Change Android ID & IMEI: Simple Guide

Changing your Android ID and IMEI might seem like a techy thing to do, but sometimes it's necessary. Whether you're trying to protect your privacy or troubleshoot some app issues, understanding how to modify these identifiers can be super useful. Let's dive into a straightforward guide on how to get it done.

Understanding Android ID and IMEI

Before we jump into the how-to, let's quickly break down what Android ID and IMEI actually are. This will give you a solid foundation and help you understand why you might want to change them.

What is Android ID?

The Android ID, also known as the Secure Android ID, is a 64-bit hexadecimal string that is randomly generated when a user first sets up their Android device. This ID is specific to each device and user combination. It is used by developers and advertisers to track user activity across apps and services. Think of it as a digital fingerprint that helps in identifying your device for various purposes, such as personalizing ads, tracking app usage, and providing tailored content. The Android ID is stored persistently on the device and remains the same unless the device is factory reset or the user manually changes it. Although it's not as unique or sensitive as the IMEI number, it still plays a significant role in user tracking. For developers, the Android ID is a convenient way to distinguish between different installations of their apps, allowing them to provide unique features or track user behavior. However, due to privacy concerns, it is often recommended to change the Android ID periodically to prevent long-term tracking by advertisers and other entities. The Android ID can be accessed and modified using various tools and methods, but it's essential to understand the implications and potential risks involved before making any changes. By changing your Android ID, you can effectively reset your digital footprint and prevent apps from tracking your activities across different sessions. This can be particularly useful if you are concerned about your privacy and want to minimize the amount of data collected about you.

What is IMEI?

The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit serial number that uniquely identifies a mobile device. Every phone has one, and it’s like a digital fingerprint that’s specific to your device. The IMEI is used to track the device, prevent it from being used if it’s stolen, and provide customer support. It's an essential piece of information for network providers and manufacturers to identify and manage devices on their networks. When you make a call or connect to a mobile network, the IMEI is transmitted to the network, allowing the carrier to verify the device's identity and ensure that it is authorized to use the network. The IMEI is also used for warranty claims and other support services. If your phone is lost or stolen, you can report the IMEI to your mobile carrier, who can then block the device from accessing the network. This prevents unauthorized use of your phone and protects your personal information. The IMEI is typically printed on the device's SIM card tray or can be found in the phone's settings menu. You can also dial *#06# on your phone to display the IMEI. It's crucial to keep your IMEI safe and secure, as it can be used to track your device or impersonate it if it falls into the wrong hands. Changing the IMEI is illegal in many countries, as it can be used for fraudulent purposes, such as disguising stolen devices or bypassing network restrictions. Therefore, it's essential to understand the legal and ethical implications before attempting to modify your IMEI.

Why Change Android ID and IMEI?

So, why would you even want to change these identifiers? Here are a few common reasons:

Privacy: Changing your Android ID can help prevent apps and advertisers from tracking your activities across different apps. By resetting your digital fingerprint, you can limit the amount of data collected about you and protect your privacy. Similarly, changing your IMEI can prevent your device from being tracked by mobile networks or used for fraudulent purposes.
Troubleshooting: In some cases, apps might misbehave or not function correctly due to issues with your Android ID or IMEI. Changing these identifiers can sometimes resolve these issues and restore proper functionality. For example, if an app is incorrectly identifying your device, changing the Android ID can force the app to re-register and resolve the problem.
Testing: Developers often need to test their apps on different devices with different identifiers. Changing the Android ID and IMEI allows them to simulate various scenarios and ensure that their apps function correctly in different environments. This is particularly useful for testing features that rely on device-specific information.
Security: If you suspect that your device has been compromised or that your IMEI has been used for malicious purposes, changing these identifiers can help protect your device and prevent further harm. For example, if your IMEI has been cloned, changing it can prevent the cloned device from accessing your mobile network.

Methods to Change Android ID

Okay, let's get to the nitty-gritty. Here are a few methods you can use to change your Android ID. Keep in mind that some methods require root access, which means you'll need to have your device rooted.

Method 1: Using a Rooted Device

If you have a rooted Android device, changing your Android ID is relatively straightforward. Root access grants you the necessary permissions to modify system-level settings and files, including the Android ID. Here's how you can do it:

Install a Root File Manager: First, you'll need a file manager that supports root access. Popular options include ES File Explorer (with root access enabled), Solid Explorer, or Root Explorer. These apps allow you to navigate the file system and modify system files.
Locate the Settings Storage File: Navigate to the /data/data/com.android.providers.settings/databases/settings.db file using your root file manager. This file stores various system settings, including the Android ID.
Edit the Settings Database: Open the settings.db file using a SQLite editor. You can find SQLite editor apps on the Google Play Store. Look for the android_id entry in the global table. Modify the value to a new, random 16-character hexadecimal string. Make sure to back up the original file before making any changes, in case something goes wrong.
Reboot Your Device: After making the changes, reboot your Android device for the new Android ID to take effect. Once your device restarts, the new Android ID will be used by apps and services.

Method 2: Using Apps to Change Android ID

There are also apps available on the Google Play Store that can help you change your Android ID. These apps typically require root access and provide a user-friendly interface for modifying the Android ID. Here's how to use them:

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Download an Android ID Changer App: Search for "Android ID Changer" on the Google Play Store and download a reputable app. Some popular options include Android ID Changer by ZRGI and Device ID Changer. Make sure to read reviews and check the app's permissions before installing it.
Grant Root Access: Open the app and grant it root access when prompted. The app needs root access to modify the system settings and change the Android ID.
Change the Android ID: The app will display your current Android ID and provide an option to generate a new one. You can either generate a random Android ID or enter a custom one. After selecting the new Android ID, apply the changes.
Reboot Your Device: Reboot your Android device for the new Android ID to take effect. Once your device restarts, the new Android ID will be used by apps and services.

Method 3: Factory Reset

Performing a factory reset on your Android device will also change your Android ID. This method is less convenient than the previous two, as it will erase all data on your device, but it can be useful if you don't have root access or prefer a clean slate. Here's how to perform a factory reset:

Back Up Your Data: Before performing a factory reset, make sure to back up all your important data, including contacts, photos, videos, and documents. You can use Google Drive, cloud storage services, or a computer to back up your data.
Perform a Factory Reset: Go to your device's settings menu and find the "Backup & reset" option. Tap on "Factory data reset" and confirm the action. Your device will then erase all data and settings and restore it to its original factory state.
Set Up Your Device: After the factory reset is complete, set up your device as you did when you first got it. A new Android ID will be generated during the setup process.

Methods to Change IMEI

Changing your IMEI is a bit more complicated and potentially risky. It's also illegal in many countries to change your IMEI, so proceed with caution. Here are some methods that are sometimes used, but remember to do your research and understand the risks involved.

Method 1: Using IMEI Changer Apps

There are apps available that claim to change your IMEI, but their effectiveness can vary, and using them can be risky. These apps typically require root access and may not work on all devices. Here's how to use them:

Download an IMEI Changer App: Search for "IMEI Changer" on the Google Play Store and download a reputable app. However, be cautious, as many of these apps may be fake or malicious. Make sure to read reviews and check the app's permissions before installing it.
Grant Root Access: Open the app and grant it root access when prompted. The app needs root access to modify the IMEI.
Change the IMEI: The app will display your current IMEI and provide an option to enter a new one. Enter the new IMEI and apply the changes. Be sure that the imei is valid and not the IMEI of another device.
Reboot Your Device: Reboot your Android device for the new IMEI to take effect. However, keep in mind that the app may not be able to successfully change the IMEI, and using it may cause instability or other issues.

Method 2: Using Engineering Mode

Some Android devices have an engineering mode that allows you to modify various system settings, including the IMEI. However, accessing and using the engineering mode can be risky, and incorrect settings can damage your device. Here's how to access the engineering mode:

Open the Dialer: Open your phone's dialer app and enter the appropriate code to access the engineering mode. The code may vary depending on your device manufacturer and model. Some common codes include ##3646633## and ##4636##.
Navigate to IMEI Settings: In the engineering mode menu, look for the "CDS Information" or "Radio Information" option. Tap on it and then select "Phone 1" or "Phone 2," depending on which SIM card slot you want to modify.
Change the IMEI: Enter the AT command AT+EGMR=1,7,"YOUR_NEW_IMEI" to change the IMEI for SIM card slot 1, or AT+EGMR=1,10,"YOUR_NEW_IMEI" to change the IMEI for SIM card slot 2. Replace YOUR_NEW_IMEI with the new IMEI you want to use.
Reboot Your Device: Reboot your Android device for the new IMEI to take effect. However, keep in mind that changing the IMEI using the engineering mode can be risky, and incorrect settings can damage your device.

Method 3: Using QPST/QCN Tools

QPST (Qualcomm Product Support Tool) and QCN (Qualcomm Calibration Network) tools are used by manufacturers and service centers to repair and modify Qualcomm-based devices. These tools can be used to change the IMEI, but they are complex and require specialized knowledge and equipment. Here's how to use them:

Install QPST/QCN Tools: Download and install the QPST/QCN tools on your computer. These tools are typically not available to the general public and may require a license or subscription.
Connect Your Device: Connect your Android device to your computer using a USB cable. Make sure that your device is in diagnostic mode or EDL mode.
Change the IMEI: Use the QPST/QCN tools to read the device's QCN file and modify the IMEI. This process involves complex steps and requires a deep understanding of the device's firmware and hardware.
Flash the Modified QCN File: Flash the modified QCN file back to your device using the QPST/QCN tools. This will overwrite the device's original IMEI with the new one.

Important Considerations

Before you go ahead and start changing things, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

Legality: Changing your IMEI is illegal in many countries, as it can be used for fraudulent purposes. Make sure you understand the laws in your country before attempting to change your IMEI.
Root Access: Many of these methods require root access, which can void your device's warranty and potentially brick your device if not done correctly. Proceed with caution and make sure you know what you're doing.
Data Loss: Some methods, like factory resets, will erase all data on your device. Always back up your data before making any changes.
Risk of Bricking: Incorrectly modifying your Android ID or IMEI can potentially brick your device, rendering it unusable. Make sure you follow the instructions carefully and double-check everything before making any changes.

Conclusion

Changing your Android ID and IMEI can be useful for privacy, troubleshooting, or testing purposes. However, it's essential to understand the risks involved and proceed with caution. Always back up your data, understand the legal implications, and make sure you know what you're doing before making any changes. If you're not comfortable with these technical steps, it's best to seek help from a professional.