The identification number associated with a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) on a device running the Android operating system is a unique serial number. This number, sometimes referred to as the Integrated Circuit Card ID (ICCID), serves as a distinct identifier for the SIM card itself. It is not the mobile phone number assigned to the SIM, but rather a permanent identification code embedded during manufacture. For instance, a SIM issued by a mobile carrier will possess an ICCID that differentiates it from all other SIMs, regardless of the phone number associated with it.
Accessing this identifier is essential for various tasks, including activating new mobile services, transferring phone numbers between carriers, and verifying SIM card authenticity. Historically, this number was often physically printed on the SIM card itself. However, with the proliferation of embedded SIMs (eSIMs) and the trend towards minimalist packaging, accessing the number digitally through the device’s software has become increasingly important. Understanding how to retrieve this number ensures users can manage their mobile services effectively and troubleshoot any connectivity issues that may arise.