1 Answer

Number
The MIN is the phone number given to any cell phone by a telecommunications provider. The MIN is not assigned to the physical phone, but is given to a service plan or SIM card used with the physical phone.

IMEI
The IMEI is a number given to each device, usually provided on a label beneath the battery in a handset. The IMEI is a 15- or 17-digit sequence used to identify the handset. When a cell phone is lost or stolen the owner can use the IMEI to allow the network provider to block or stop the phone's being used.

Use
When a cell phone is used numbers are used to route the call through a network provider. When a call is routed, the MIN and either electronic serial number or IMEI is transmitted to a cell-phone tower to identify the handset and user of the network.

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