deviceIDs

Device IDs are identifiers used to uniquely identify a device within a system, network, or application ecosystem. They can be derived from hardware components or generated by software, and may be persistent across sessions or reset by the user.

Common hardware-based IDs include MAC addresses, cellular IMEI numbers, and other hardware serials. Software-based IDs include universally unique identifiers (UUIDs or GUIDs), installation-specific IDs, and platform-provided identifiers that the operating system exposes to applications.

Usage of device IDs spans licensing, authentication, analytics, personalization, push notifications, anti-fraud measures, and device management in enterprise environments. They help link actions across apps or services, distinguish devices for inventory systems, and enforce software protections that rely on a stable identity for a device.

Platform examples vary by ecosystem. Android provides an Advertising ID for user-resettable advertising tracking and an Android ID (SSAID) limited to the device. iOS offers the Identifier for Advertisers (IDFA) for advertising and the Identifier for Vendors (IDFV) for apps from the same developer. Desktop platforms expose a mix of hardware IDs (such as Windows device IDs or macOS hardware UUIDs) and software installation IDs. Some identifiers are designed to be persistent, while others are resettable or scoped to an application or developer.

Privacy and policy: Access to device IDs is subject to privacy considerations and legal requirements. IDs used for advertising or cross-app tracking may require consent, and users often have options to reset or opt out. Developers should minimize collection, disclose usage, and implement data retention and security measures.