The Full form of IMEI is International Mobile Equipment Identity. IMEI number is a unique set of 15-17 digits used on GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) phones to identify them. The SIM card of any telecommunication company is associated with the user and it can be swapped from one phone to another phone, so, it is a method needed to keep track of the hardware itself. IMEI is a number or a code that identifies a specific mobile or cell phone used over a mobile network. Normally, it is printed at the back side on the battery of the mobile.
Anyone can check his mobile phone IMEI number by dialing *#06#. IMEI number shows the information about the model number, serial number of device, and origin. For example, if an IMEI number is XX-YYYYYY-ZZZZZZ-A/BB, then the number XX shows reporting body identifier, which is a part of TAC and shows the mobile phone brand and model. The number YYYYYY is also a part of TAC (Type Allocation Code), the number ZZZZZZ represents the serial number and the rest shows the software version number.
IMEI number is used in the case when the mobile is lost. So, if a user’s phone is lost or stolen, he can provide the IMEI number to the mobile network provider and ask them to disable the phone.