An Introduction to Cell Phones & IMEI Numbers In these fast-paced times, the cell phone has become the "central station" for most of our electronic, digital or online functions.
Even "standard" or "basic" mobile phones, without the seemingly limitless capabilities of the smart phone, provide useful tools and resources to manage life's increasing digital demands.
With such a pivotal role in managing life's complexities, it would be disastrous if one were to lose his or her phone or worse, have it stolen! However, a single piece of information, the IMEI number, can protect the owner in such an event and provide invaluable peace of mind.
This vital aspect of cell phones, which many users are still unaware, is the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI), or serial number.
The IMEI is a number a piece of information of vital importance that can protect the cell phone owner in cases of lost or stolen phones.
What Exactly is an IMEI Number?! One vital aspect of cell phones, of which many users are still unaware, is the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI), or serial number.
The IMEI is number on all GSM and UMTS mobile phones, which are the most common standards in Europe, Asia and other countries.
It is becoming more commonplace in the U.
S.
with large carriers like T-Mobile and AT&T moving to these standards.
What About U.
S.
Cell Phones? The United States utilizes various standards for mobile phones.
Some of the technical standards are proprietary depending on the service, carrier or region of the U.
S.
The GSM and UMTS standards, however, have become increasingly available in the U.
S.
with such major service providers like T-Mobile and Cingular adopting this standard.
Regional carriers such as Centennial Wireless and others are also switching over in growing numbers.
The added convenience of GSM and UMTS standards, such as transferable data (SIM) cards across countries and phone models, make them the preferred choice around the world, and increasingly within the U.
S.
as well.
Uniform international standards for mobile phones make it extremely convenient and versatile for an increasingly global and mobile world.
What Else Can an IMEI Number Do? The use and advantages of the IMEI number for mobile phone owners will continue to grow as this standard becomes more and more the norm.
The following article to this piece will go over how the IMEI number adds to your cell phone security and how to use the IMEI information to protect yourself if your phone is ever stolen, lost or damaged.
The additional benefits of the IMEI number make it well worth knowing yours!