IMEI vs IMEI2: A Quick Guide for Dual SIM Users

In this article, we explore the difference between IMEI1 and IMEI2, two unique identification numbers assigned to mobile phones. While both serve the same purpose of identifying and verifying devices on mobile networks, it’s important to understand their differences, especially for dual-SIM or eSIM phones. We’ll also look at common issues related to IMEI numbers, and how to troubleshoot them.

 

What is the difference between IMEI1 and IMEI2?

Every mobile phone has a unique identification number called an IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity), which helps identify the device, verify it on networks, and assist with security features like blocking stolen phones.

If a phone has only one SIM slot, it has just one IMEI. However, if it supports two SIMs (either physical or an eSIM), it will have two IMEI numbers: IMEI for the first SIM slot and IMEI2 for the second.

Both IMEI numbers serve the same function but they correspond to different SIM connections. This is especially useful for users who want to separate personal and business numbers or use different networks while traveling. Some mobile carriers may register your phone based on either IMEI1 or IMEI2, depending on which SIM slot is active. If you experience network issues, knowing both IMEI numbers can help resolve problems.

 

Why the IMEI 2 May Look Different

IMEI 2 might look different from IMEI 1 for a few reasons. If your phone supports both a physical SIM and an eSIM, IMEI 2 is often linked to the eSIM, which may follow a different format. Manufacturers also assign IMEIs from different number ranges, so the two might not look identical.

In some cases, IMEI 2 could actually be an IMEISV, meaning it includes extra digits for the software version, making it 16 digits long instead of 15. The way your phone displays the IMEIs, either in settings or when you dial *#06#, can also vary—sometimes the format (like spaces or hyphens) is different.

Plus, different phone brands may have their own methods for assigning and showing IMEI numbers. Despite these differences, both IMEI 1 and IMEI 2 uniquely identify your phone on mobile networks.

For more information, read this article: Why Does Your iPhone Have Two IMEI Numbers?

 

Functions and Importance of IMEI Numbers

The IMEI number is crucial for security, fraud prevention, and ensuring only legal devices work on mobile networks. Here are some of its functions:

• Identifies Your Phone: Even if two phones look exactly the same (same brand and model), their IMEI numbers are different. Mobile networks and manufacturers use this number to tell devices apart.
• Helps Find Lost or Stolen Phones: If you lose your phone or someone steals it, the IMEI number can help track its location. Police and mobile service providers can use it to try to recover the device.
• Blocks Stolen Phones from Being Used: If a phone is reported lost or stolen, mobile networks can block its IMEI so it won’t work on most carriers. This makes it useless to thieves because they can’t connect it to a network.
• Prevents Fraud and Stops Blacklisted Phones: Stolen phones with blocked IMEIs are put on a blacklist database, meaning they won’t work on participating networks worldwide. This prevents criminals from selling stolen devices as if they were new.
• Ensures Phones Follow the Rules: IMEI numbers help authorities stop fake, unapproved, or illegally imported phones from being sold. Every legal phone must have a valid IMEI registered under telecom standards.
• Needed for Warranty and Repairs: If you need to claim a warranty or repair your phone, the manufacturer or service provider will check the IMEI to confirm it’s a valid device.
• Protects Second-Hand Buyers: If you’re buying a used phone, you can check its IMEI to see if it’s stolen or blacklisted. This helps you avoid scams and bad deals.

Why is the IMEI Number Important?

• Protects Your Phone: If your phone is stolen, its IMEI can be blocked to stop anyone else from using it.
• Keeps Mobile Networks Safe: Prevents fake, illegal, or unauthorized phones from connecting.
• Supports Global Anti-Theft Efforts: Many countries and networks work together to track and block stolen devices.
• Protects Your Privacy: The IMEI tracks the device, not your personal data, so your information stays private.

Knowing your phone’s IMEI can be useful in case of theft, fraud, or repairs. You can usually find it by dialing *#06# on your phone or checking the settings.

 

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Your phone’s IMEI helps keep it secure, prevents theft, and ensures it works well with different networks. But even more important is having an easy and affordable way to stay connected while traveling—try Yoho Mobile!

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Troubleshooting Common IMEI Issues

IMEI Number Not Found or Invalid

An “IMEI Number Not Found or Invalid” issue means your phone’s unique identification code is missing, incorrect, or unrecognized by mobile networks. This can prevent you from making calls, accessing mobile data, or even registering your device with a carrier. Common causes include software issues like failed updates, factory resets, or flashing a custom ROM, as well as hardware damage to essential components like the baseband chip.

To fix it, first check if the IMEI is missing:

• Dial *#06# on your phone.
• If no number appears or it says “Invalid,” then the IMEI is missing.

To allow advanced repair tools to access your phone, turn on USB debugging:

• Go to Settings > Developer Options > Enable USB Debugging.
• This allows you to use advanced repair tools.

If your phone uses a MediaTek (MTK) processor, you can restore the IMEI using the MTK Engineering Mode app:

• Download an app called Mobile MTK Engineering Mode.
• Open the app and go to Connectivity > CDS Information > Radio Information.
• Type this command (replace YOUR-IMEI-HERE with your actual IMEI):
  • For single SIM: AT +EGMR=1,7, “YOUR-IMEI-HERE”
  • For dual SIM: AT +EGMR=1,10, “YOUR-IMEI-HERE”
• Press “Send” and restart your phone.

If the above methods don’t work, you may need to reload your phone’s modem firmware file (modem.img) (for advanced users only):

• This requires flashing the correct software for your phone model.
• Use tools like SP Flash Tool or QFIL (depending on your phone’s chipset).
• Be careful, as flashing the wrong firmware can damage your phone.

IMEI Blacklisted

When a mobile device’s IMEI number is blacklisted, it means that the device has been flagged due to issues like theft, loss, unpaid bills, or fraud. The IMEI, a unique identifier for mobile devices, gets placed on a blacklist by cellular carriers or authorities, preventing the device from accessing mobile networks.

Here’s how you can fix your phone’s IMEI blacklisted:

• Contact the carrier: If you bought the device legally and the IMEI is blacklisted by mistake, contact your carrier. You’ll need to show proof of purchase, a government ID, and the IMEI number of the device.
• Report to authorities: If the phone was stolen, you should report it to the police and the carrier. This will help you with getting the IMEI removed from the blacklist.
• Get a refund or replacement: If you bought the phone from an unauthorized seller, try to get your money back or ask for a replacement.
• Pay outstanding balance: If the phone is blacklisted due to unpaid bills, pay the debt to the carrier, and they may remove it from the blacklist.
• Be careful with IMEI repair services: Be careful with services that claim to remove IMEI blacklisting. They may not be legal or reliable, depending on where you live.

Remember that trying to modify IMEI numbers is illegal in some countries, so always aim to restore the original one rather than change it.

IMEI Cloning or IMEI Conflict

IMEI cloning refers to the illegal practice of duplicating a mobile phone’s IMEI number, which is a unique identifier for every phone. This can cause problems when two devices with the same IMEI try to connect to a network, leading to conflicts. The causes of IMEI cloning include malicious attacks where hackers copy a phone’s IMEI to create a duplicate, manufacturing errors that accidentally assign the same IMEI to two devices, or software modifications that alter the IMEI.

IMEI cloning or IMEI conflict can cause issues with your phone’s ability to connect to a network or other devices. Here’s how to fix these problems:

• Contact your carrier: If you notice any strange behavior with your phone, such as not connecting to the network or appearing as though your IMEI is being used elsewhere, call your carrier. They can investigate and help resolve the issue.
• Change your IMEI: If necessary, the IMEI should only be changed through official channels or an authorized service center.
• Factory reset: A factory reset may resolve software-related issues causing the conflict.
• Replace your device: If the issue is severe and persistent, buying a new phone may be necessary.
• Legal action: If cloning is done maliciously, you can report it to the authorities.

To prevent IMEI cloning or IMEI conflict from happening, here are some important measures:

• Keep Your IMEI Private: Do not share your IMEI publicly to reduce the risk of cloning.
• Use Strong Device Security: Ensure your phone is password-protected and use biometric security like fingerprints.
• Install Anti-Theft Software: Protect your phone with security software that helps track and lock it if lost or stolen.
• Regular Software Updates: Keeping your phone updated ensures protection against potential software vulnerabilities.
• Monitor for Suspicious Activity: Be on the lookout for any unusual activity on your device that could indicate your IMEI is being used fraudulently.

IMEI Not Recognized by Network

When your phone’s IMEI is not recognized by a network, it means that your device can’t connect to cellular services. This usually happens because the network can’t verify your phone’s unique ID. Other possible causes include the phone’s IMEI being blacklisted (maybe because it’s been reported as stolen), the phone being locked to a specific carrier, or software problems that cause the IMEI to not show up correctly. Additionally, hardware issues, like a damaged SIM card slot, could prevent recognition.

If this happens, you can check if your IMEI is valid by dialing *#06#, update your phone’s software, or contact the carrier to ensure there isn’t an issue with the IMEI or network compatibility. In some cases, fixing this might involve unlocking the phone, performing a factory reset, or even visiting a service center. If none of these work, you might need to consider replacing the phone for a consistent network connection.

IMEI Changed After Repair

When a device’s IMEI number changes after a repair, it means that the unique identifier used to track the device has been altered. This change may cause problems with your phone’s connection to the network, like being unable to make calls, send texts, or access data. It can also affect your phone’s security features, such as tracking the device in case it’s lost or stolen. Additionally, an IMEI change could potentially invalidate your warranty, as manufacturers use the IMEI to verify warranty claims.

Precisely, an IMEI could change if the phone’s motherboard is replaced, unauthorized parts are used, or repairs are done improperly or due to software errors. Essentially, any hardware tampering or software manipulation might alter the device’s unique IMEI identifier.

To fix an IMEI change after a repair, the first step is to contact the repair service provider and request documentation of the repair and the IMEI change. It’s important to verify whether this change was necessary and authorized. Once confirmed, you’ll need to tell your mobile carrier about the new IMEI so they can update their records and make sure your phone works properly on their network. You should also inform the phone manufacturer to update your warranty details. Test your phone to make sure calls, texts, and data work. Update any tracking or anti-theft apps with the new IMEI, and let your insurance provider know if needed. Keep all the documents safe in case you need them later.

Unable to Unlock Phone Due to IMEI Issues

When you see a message saying your phone can’t be unlocked due to an IMEI issue, it means that the phone’s unique identification number isn’t being accepted by other networks. This can happen for several reasons: the IMEI might be blacklisted because the phone was reported lost, stolen, or has outstanding bills; it could be invalid or corrupted from software glitches or unauthorized modifications; there might be a problem with the operating system or even physical damage to the phone’s internal components that store the IMEI; or the phone might still be locked to its original carrier. Because of this, you might have trouble switching to a different network or using the phone internationally.

If you can’t unlock your phone because of an IMEI issue, here’s what you can do. First, contact your mobile carrier to see if your IMEI is blocked. This happens if the phone was reported stolen or there are unpaid bills. If it’s blocked, provide proof that you own the phone and settle any issues with your carrier. Next, check your IMEI by dialing *#06# and compare it with the one on your phone’s box or under the battery to make sure it matches. If the IMEI is fine but the phone still won’t unlock, try resetting your network settings or updating your phone’s software. If there’s a hardware issue, take it to an authorized repair center for help.

IMEI Shows as Invalid on eSIM Devices

If your eSIM device shows an “invalid IMEI” error, it means your phone can’t connect to a mobile network or use cellular services. This happens only with the eSIM, even if a physical SIM works fine. The issue could be caused by a software glitch, a wrong IMEI number entered during activation, or a problem with your mobile carrier’s system. Some carriers don’t support certain devices for eSIM, and outdated software can also cause issues.

There are a few ways to fix the issue. First, check that you’re using the correct IMEI by dialing *#06#, eSIMs usually have a second IMEI (IMEI2 or IMEI3). Ensure your device software is up to date, as updates often fix network-related bugs. Try resetting your network settings to refresh your connections. If the issue persists, contact your carrier to verify and activate the IMEI manually. If your carrier supports it, you can also delete and reinstall your eSIM profile. As a last resort, back up your data and perform a factory reset.

If the problem continues even after a factory reset, visit an authorized service center for further troubleshooting. Keep in mind that eSIM activation processes from one carrier to another, so always follow official guidelines and avoid unauthorized IMEI modifications, as these can cause even worse connectivity issues.

IMEI Not Updating After Network Change (e.g., Carrier Switch)

When you switch to a new phone carrier, your phone’s unique ID number (IMEI) might not update in their system. This can stop you from making calls, sending texts, or using data. The problem could be because the carrier’s system doesn’t update the IMEI correctly, your phone might not be supported by the new carrier, there could be a mistake when entering the IMEI, or the carrier’s system might not be up to date. Sometimes, issues with the new SIM card or its activation can also cause problems.

If your IMEI doesn’t update after switching carriers, check your IMEI by dialing *#06# and make sure it matches the one your carrier has. If not, contact your carrier’s support to ask them to update it. You can also reset your network settings on your phone to fix any connection issues. Make sure your phone and carrier settings are up-to-date. Some people find success by leaving the IMEI field empty and just entering the new SIM card number. If none of these steps work, you could try getting a new SIM card from your carrier. If nothing seems to help, reach out to higher technical support for further assistance.

 

Key Takeaways

After you’ve experienced any of these issues yourself or learned about them, you’ll realize just how important the IMEI is in keeping your device secure and connected. Knowing how to manage your IMEI can save you from a lot of hard moments.

Let’s break down the most important takeaways from this article:

• If You Have a Dual-SIM Phone, You Have Two IMEI Numbers: If you’re using a dual-SIM phone, it’ll have two unique IMEI numbers—one for each SIM slot. IMEI1 is usually for the primary SIM, and IMEI2 is for the second SIM or eSIM.
• Don’t Stress Over IMEI Discrepancies: Sometimes things go wrong with the IMEI number after updates or network changes. But don’t panic, most issues can be resolved through a quick software update or by contacting your carrier. It’s mostly nothing serious.
• Make Sure to Check the IMEI Before You Buy: If you’re thinking about buying a used phone, definitely check the IMEI first. This will help you avoid buying a blacklisted or stolen device. You can use online IMEI checkers to make sure it matches the phone details.
• Regularly Check Your IMEI: It’s a good idea to regularly check your IMEI by dialing *#06# on your phone. You should also check that your carrier recognizes it. This will help you spot any potential issues before they get worse.
• Reach Out for Help if You Find Any Issues: If you notice any problems with your IMEI, don’t hesitate to contact your carrier or the manufacturer.
• Back Up Your IMEI Number: It’s wise to store your IMEI number somewhere safe and separate from your phone. That way, if your phone is ever lost or stolen, you’ll have quick access to the info for insurance purposes.
• Know How Important Your IMEI Really Is: The IMEI number is crucial for securing your phone and keeping it connected to networks. It’s used for tracking stolen phones, claiming warranties, and ensuring that your device stays functional. Keeping track of it is a major step to avoiding bigger issues down the road.