How to Fix Invalid IMEI Number on Phone and What Does It Mean

Have you ever wondered what makes your Telephone unique from other devices of the same model? Well, the answer is a 15-digit number known as the IMEI number, which gives your device a unique identity, making it one of a kind. In this guide, we will learn more about it and how to fix an invalid IMEI number on your phone.

Understanding IMEI and Its Uses

IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity, and as the name suggests, this number is globally accepted. It can be used to track or block the phone if required, and then secure the device.
For example, if your mobile phone is stolen or lost, you can place the device on a tracking list or block it. Those living in India can visit CEIR (For Indian Consumers), enter their details and process the request.

But what if there is some problem with the IMEI number of the device? At such times, you may encounter this error.

In case of invalid IMEI, you will no longer be able to access any mobile networks or initiate any calls (excluding WiFi). Below are the reasons why the IMEI may be invalid.

Cause of Incorrect IMEI Number

Since IMEI numbers must be unique, they are set directly by the phone manufacturer and cannot be retrieved. Here are some of the most common reasons why this error may appear:

• Error installing important software update
• Device manipulation
• Installing incompatible custom ROMs
• Rooting your device
• Factory reset complicated due to partition corruption
• Buy a used or second-hand phone

If you also have the problem with an invalid IMEI number, below you will find some ways to deal with it.

How to Fix Invalid IMEI Error

The invalid IMEI error often occurs due to internal software issues, and the best way to fix this error is to have it repaired by a professional or authorized phone service center. However, if you still want to take matters into your own hands, you may end up with a broken phone that you will no longer be able to use.

Reservation: Rooting or tampering with your phone will likely void both your carrier and manufacturer warranty. If you don’t want to take the blame for any negative consequences of this, don’t read any further.

Please note that we at GadgetsToUse are not responsible for any accidents or data loss caused by using this method on your device. All ownership rights to potential risks and accidental damages will be fully owned by the user.

Method 1 – Factory reset your phone

Often, due to sudden stoppage of software updates or using incompatible or unfinished custom ROMs installed on the device, the phone may show invalid IMEI error. In such cases, you should backup all your phone data and do a factory reset.

Note: Make sure your phone’s battery is charged to at least 60%, as turning off your phone in the meantime can lead to additional software issues and bugs.

1. To perform a full factory reset of your smartphone, open your phone’s settings and go to “Additional settings.

2. Then click “Reset your phone‘ in Backup and Reset settings and select ‘Delete all data‘.

3. Then click Erase Data and wait for your phone to reset.

Method 2 – Using the MTK Engineering Mode App

You can fix the error using the MKT Engineering application by accessing Radio Information. However, this application does not work on newer device models. However, you can change the IMEI number and reset it to the original number. To do this, simply follow the steps below.

1. Dial ##3646633## on your telephone keypad.

2. Go to “MTK Settings” or “Engineer Mode (MTK)”

3. Select “Connectivity” and click “CDS Information.”

4. Select “Radio Information”. To enter the IMEI number for SIM 1, click Select “Phone 1”.

5. At the “AT+” command prompt enter:
AT+EGMR=1,7,”YOUR_IMEI_NUMBER”, then replace YOUR_IMEI_NUMBER with your actual 15-digit IMEI number.

6. Click “Send AT Command”

7. Repeat the same steps for SIM card 2 and select “Phone 2” instead of 1.

8. To check the correctness of IMEI numbers, dial *#06#

Note: You must use the original IMEI printed on the device or box. This method works for MediaTek (MTK) devices, not devices with other chipsets. If you are unsure, GO TO a professional repair shop.

Summary

Tampering with the device can result in complete data loss or stop it from working, so it is recommended to have it repaired by a professional. This guide will show you how to fix the device invalid IMEI error. For more useful tips and guides, follow GadgetsToUse.

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