When a mobile device is made and IMEI number is assigend by the manufacturer to the mobile to identification. This will change from one mobile to other. The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is available on all GSM and UMTS mobile phones, commonly found in Asia, Europe, Africa and increasingly in America. Cingular & T-Mobile are the major US carriers but there are growing numbers of regional carriers who are switching to GSM like Centennial Wireless, Highland Cellular, Dobson Cellular to name a few.
The main use of the IMEI number is as follows:-
(a) Mobile phone operators can use the number to identify valid subscribers and the type of equipment used.
(b) The carrier could thus use the number to remotely disable the phone in the event it is stolen or reported lost
(c) Customize data content to be compatible with the type of equipment used, among other things.
There is a simple way to find the mobile IMEI number. Follow these steps:-
(a) Switch on the Phone
(b) Return to the "idle" screen, or your "desktop".
(c) Press the following keys one by one: * # 0 6 #
(d) As you press on the last #, a number will appear with the title, IMEI number, or similar.