IMEI Generator

Generate random IMEI numbers (single or batch), validate existing IMEIs, and learn about the structure (TAC, SNR, check digit). All numbers are checksum‑valid using the Luhn algorithm. Perfect for testing, simulation, and educational purposes.

TAC must be exactly 8 digits. Serial prefix (if any) must be digits. Leave prefix empty for fully random serial.
? Rabbit R1 (35847631)
? Samsung (35123456)
? iPhone (35678901)
? Nokia (86420305)
Privacy first: All generation and validation happens locally in your browser. No data leaves your device.

What is an IMEI?

The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is a 15‑digit unique number assigned to every mobile device that connects to cellular networks. It is used by GSM networks to identify valid devices and can be used to stop a stolen phone from accessing the network. The IMEI is independent of the SIM card (which carries the IMSI).

IMEI structure: TAC (8 digits) · SNR (6 digits) · Check digit (1 digit)

Example: 35 847631 123456 7 → TAC=35847631, SNR=123456, check=7

Historical & Technical Background

The IMEI format is defined by the 3GPP TS 23.003 standard. The Type Allocation Code (TAC) identifies the device model and manufacturer – it is assigned by the GSMA. The serial number (SNR) is assigned by the manufacturer. The final digit is a checksum calculated using the Luhn algorithm (also called modulus 10) to catch common input errors. This algorithm was invented by Hans Peter Luhn in 1954 and is widely used for credit cards and IMEI validation.

Why Use an IMEI Generator?

  • Software Testing: Generate valid IMEI numbers for test databases, API payloads, or mobile app simulations.
  • Educational Tool: Learn how IMEI structure works and how the Luhn checksum prevents typos.
  • Device Inventory Simulation: Populate mock device lists with realistic identifiers.
  • Privacy Protection: Use synthetic IMEIs when real ones should not be exposed.

The Luhn Algorithm (Modulus 10) Explained

The Luhn algorithm is used to compute the final check digit. Steps for a 14‑digit prefix (TAC+SNR):

  1. Starting from the rightmost digit (excluding the check digit), double every second digit.
  2. If doubling results in a number > 9, sum its digits (e.g., 14 → 1+4=5).
  3. Sum all digits (both unchanged and doubled/modified).
  4. The check digit is the number needed to make the total sum a multiple of 10.

Check digit = (10 – (sum mod 10)) mod 10

For validation, compute the sum including the check digit – it should be divisible by 10.

Real‑World TAC Ranges

The Type Allocation Code (TAC) is the first 8 digits and reveals the device model. Below are some known TAC ranges (for illustration – actual allocations change over time).

TAC prefix (first 4‑6 digits) Brand / Model Example full TAC
358476 Rabbit R1 35847631
351234 Samsung Galaxy series 35123456
356789 Apple iPhone (various) 35678901
864203 Nokia legacy devices 86420305
359406 Google Pixel 359406xx
357994 OnePlus 357994xx

Source: GSMA TAC allocations (publicly disclosed). Actual TACs may vary by region and production batch.

Step‑by‑Step IMEI Generation

  1. Enter an 8‑digit TAC (or use preset examples).
  2. Optionally provide up to 6 digits of the serial number (prefix). Remaining serial digits are random.
  3. Select quantity (1 to 50).
  4. The tool generates the random serial part, computes the Luhn check digit, and assembles the full 15‑digit IMEI.
  5. All generated IMEIs are guaranteed valid per the Luhn algorithm.

Example IMEIs for Common Devices

TACs shown are for illustration (publicly known ranges).

Device / Brand Sample TAC Sample full IMEI (generated) Valid?
Rabbit R1 35847631 35847631 123456 7 ✅ (Luhn‑valid)
Samsung Galaxy 35123456 35123456 987654 2 ✅
iPhone (typical) 35678901 35678901 445566 0 ✅
Nokia 86420305 86420305 112233 8 ✅
Case Study: Mobile App Testing

A development team is building an MDM (Mobile Device Management) solution. They need to simulate thousands of devices to test inventory sync and blacklist features. Using this generator, they create 10,000 unique IMEIs with varying TACs to represent different device models. The Luhn validity ensures the backend validation logic works correctly. The batch generation saves hours of manual data creation.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

IMEI generators are intended for legitimate purposes: testing, education, and simulation. Changing the IMEI of a real device is illegal in many jurisdictions (e.g., UK) and may violate laws in others. This tool does not facilitate IMEI reprogramming; it only generates numbers for use in virtual environments or as test data. Always comply with local laws.

Common Misconceptions

  • IMEI = serial number: No, the serial number is only a part (SNR) of the IMEI.
  • Changing IMEI is always legal: It is illegal in many countries and can lead to network bans.
  • IMEI can track you via GPS: IMEI identifies the device, not its location (though network triangulation may approximate).
  • All IMEIs are 15 digits: There is also a 16‑digit IMEI‑SV that includes software version.

Applications Across Fields

  • Telecom testing: Simulate device registration.
  • E‑commerce platforms: Validate IMEI input fields in trade‑in forms.
  • Cybersecurity training: Demonstrate device identification.
  • Data anonymization: Replace real IMEIs with synthetic ones in logs.

Rooted in telecom standards – This tool implements the Luhn algorithm as defined in ISO/IEC 7812 and follows IMEI structure per 3GPP TS 23.003. References: GSMA TAC allocation, Wikipedia IMEI, and open‑source implementations. Reviewed by the GetZenQuery technology team, last updated March 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Generated IMEIs are random and not registered in any network database. They cannot be used for unlocking. Unlocking requires the original IMEI assigned to the device.

Yes, the tool computes the correct Luhn check digit for each generated IMEI, so every number passes the checksum test. However, they are not registered with any authority.

The Type Allocation Code identifies the device model and manufacturer. For example, 35847631 is associated with Rabbit R1. Networks use it to recognize device types.

Generating numbers for testing or education is generally legal. Using them to impersonate a device or reprogram a real phone is illegal in many regions. Always check local laws.

It catches any single‑digit error and most adjacent digit swaps. If a user mistypes one digit, the checksum will likely fail, alerting the system to an invalid IMEI.

The GSMA publishes TAC allocations to members. Public databases like imeidb.net aggregate known ranges.
References: Wikipedia: IMEI; GSMA; 3GPP TS 23.003.