Changing or repairing the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) on Quectel modules like the EG25-G or EC25 is a specialized task typically reserved for authorized repair or development scenarios. While technically possible via specific AT commands, the process is heavily restricted by firmware and local laws. Technical Overview of the Quectel IMEI Process
For many Quectel modules, the IMEI is stored in a protected non-volatile memory area. Standard documentation Quectel AT Commands Manual often only lists commands for viewing the IMEI. 1. Checking the Current IMEI
To identify your module's current IMEI, you can use the standard AT+CGSN or AT+GSN commands. Command: AT+CGSN Response: 860195057712345 2. The Repair Command (AT+EGMR)
The command most frequently cited for IMEI modification is AT+EGMR. This command is often undocumented in official public manuals and may require specific firmware versions to function. IMEI modification on EG25G - Quectel Forums
Changing the IMEI on Quectel modules is a complex process often used for legitimate hardware repair, development testing, or ensuring compatibility with specific carrier regulations
. However, Quectel does not officially support or document these commands for the public. Quectel Forums Essential Pre-requisites
Before attempting any changes, you must establish a stable communication link with the modem: Terminal Access : Use a terminal emulator like Stop Conflicts : If you are on Linux, you must stop ModemManager sudo systemctl stop ModemManager ) to prevent it from locking the serial port. Identify the Port : Connect via the AT command port (typically on Linux). Verification Commands Always verify your current status before making changes: Check IMEI Check Firmware to see the module model and current firmware revision. Quectel Forums Methods for Modifying IMEI Depending on your specific module (e.g.,
) and firmware version, one of the following undocumented commands may work. 1. Standard AT Command Method quectel change imei
Some older or specific firmware versions allow direct modification via the command line: Enter Command AT+EGMR=1,7,"YOUR_NEW_15_DIGIT_IMEI" : Restart the module or run to confirm the change. Troubleshooting : If you receive a , the command is likely blocked by your current firmware. Quectel Forums 2. Fastboot Method (Advanced) For modules like the
that have been corrupted or are running custom firmware, a recovery-based approach may be required: fb4s_howto/quectel/readme.md at master - GitHub
ttyUSB0 option. GSM modem (1-port) converter now attached to ttyUSB2 option 3-1:1.3: converter now attached to ttyUSB3 Change IMEI Number on Android Devices | PDF - Scribd
The ability to modify an International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) on Quectel modules like the EG25-G, EC25, or EP06 is a common point of discussion for developers and advanced users. While technically possible via specific AT commands, it is a sensitive procedure with significant legal and operational implications. Technical Implementation: The AT+EGMR Command
The primary method for IMEI modification on many Quectel modules is the AT+EGMR command. This command allows you to read or write specific device identification strings.
Read Current IMEI: To verify your current identifier, use the read parameter:AT+EGMR=0,7
Write New IMEI: To update the identifier, the write parameter follows this syntax (replace the placeholder with a 15-digit number):AT+EGMR=1,7,"123456789012345" Introduction Quectel is one of the world’s leading
Verification: After sending the write command, you can confirm the change by dialing *#06# on a connected handset or by re-running the read command. Critical Risks and Legal Considerations
Before proceeding, it is vital to understand the risks involved in "repairing" or changing an IMEI: IMEI modification on EG25G - Quectel Forums
The Architecture of Identity: A Look into Quectel IMEI Modification
The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) serves as the digital fingerprint for cellular hardware, a unique 15-digit code that identifies a device on a mobile network. For users of Quectel modules—popular in everything from industrial IoT sensors to custom consumer hardware like the PinePhone—the ability to modify this identity is a subject of significant technical curiosity and legal tension. While often discussed in the context of "repairing" lost identifiers after firmware corruption, IMEI modification touches on the core of network security and regulatory compliance. Quectel Forums The Technical Mechanism: AT Commands
Technically, Quectel modules often interact with users through a series of "AT" (Attention) commands. For many of their LTE and 5G modules, such as the , the specific command used to read or write the IMEI is telecomHall IMEI modification on EG25G - Quectel Forums
The ability to change the IMEI of a Quectel module is an artifact of the design flexibility required for manufacturing and repair. However, the widespread misuse of this capability has led to strict legal prohibitions across the globe. While technical enthusiasts and attackers continue to share methods involving AT+EGMR or QPST, any unauthorized IMEI change exposes the actor to criminal liability and network exclusion.
For legitimate developers, the safest path is to never alter IMEIs outside of an authorized test environment with written permission from network authorities. Manufacturers like Quectel are increasingly releasing locked firmware variants that disable IMEI writing entirely. As IoT security matures, the era of casually changeable identifiers is ending. and the risks involved.
Quectel is one of the world’s leading suppliers of IoT (Internet of Things) modules, powering millions of devices—from vehicle trackers and smart meters to industrial routers and medical equipment. Each of these modules comes with a unique International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number, a 15-digit identifier that is critical for network operators to validate and track devices.
Searching for the term "quectel change imei" reveals a niche but persistent interest. Developers, hardware hackers, and system integrators often look for ways to modify this identifier. However, changing an IMEI is not a simple "feature"; it sits at the intersection of legal compliance, carrier policies, and technical capability.
This article provides a 360-degree view: the legal implications, the legitimate reasons for changing an IMEI (such as cloning a replaced module on an existing carrier plan), the step-by-step technical methods using AT commands, and the risks involved.
AT+QENG=1
Using Qualcomm tools:
00550 (IMEI) and 01942 (IMEI checksum).This method bypasses AT command restrictions but requires proprietary Qualcomm software.
Under the Indian Telegraph Act, IMEI tampering is punishable with up to three years in prison.
On many Qualcomm Quectel modules, changing the IMEI is one-way. You cannot restore the factory original without specialized Qualcomm firehose loaders. If you lose the original sticker, you have a brick (or an illegal device).
Modifying the IMEI on a Quectel module generally involves interacting with the baseband processor via serial interfaces (UART/USB). The complexity varies depending on the module series (e.g., BG96, EC25, M10).