Tutorial to Change Android IMEI without Root: A Comprehensive Guide
Sep 01, 2023 • Filed to: Remove Screen Lock • Proven solutions
As an Android device user, you may have come across a situation where you need to change your device IMEI number. The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is a unique 15-digit number assigned to every mobile device, such as smartphones and tablets. This number serves as an identifier, helping to distinguish your device from millions of others. One of the main reasons people want to change their Android IMEI number is to unblock a device that has been blacklisted by their network provider. Other reasons include accessing certain network features and services or maintaining anonymity.
Changing your Android IMEI without root access may seem like a daunting task, but this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. Before proceeding, please note that altering your device's IMEI number can be illegal in some countries, and may void your warranty. Proceed with caution and at your own risk.
Part 1: What is IMEI and Why People Change The IMEI Number
The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is a unique identifier for every mobile device. It allows network providers and manufacturers to track and block devices if they are reported as lost or stolen. Changing your device's IMEI can help to unblock a blacklisted device, access certain network features and services, or maintain anonymity. However, be aware that altering your IMEI number is illegal in some countries and may void your warranty.
There are several uses of the IMEI number:
- As the use of mobile devices increases, the statistics of stolen and lost devices have been increasing as well. Users can block stolen or lost devices for further usage if they know their IMEI number. All users need to call their network carrier and report that the device is stolen or lost. The carrier can block the specific device from running on their network and notify other carriers.
- The 15-digit IMEI number indicates the origin and model of the device. The first eight digits indicate the device's origin and its model while the last six digits identify the device's manufacturer.
- If you subscribe to a mobile tracking service, you can use the IMEI number to track the device---even if it uses a different SIM card.
Pros and Cons of Changing Android IMEI
Like many other things out there, changing Android IMEI has both advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of them:
Advantages
- Make your Android untraceable. By constantly changing your IMEI, you will throw off the tracks of people using it to stalk you!
- Fix any invalid IMEI-related issues such as lost or invalid IMEI numbers. Once you change your IMEI, your Android device with the same benefits and features.
- Obtaining a completely new device ID.
- Changing the IMEI number to one that indicates it is a newer model, you will be able to enjoy new OS updates by resetting, repairing, and updating your Android device.
- Have you ever yearned for that cheap BlackBerry plan your network carrier keeps on promoting? The 15-digit IMEI indicates the origin and model of your device. Therefore, by changing your Android's IMEI number to that of a BlackBerry's, you will be able to subscribe to a cheaper mobile plan.
Disadvantages
- Before we begin, we need to make it clear that the process of changing IMEI without root can be illegal in some countries. We advise you to check the laws and regulations in your country before attempting to change your device’s IMEI number. As far as we know, it is legal in Africa and Asia, and illegal in Europe.
- The IMEI number is hardcoded into your device. Therefore, changing your device’s IMEI number may void your device warranty and cause other issues such as network problems and software instability.
- Legally, you have forfeited your ownership of your mobile device. When you purchase your device, the seller will jot down the original IMEI number on your receipt. So if you changed your IMEI and lost it, you may not be able to claim it. This is because authorities cannot see if it is truly yours. After all, the IMEI numbers no longer correlate with each other.
Part 2: How to Find the IMEI on an Android? (5 Ways)
It is essential to know your Android device's IMEI for various reasons, such as registering the device, reporting it as stolen or lost, checking warranty status, or verifying its authenticity. In this part, we will walk you through the various methods on how to find the IMEI on your Android device.
Method 1: Locate IMEI through the Settings App
One of the easiest ways to find the IMEI number on your Android device is through the Settings app. Follow these simple steps:
- Step 1:Open the "Settings" app on your Android device.
- Step 2:Scroll down and tap on "About phone" or "About device".
- Step 3:Tap on "Status" or "IMEI information".
- Step 4:You will see your IMEI number displayed on the screen. Note this down or take a screenshot for reference.
Method 2: Use the Dialer App
Another quick method to find the IMEI number is by using the dialer app on your Android smartphone. Here's how:
- Step 1:Open the "Phone" app or "Dialer" app on your Android device.
- Step 2:Dial *#06# on the keypad.
- Step 3:The IMEI number will be displayed on the screen. Note it down or take a screenshot for reference.
Method 3: Check the Device Packaging or Receipt
If you still have the original packaging or receipt for your Android device, you may find the IMEI number printed on it. Look for a label or sticker on the box that contains the device's details, including the IMEI number.
Method 4: Find IMEI on a Removable Battery (for older devices)
For older Android devices with removable batteries, you can find the IMEI number printed on a sticker underneath the battery. To locate it, follow these steps:
- Step 1:Power off your Android device.
- Step 2:Remove the back cover and take out the battery.
- Step 3:Look for a sticker or printed text with the IMEI number.
- Step 4:Note it down or take a photo for reference.
Method 5: Check the SIM Card Tray
Some Android devices have the IMEI number printed on the SIM card tray. To check if your device has this feature:
- Step 1:Power off your Android device.
- Step 2:Use the SIM card removal tool (or a paperclip) to eject the SIM card tray.
- Step 3:Look for the IMEI number printed on the tray.
- Step 4:Note it down or take a photo for reference.
Part 3: Requirements for Changing Android IMEI without Root
Before you begin the process of changing your Android IMEI without root, there are a few things you will need:
- A compatible Android device: The methods detailed in this guide are specifically for MediaTek (MTK) devices. Ensure that your device has a MediaTek chipset before proceeding..
- A new IMEI number: You'll need a valid IMEI number to replace the current one on your device. You can either generate one using an IMEI generator tool or use the IMEI number of an old, unused device..
- A stable internet connection: Some of the methods require you to download apps and modules, so make sure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection.
- Back up your Android phone: Before making any changes to your device, it is always recommended to backup your data. This will help you to avoid any data loss in case anything goes wrong during the process. You can backup your device data using Google backup or a local backup software like Wondershare Dr.Fone.
Wondershare Dr.Fone is a tool that helps you keep your important data safe. It can back up all the important information on your Android phone or tablet, like photos, music, videos, contacts, and more and is compatible with over 8000 Android devices. The backup process is easy and only takes a few clicks. You can also restore your backup to any device you want, and choose which data you want to restore. This is a great way to make sure you never lose your important information!
Part 4: How to Change Android IMEI Number without Root?
There are several methods to change your Android IMEI without root access. This tutorial will cover three popular methods: using MobileUncle Tools, Xposed Installer and IMEI Changer Pro, and MTK Engineering Mode.
1. Using Xposed Installer and IMEI Changer Pro
This IMEI changer Android app is built to allow a user to change the series of numbers that make up their devices' IMEI identification. Randomized IMEI numbers will be generated every time the app is used. However, users can type in a new IMEI number in the text field if they have a specific number in mind. This no-ads app is really simple to use--to complete the change, a user will only need to click the "Apply" button and restart their devices. Its interface is also simple enough for easy navigation.
This method involves using the Xposed Installer app to install the IMEI Changer Pro module. Follow the steps below:
- Step 1: Download and install the Xposed Installer app from a trusted source.
- Step 2: Open the app and go to the "Framework" section. Tap on "Install/Update" to install the Xposed Framework on your device. Reboot your device once the installation is complete.
- Step 3: Download and install the IMEI Changer Pro app from a trusted source.
- Step 4: Launch the Xposed Installer app again, and go to the "Modules" section. Enable the IMEI Changer Pro module by checking the box next to it.
- Step 5: Reboot your device for the changes to take effect.
- Step 6: Open the IMEI Changer Pro app and enter your new IMEI number in the provided field.
- Step 7: Tap on the "Apply" button, and then restart your device. Your new IMEI number should now be active.
2. Using MobileUncle Tools
MobileUncle Tools is a simple Android application that can retrieve your Android device's information, backup IMEI, change its IMEI, and search for its recovery files. It will also be able to assist you with any rebooting needs and many more!
Follow these steps to change your IMEI using MobileUncle Tools:
- Step 1: Download the MobileUncle Tools app from a trusted source and install it on your device.
- Step 2: Open the app and grant the necessary permissions.
- Step 3: From the main menu, select "Engineer Mode".
- Step 4: In the Engineer Mode, select "MTK".
- Step 5: Scroll down and tap on "Connectivity".
- Step 6: Next, tap on "CDS Information".
- Step 7: Select "Radio Information".
- Step 8: ou will see two options: Phone 1 and Phone 2. Choose the one corresponding to the SIM slot for which you want to change the IMEI.
- Step 9: In the input field, type "AT+EGMR=1,7," followed by your new IMEI number within double quotes. For example: AT+EGMR=1,7,"123456789012345".
- Step 10: Tap on the "Send AT Command" button. You should see a message confirming that the command has been sent successfully.
- Step 11: Restart your device. The new IMEI number should now be active.
3. Using MTK Engineering Mode
MTK Engineering Mode is another app designed for MediaTek devices that allows users to access hidden settings and options. It was specifically made for Taiwanese device manufacturers such as Tecno, Infinix, Elephone, Oppo, Chuwi, etc. While not fully recommended, reports have been that it works with Android devices made by non-Taiwanese manufacturers. Its clean interface makes navigating the app seamlessly.
Follow these steps to change your IMEI using MTK Engineering Mode:
- Step 1: Download and install the MTK Engineering Mode app from a trusted source.
- Step 2: Launch the app and select "MTK Settings".
- Step 3: Scroll down and tap on "Connectivity".
- Step 4: Next, tap on "CDS Information".
- Step 5: elect "Radio Information".
- Step 6: Choose either Phone 1 or Phone 2, depending on the SIM slot for which you want to change the IMEI.
- Step 7: Enter the following command in the input field: AT+EGMR=1,7,"Your_New_IMEI_Number".
- Step 8: Tap on the "Send AT Command" button. A confirmation message should appear.
- Step 9: Restart your device, and the new IMEI number should be active.
Conclusion
By using the Android IMEI changer, you will neither lose your data nor need to root your device in your pursuit of changing your device's IMEI number. However, do remember that every situation is different, and there will come a time when you need to root your device before changing your Android's IMEI number. We advise you to use this tutorial only for legal purposes and to check the laws and regulations in your country before attempting to change your device’s IMEI number.
You will also need the IMEI number if you want to unlock your phone and use it on another carrier provider. There are a lot of SIM Unlock services out there. It is important to choose a trustworthy and workable service to unlock your phone.
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Selena Lee
chief Editor