Why Does Your iPhone Have Two IMEI Numbers?

Beatriz
•
Mar 15, 2025

Imagine you’re using an iPhone 12 Pro Max and suddenly notice that there are two IMEI numbers showing up on the screen. It’s easy to feel a little concerned, thinking something might be wrong or that your security is at risk. But the truth is, this is actually pretty normal for newer iPhones.

In this article, we’ll clear up any confusion by explaining why you see two IMEI numbers and walk you through simple steps to resolve any issues.

Why you see two IMEI numbers and walk you through simple steps to resolve any issues.

What is an IMEI Number?

An IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit number assigned to every mobile phone. It is used by mobile networks to identify and track devices. The IMEI also helps check if a phone is eligible for services, repairs, or warranties and is needed to activate and register a new device with the network.

Additionally, if a phone is lost or stolen, the IMEI number can be used to block the device from accessing networks. It also provides information about the device’s brand, model, and specifications. Network providers use this number to check if a phone is valid for service and where it was originally sold, with the information stored in a database called the Equipment Identity Register (EIR).

The IMEI number follows the format AA-BBBBBB-CCCCCC-D and is used by mobile networks to identify and track devices.

Why You Should Care?

The IMEI number is important for several reasons. For instance, if your phone is lost or stolen, you can report the IMEI to your mobile operator, which can block the device, making it unusable even with a new SIM card. When buying a used phone, you can check the IMEI to ensure it’s not stolen or blacklisted. The IMEI also reveals details about your phone, such as its brand, model, and release year, without needing physical access. In emergencies, responders can use the IMEI to contact people when cell networks are overloaded.

Don’t get confused: IMEI numbers are not the same as SIM card numbers and don’t store personal user information. However, they both are crucial for identifying and securing your devices in mobile networks.

Why Does Your iPhone Have Two IMEI Numbers?

Your iPhone, like many modern smartphones, has two IMEI numbers because it supports dual-SIM functionality, meaning it can use both a physical SIM card and an eSIM, or two physical SIM cards at the same time. Each SIM (or eSIM) gets its own unique IMEI number.

This dual-SIM functionality allows you to:

Manage Data and Calls Separately: You can dedicate one SIM for data and the other for calls, which can help optimize your usage and potentially save on data costs.
Use Local Deals: If you’re in a country with good local network deals, you can take advantage of them without needing to swap out your main SIM.
Avoid Roaming Fees: If you’re traveling abroad, you can use a local SIM for cheaper data and call rates, while keeping your home number active for important calls or texts.
Test New Networks: You can try out different carriers without switching phones, helping you figure out which network gives you the best coverage or deals.

IMEI 1: The Device’s Primary IMEI

IMEI 1 is a 15-digit number that acts as a unique identifier for a mobile device’s primary cellular function. It’s used by cellular networks to identify the device, ensuring it’s eligible to connect and track stolen devices. The number contains information like the manufacturer, model, and serial number of the device. For single-SIM phones, IMEI 1 is the only IMEI, but for dual-SIM phones, it refers to the primary SIM slot.

Where to Find the IMEI 1?

To find your phone’s IMEI number (which is like a unique ID for your device), you can use one of these methods:

Dial *#06#: Just open the phone’s dialer and type *#06#. Your IMEI number will pop up on the screen.

For dual SIM phones, the IMEI for SIM 1 usually shows up first. It’s smart to write it down and keep it safe because you’ll need it if your phone gets lost, if you want to unlock it, or if you’re buying a used one.

Check in your device settings:

For iPhone: Go to Settings > General > About. Scroll down, and you’ll find the IMEI number listed.
For Android: Go to Settings > About Phone > Status. Look for the IMEI number.
Look at your phone’s packaging: If you still have the box your phone came in, the IMEI number is usually printed on a sticker on the packaging.
Check the SIM tray: On some phones, you might find the IMEI number printed on or near the SIM card tray.
Under the battery: If your phone has a removable battery, take it out, and you might find the IMEI number printed on a sticker inside.
Look at the back panel or frame: On some phones, the IMEI is printed on the back of the device or on the side frame.

IMEI 2: The eSIM IMEI

IMEI 2 is a unique 15-digit number that identifies the second SIM slot in a dual-SIM phone. This slot can either be for a physical SIM card or an eSIM. In phones with both a physical SIM and an eSIM, IMEI 2 helps network providers recognize and verify the second slot so it can connect to the network correctly. It’s important for setting up and managing eSIM services and ensuring digital SIM profiles are activated and secure.

Essentially, IMEI 2 lets your phone use two mobile numbers or plans at the same time, regardless of whether one is a physical SIM or eSIM. It’s found in phones with dual SIM technology, which makes it easier to manage and switch between different mobile connections.

Related: What is an eSIM?

Where Can You Find the IMEI 2?

Here’s how you can find your phone’s IMEI 2 number:

Dial #06# on your device: This will display both IMEI 1 and IMEI 2 (IMEI 2 is usually the second number).

Device settings:

For iPhones: Go to Settings > General > About. Scroll down, and you’ll find the IMEI numbers.
For Android phones: Go to Settings > About Phone > Status. Look for the IMEI numbers.
eSIM settings: If your device has eSIM, the IMEI 2 may be listed in the eSIM settings menu.
Original documentation or packaging: If you still have the box or the manual that came with the device, IMEI 2 might be listed there.
IMEI 2 and eSIM: If your phone supports both a physical SIM and eSIM, IMEI 2 is typically the number tied to the eSIM.

Remember that the IMEI 2 only appears on dual-SIM or eSIM-compatible phones. If your phone only supports a single SIM, it won’t have an IMEI 2.

The Structure of the IMEI Number Explained

Breaking Down the 15 Digits:

Digits 1-2: Reporting Body Identifier: This indicates the organization that allocated the IMEI (e.g., CTIA, TUV).
Digits 3-8: Brand and Model Identifier: Identifies the specific brand and model of the device.
Digits 9-14: Serial Number: A unique identifier for each individual device.
Digit 15: Check Digit (Luhn Algorithm): A checksum used to verify the validity of the IMEI number.

Why This Structure Matters:

Ensures each device is distinguishable, preventing fraud and ensuring network integrity.

The IMEI number helps identify your phone on mobile networks and makes sure it’s distinct from other devices. Here’s what each part means:

The format of the IMEI number is: AA-BBBBBB-CCCCCC-D.

Digits 1-2 (AA): Reporting Body Identifier

These two digits show which organization assigned the IMEI. Different countries or organizations have their own codes. For example:

01 might indicate the CTIA (a US organization),
35 could represent BABT (a UK organization),
86 could mean TAF (China).

Digits 3-8 (BBBBBB): Type Allocation Code (TAC)

These six digits, combined with the Reporting Body Identifier, represent the model and brand of the device. So, if you see these digits, it tells you exactly what phone or device it is.

Digits 9-14 (CCCCCC): Serial Number

These six digits are unique to each device. They help differentiate devices of the same model, so even if two phones are the same make and model, their serial numbers will be different.

Digit 15 (D): Check Digit

The final digit is used for a verification process. It helps confirm that the IMEI is valid and correct. It’s calculated using a method called the Luhn algorithm, which checks the accuracy of the entire IMEI number.

Additional Notes:

The first 8 digits (AA-BBBBBB) together form the complete Type Allocation Code (TAC).
The IMEI structure is specified in 3GPP TS 23.003.
Some devices may display a 16-digit IMEISV (IMEI Software Version), where the last two digits represent the software version instead of a single check digit.

Why Carry Two SIM Cards When One eSIM Does It All?

If you’ve ever had to juggle two physical SIM cards while traveling, you know how annoying it can be to swap them in and out. The great thing is, with an eSIM from your preferred provider, you won’t need to do that anymore.

Get started with Yoho Mobile today and enjoy the convenience of managing multiple data plans directly on your phone!

Get Your eSIM - Yoho Mobile