Android · System
Check modem and firmware version numbers
Shows the baseband (modem/radio firmware) version and other low-level firmware identifiers separate from the main Android OS version, useful for diagnosing connectivity issues.
How to open Baseband & Firmware Version Info
- Open Settings → About phone
- Tap 'Android version' or 'Status information'
- Locate 'Baseband version' in the listed details
What you should know
- Baseband version reflects the cellular modem firmware, updated separately from Android OS
- Useful when support asks for exact radio firmware during network troubleshooting
- Found alongside build number on the detailed version info page
- Updates to baseband are typically bundled within regular system updates
Why it matters
The baseband, or modem firmware, governs how the device communicates with cellular networks and is updated independently of the visible Android version number. When carriers or support teams troubleshoot call quality, signal strength, or VoLTE issues, they often specifically request the baseband version rather than the general OS version, since a modem firmware mismatch can be the actual root cause. Knowing where to find this number speeds up carrier-side troubleshooting significantly.
Best practices
- Provide the baseband version when reporting persistent call or signal issues to your carrier
- Check this value after a system update if you're troubleshooting a connectivity regression
- Keep the device updated, since baseband fixes are usually bundled with regular system updates rather than issued separately
Common problems and fixes
- Baseband version shows 'unknown'
- This can happen on Wi-Fi-only tablets or during certain recovery states; a full reboot often resolves it.
- Signal issues persist despite an updated baseband
- The issue may be network-side or SIM-related rather than firmware-related; contact your carrier for further diagnosis.
- Baseband version doesn't change after a system update
- Not every system update includes a baseband/radio firmware change, so this can be expected.
Tips and tricks
- Have the baseband version ready before starting a carrier support call about signal issues
- Cross-reference baseband version with community forums if experiencing a known connectivity bug after an update
Frequently asked questions
Can I update the baseband separately from Android?
No, on most consumer devices baseband updates are bundled within regular system updates rather than distributed independently.
Is baseband the same as SIM firmware?
No, baseband refers to the device's own cellular modem firmware, while SIM firmware is managed separately by the SIM card and carrier.
Does a different baseband version affect Wi-Fi performance?
No, baseband specifically governs cellular connectivity, not Wi-Fi.
Related settings
- Android Version Detail PageShows the exact Android OS version, security patch level, build number, kernel version, and Google Play system update version installed on the device.
- Carrier Software UpdatesCarrier software updates deliver network-specific fixes — like updated cellular radio firmware, VoLTE/Wi-Fi calling profiles, or APN settings — separately from the general Android operating-system update process.
- Device Status InformationDisplays live technical status details including SIM status, IP address, Wi-Fi MAC address, Bluetooth address, network signal strength, and device uptime since last restart.
More System guides for Android
- System UpdateSystem Update keeps Android current with the latest security patches and features. Google and your device manufacturer regularly release updates that improve performance and close security gaps.
- BatteryBattery settings show a breakdown of what's draining your charge, offer a Battery Saver mode to stretch remaining power, and let you restrict background activity for specific apps. A built-in health estimate also indicates how much capacity your battery has lost over time.
- Security Patch LevelThe security patch level shows the exact month a device's known vulnerability fixes were last updated — a separate, more frequent indicator than the overall Android version number.
- Google Play System UpdateGoogle Play system update (Project Mainline) delivers security and consistency fixes to core Android components through the Play Store itself, letting Google patch critical system modules on a monthly cadence without waiting for a full manufacturer OS update.
- Auto-update Apps SettingConfigures whether apps installed from the Play Store update automatically, and under what network conditions, so new versions install without manual action.
- App Download Network PreferenceDetermines whether the Play Store is allowed to download large app installations and updates over mobile data, Wi-Fi only, or asks each time for files above a certain size.