Today in Tedium, a blog or newsletter that focuses on questions you didn’t know you had until they hit you like a ton of bricks. Have you ever pondered about the origin of the IMEI code? You know, that long number buried in your phone’s settings? This article delves into the International Mobile Equipment Identity number, a 15-digit code that sets your phone apart from the rest. Serial numbers have been an integral part of product identification and security measures since the late 19th century, originally used to track stolen whiskey barrels. The IMEI’s purpose is not only to identify your phone but also prevent theft and fraudulent activities. Unique serial numbers like the IMEI shape how we interact with our devices and the world around us.
https://tedium.co/2024/04/27/mobile-phone-imei-number-history/