When checking the settings and compatible devices for eSIM, you may come across a number called "IMEI."
"What is IMEI?" "Is IMEI necessary when using eSIM?" "What is the difference between IMEI and EID?" You may have these questions.
IMEI is a number used to identify mobile devices such as smartphones. It is not the number for the eSIM itself.
In this article, we will clearly explain the basic role of IMEI, how to check it on iPhone and Android, and the differences between IMEI2, EID, and ICCID.
Key Points about eSIM and IMEI
- IMEI is a number that identifies devices such as smartphones.
- IMEI does not identify the eSIM itself.
- On dual SIM compatible devices, both IMEI and IMEI2 may be displayed.
- EID and ICCID serve different roles.
- Just checking the IMEI does not confirm that the device supports eSIM.
What is IMEI?
IMEI stands for "International Mobile Equipment Identity" and is a number used to identify mobile devices such as smartphones.
It is assigned to each device and is used to identify the device on the communication network.
Even when using eSIM, IMEI is fundamentally identification information for the device. Therefore, it does not mean "IMEI = eSIM number."
What is IMEI used for with eSIM?
IMEI may be used as identification information for the device when communication providers or eSIM services check device information.
For example, when confirming the device before using eSIM or when contacting support regarding communication issues, you may be asked to provide the IMEI.
However, IMEI alone does not complete all eSIM settings. The installation of eSIM requires information specified by the service, such as QR codes or activation information.
Difference between IMEI and IMEI2
On smartphones that support dual SIM, you may see both "IMEI" and "IMEI2."
This is because the device has identification information corresponding to each mobile line to handle multiple mobile lines.
| Item | Main Meaning |
|---|---|
| IMEI | Number used to identify the mobile device and the line |
| IMEI2 | IMEI used for the second line on dual SIM devices |
Which IMEI corresponds to the eSIM may vary depending on the device's configuration. If a specific IMEI is required, please check with your communication provider or eSIM service for guidance.
Difference between IMEI and EID
When researching eSIM, you may see a number called "EID" displayed alongside IMEI.
IMEI and EID are not the same. They serve different roles, so be careful not to confuse them.
| Item | Role |
|---|---|
| IMEI | Number used to identify the mobile device |
| EID | Number used to identify the eUICC managing the eSIM within the device |
To put it simply, IMEI is "identification information for the mobile device," while EID is "identification information related to the eSIM function."
Difference between IMEI and ICCID
Another number that is easy to confuse is "ICCID."
ICCID is a number used to identify SIMs and serves a different role than IMEI. In the case of eSIM, you may also be able to check the ICCID related to the installed profile.
| Number | What does it identify? |
|---|---|
| IMEI | Mobile device |
| EID | eUICC managing the eSIM |
| ICCID | SIM/eSIM profile |
When setting up or inquiring about eSIM, you may be asked for one of these numbers.
How to check IMEI on iPhone
On iPhone, you can check the IMEI from the settings screen.
- Open "Settings"
- Select "General"
- Open "About"
- Check the IMEI item
On compatible iPhones, you may also be able to check IMEI2 and EID on the "About" screen.
The displayed content may vary depending on the model and iOS version.
How to check IMEI on Android
On Android, you can also check the IMEI from the device's settings screen.
However, the names and locations of the settings screens may differ by manufacturer, such as Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, Xiaomi, OPPO, and AQUOS.
Generally, you may be able to check the IMEI by opening "Settings" and then "Device Information," "About Phone," or "Smartphone Information."
- Open "Settings"
- Open the item related to device information
- Check SIM/device identification information
- Check IMEI or IMEI2
If you cannot find it, please check the official support information of the smartphone manufacturer you are using.
Can you determine if a device supports eSIM just by having the IMEI?
No. Just having the IMEI displayed does not determine that the smartphone supports eSIM.
Devices that only use physical SIMs also have IMEI. If you want to use eSIM, you need to check the manufacturer's specifications and eSIM settings to confirm whether the device supports eSIM.
Additionally, even with the same model name, the eSIM compatibility may vary depending on the country or region where it was sold. Make sure to check before purchasing an eSIM for travel to Japan.
Is it okay to share your IMEI with others?
IMEI is important information for identifying the device. Avoid sharing it in places like social media or forums where many people can see it.
If you are asked to provide your IMEI by support, make sure the contact is legitimate and only provide the necessary information.
Check more than just IMEI before purchasing eSIM
When purchasing an eSIM for travel to Japan, make sure to check not only the IMEI but also whether your smartphone supports eSIM in advance.
- Is the device an eSIM compatible model?
- Does the model sold in the country/region you purchased support eSIM?
- Are there any usage restrictions such as SIM locks?
- Is it compatible with the network you will use at your travel destination?
By confirming the device's compatibility before your trip, you can reduce the chances of setup issues after purchasing the eSIM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is IMEI?
IMEI stands for "International Mobile Equipment Identity" and is a number used to identify mobile devices such as smartphones.
It is not a number exclusive to eSIM; physical SIM smartphones also have IMEI.
Is IMEI necessary to use eSIM?
Typically, users are not required to enter the IMEI when installing eSIM. Services that use QR codes or activation information for setup are common.
However, you may be asked to provide the IMEI for device compatibility checks or support during issues. Please check the guidance of the eSIM service you are using for the necessary information.
What is the difference between IMEI and IMEI2?
On dual SIM compatible devices, both IMEI and IMEI2 may be displayed to support multiple mobile lines.
Which one corresponds to the eSIM may vary depending on the device's configuration, so if a specific IMEI is requested, follow the guidance of your communication provider or eSIM provider.
Are IMEI and EID the same?
No. IMEI and EID are different identification information.
IMEI is used to identify mobile devices, while EID is used to identify the eUICC managing the eSIM. When checking eSIM settings, be careful not to confuse the two.
What is the difference between IMEI and ICCID?
IMEI is a number that identifies the device, while ICCID is a number used to identify SIMs.
In the case of eSIM, you may also be able to check the ICCID related to the installed eSIM profile.
Why are there two IMEIs?
On devices that can use multiple mobile lines, such as dual SIM, two IMEIs may be displayed.
This is not unusual. IMEI and IMEI2 are provided as identification information corresponding to each line.
Where can I check the IMEI on my iPhone?
On iPhone, you can check the IMEI from "Settings" → "General" → "About." On compatible models, IMEI2 and EID may also be displayed on the same screen.
Where can I check the IMEI on my Android device?
On Android, you can check it from "Device Information," "About Phone," or "Smartphone Information" within "Settings."
The display location may differ by manufacturer or OS, such as Google Pixel, Galaxy, Xiaomi, OPPO, and AQUOS, so if you cannot find it, check the manufacturer's guidance.
Does having an IMEI mean the device supports eSIM?
No. Just having an IMEI does not determine that the device supports eSIM.
Devices that only use physical SIMs also have IMEI. Before purchasing eSIM, check the manufacturer's device specifications and eSIM compatibility information separately.
Can you confirm eSIM compatibility from IMEI?
You cannot determine eSIM compatibility for all devices just by looking at the IMEI.
Even with the same model name, specifications may differ by country or model. It is important to check the exact model information and the manufacturer's specifications.
Is it okay to post IMEI on social media?
It is not recommended. IMEI is important information for identifying the device, so avoid sharing it in places like social media or forums where many people can see it.
What should I do if I'm asked for IMEI when inquiring about eSIM?
First, confirm that the contact is the legitimate support for the eSIM service you are using.
If providing the IMEI is necessary, share only the required information using the method specified by support.
Conclusion
IMEI is a number used to identify mobile devices such as smartphones. It is not the identification number for the eSIM itself.
When using eSIM, you may encounter not only IMEI but also IMEI2, EID, and ICCID. Since each serves a different role, understanding the differences will make it easier to check during setup or troubleshooting.
- IMEI is a number that identifies mobile devices.
- IMEI is not the number for the eSIM itself.
- On dual SIM devices, IMEI2 may be displayed.
- EID is identification information related to the eUICC managing the eSIM.
- ICCID is information that identifies SIM/eSIM profiles.
- Having an IMEI alone does not determine eSIM compatibility.
- Do not publicly share your IMEI with many people.
When purchasing an eSIM for travel to Japan, do not rely solely on IMEI; check in advance whether the smartphone you are using supports eSIM and confirm the device model and specifications.
