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Guide

What is a TAC?

The TAC (Type Allocation Code) is an 8-digit code at the beginning of every IMEI number. It identifies the manufacturer and exact model of a mobile device.

Updated March 2026 Β· ~4 min read

The TAC in the IMEI Structure

Every IMEI (15 digits) starts with an 8-digit TAC, followed by a serial number (6 digits) and a check digit:

TAC
8 digits
SNR
6 digits
CD
1 digit

Example: IMEI 353325101234567 β†’ TAC = 35332510

How Does the TAC Work?

1
Assigned by the GSMA

When a manufacturer certifies a new model, the GSMA assigns a block of TACs. Each regional or hardware variant may receive a distinct TAC.

2
Model Identification

Querying a TAC database returns the brand, commercial name, chipset, supported bands, and network capabilities of the device.

3
Field Usage

Carriers and RF engineers use the TAC to segment their device fleet, understand network capabilities (VoLTE, CA, MIMO), and prioritize optimization.

What is the TAC Used For?

Device Identification

Instantly identify the brand and model of a mobile device from its IMEI, without physical access to the device.

Network Diagnostics

Determine UE Capabilities (chipset, LTE/5G bands, CA combos) of a device for RF troubleshooting.

Fleet Management

Carriers segment their subscriber base by TAC to analyze device distribution and plan network evolution.

Counterfeit Detection

A TAC not registered in the GSMA database signals a potentially counterfeit or uncertified device.

TAC Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find a device's TAC?
The TAC is the first 8 digits of the IMEI. Dial *#06# on your phone, then take the first 8 digits. You can also use our free TAC lookup tool.
Is the TAC unique per model?
Not exactly. A single model (e.g., Galaxy S24) can have multiple TACs depending on the region, memory variant, or hardware revision. But all TACs for a given model identify the same brand and reference.
Who assigns TAC codes?
The GSMA (GSM Association) manages TAC assignment to device manufacturers through its IMEI Allocation service. Each manufacturer receives one or more TAC blocks when certifying their devices.
How many TACs exist worldwide?
The GSMA TAC database contains several hundred thousand registered TACs, covering smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, modems, IoT modules, and other mobile equipment.
Can the TAC reveal supported frequency bands?
Indirectly. The TAC identifies the exact model, which allows you to look up its specifications (LTE/5G bands, CA combos, chipset). Our TAC Lookup tool displays this information automatically.
Can the TAC be used for network diagnostics?
Yes. Telecom engineers use the TAC to identify a device's UE Capabilities: VoLTE support, CA combos, MIMO, Qualcomm chipset. This is essential for RF troubleshooting and network benchmarking.

Learn More

Free Tool
TAC / IMEI Lookup

Enter a TAC or IMEI to get brand, model, and chipset.
Guide
What is an IMEI?

Understand the full structure of the IMEI number.
Reference
Telecom Glossary

All technical terms for 2G/3G/4G/5G.
Product
HiCellTek App

Professional network diagnostics on Android.
Look Up a TAC Now

Enter the first 8 digits of an IMEI to instantly identify the model and its network specifications.

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