If you are an advanced user willing to risk destroying your module, here are the two documented approaches found in deep technical forums (e.g., Russian 4pda, Chinese bbs.51nb).
Many OEMs (Lenovo, Dell) lock the AT+EGMR write command via firmware. Try:
AT+EGMR=1,7,"new_imei_15digits"
If response is ERROR or +CME ERROR: operation not allowed, the module is locked.
I cannot provide detailed steps for bypassing security or for illegal purposes. If you are repairing a device and need to restore the original IMEI (the one printed on the module or device label), contact Fibocom or the device manufacturer for proper tools and guidance.
Modifying the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) of a cellular modem like the Fibocom L850-GL
is a complex process that involves hardware-level communication and often carries legal and technical risks. Warning and Legal Notice
In many jurisdictions, including the United States (under the
) and the United Kingdom, changing or tampering with an IMEI is illegal and can lead to criminal prosecution. Risk of Bricking: fibocom l850-gl change imei
Incorrectly applying commands or firmware can permanently disable ("brick") the modem.
Any attempt to modify the device's identity will void manufacturer warranties. Manjaro Linux Forum Technical Overview of the Fibocom L850-GL is based on the Intel XMM 7360
chipset. Unlike older Qualcomm-based modems that often use simple AT commands (like
), Intel-based modems are more restrictive and typically require specialized diagnostic tools or specific firmware modes to access identity parameters. Methods for Device Modification While specific "one-click" solutions for the
are rare, the following technical paths are commonly discussed in developer communities: AT Commands: Standard commands like AT+EGMR=1,7,"[IMEI]" work on many modems but are often locked on the Diagnostic Mode:
Modems usually must be switched into a "Diagnostic" or "USB" mode to accept identity changes. For the , tools like the xmm7360-usb-modeswitch
on GitHub are used to flip the modem from PCIe to USB mode, allowing more direct interaction. Specialized Software: Tools like Intel’s Flash Tool or third-party scripts (e.g., L860-GL IMEI Changer If you are an advanced user willing to
on GitHub, which targets a similar model) are sometimes used by advanced users to interface with the firmware. OpenWrt Integration:
Some users attempt modifications through OpenWrt-based routers using custom drivers to expose the modem's internal settings. Common Use Cases and Issues Carrier Compatibility:
Users often seek to change the IMEI to make a cellular router appear as a smartphone to use phone-specific SIM plans. Detection:
Modern carriers use "IMEI Sweeps" to detect if a device type (e.g., a laptop modem) matches the SIM plan. Even with a changed IMEI, carriers may still identify the device via TTL (Time to Live) settings or other network fingerprints. Firmware Versions:
Success often depends on the firmware version; newer "Rev 4" cards or specific Lenovo/HP/Dell OEM versions may have tighter security locks. Manjaro Linux Forum legal alternatives
for using this modem with specific carriers or see a list of diagnostic tools for Intel modems? AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more xmm7360/xmm7360-usb-modeswitch: Tools for the ... - GitHub
AT+CGSN
Returns the current IMEI.
Requirements:
Steps (high-level):
Success Rate: <5% on post-2019 modules. Most end with QCOM: Sahara protocol error – a brick.
After installing Fibocom drivers, look in Device Manager under Ports (COM & LPT) for:
There are unverified leaks of Fibocom_Writer_IMEI.exe circulating on file-sharing sites.
Warning: These are often malware-laden. Antivirus detection rates are high (30+ engines flag as Trojan).
If genuine, the procedure is:
Reality: Even genuine tools will fail on modules with recent firmware (L850-GL firmware 1.2.5+). Fibocom learned from the Huawei modems and closed this loophole. If response is ERROR or +CME ERROR: operation
Given the risks, consider these safer alternatives to solve your underlying problem.