your IMEI number to check if it’s blacklisted or if it matches the model.
Your Google Pixel’s IMEI number is an essential piece of information that you may need for a variety of reasons, from unlocking your phone to reporting it as stolen. Fortunately, checking your IMEI is easy, and there are several methods available depending on your situation. Whether you’re looking for your IMEI to confirm authenticity or track down a lost phone, it’s a good idea to keep this number handy and know how to access it quickly.
By following the steps outlined above, you can easily check the IMEI number on your Google Pixel and use it for any necessary tasks related to your device.