Introduction: iPhone Back Glass Breaks
A broken iPhone back glass is irritating and worrisome. This not only drastically changes the appearance but could even affect how your device functions in due time.
While the glass back of an iPhone was designed to improve signal strength, it is also more fragile and dramatically easier to shatter from a drop.
If you are facing this problem, then do not worry.
In this article, we will discuss what to do if your iPhone back glass breaks. The best repair tips to make your iPhone feel brand new.
Why Do iPhone Back Glasses Break So Easily?
Apple first added back glass when the iPhone 8 started supporting wireless charging. Glass, for all its style points, is inherently more fragile than metal and hence prone to breakage or scratch. Key reasons why iPhone back glass breaks include:
- Dropping the Phone: The most common cause, falling (on concrete).
- Pressure and Bending: If you sit down on your iPhone or keep it in a back pocket, you’ll apply pressure, and the glass may crack.
- Exposed Back Glass: There is no protection by a case on the back glass so it takes all of the impacts directly.
Risks of Using an iPhone with Broken Back Glass
If your iPhone back glass breaks, it’s in many ways dangerous to continue using it. However, this can lead to:
- More Harm: Cracks can spread over time, possibly affecting internal parts.
- Cracked back glass: Decreases water resistance so more water could potentially get inside.
- Injury Risks: Cracks can split into splinters that cut the skin when grasping the phone, and sore it.
What to Do Immediately If Your iPhone Back Glass Breaks
- Check for Internal Damage: Inspect for any other damage to your screen or camera lenses.
- Handle with Care: Avoid pressing cracked areas, as they may spread.
- Use a Temporary Cover: If you have clear tape or protective skin, apply it over the broken glass to prevent further cracking.
Best Repair Tips for Broken iPhone Back Glass
1. Get AppleCare+ Protection for Affordable Repairs
While getting the iPhone back glass break fixed, it could be cheaper if you have AppleCare+. AppleCare+ provides accidental damage coverage, such as back glass repairs, for a reduced cost.
However, there is a cap on the incidents covered, and you will still have to pay the service fee.
2. Visit an Apple Store or Authorized Service Center
Apple offers a specialized laser machine for back glass removal and replacement. There is a machine Apple designed just for taking off and placing the glass back on.
An Apple Store or authorized service provider will provide the best possible repair using genuine parts.
Prices vary a little ($99 to $599), depending on the model and degree of damage. So contact Apple Support.
Benefits of Choosing Apple Repair:
- Genuine Parts: Apple’s repair service uses certified parts.
- Quality Assurance: Professional repairs lower the risk of internal damage.
- Warranty Retention: Repairs done by Apple won’t void your warranty.
3. Third-Party Repair Options for iPhone Back Glass
A third-party repair can be much cheaper if you’ve already run out of warranty or aren’t covered by AppleCare+.
Many phone repair shops provide iPhone back glass repairs at a fiercely competitive price. However, be careful here and find a good shop to avoid bad parts or work.
What to Keep In Mind About Third-Party Repairs
- Quality of Parts: While not all shops utilize high-quality parts (which you can check on reviews), many do.
- Warranty Impact: It’s important to remember that getting a third-party repair can void any remaining Apple warranty you may have.
- Time and Money: Repairs can be faster and cheaper than Apple, but quality isn’t exactly the cleanest.
4. DIY Back Glass Repair Kits: A Cost-Effective Solution
Well, perhaps a DIY repair kit for the iPhone backglasses would be an alternative solution for tech-savvy individuals. You can also buy glass replacement kits online.
DIY kits are cheaper but can be difficult to finish for someone with no prior experience.
Steps for DIY iPhone Back Glass Repair:
- Gather Tools: Ensure you have a heating pad, suction cups, and glass replacement.
- Prepare Workspace: Have a clean, flat surface and ample lighting.
- Follow Instructions Closely: Online tutorials can help, but be careful not to damage internal components.
5. Temporary Fixes to Protect Your Broken Back Glass
Here are some temporary solutions for iPhone back glass breaks:
- Collect Supplies: Have a heating pad, suction cups, and glass replacement ready to use.
- Set Workspace: A clean, flat surface, good lighting
- Avoid Moisture and Dust: Utilize online tutorials as guidance, but proceed with caution so that you do not inadvertently hurt any of the inner parts.
Cost of iPhone Back Glass Repairs in 2024
The cost of fixing the iPhone back glass can vary depending on the model, repair option, and location. Cost range for different repair methods
AppleCare+ repair: $30 to $100 depending on the model
Apple Repair: $199 to $599, out of warranty.
3rd Party Repair: $50-$200 (average varies on the shop and part quality)
DIY repair kit: $20-$50, and could potentially cause interior damage.
Comparing the Repair Cost for Different iPhone Models
| iPhone Model | AppleCare+ Repair Cost | Out-of-Warranty Cost | Third-Party Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 11 | $99 | $199 | $60-$120 |
| iPhone 12 | $99 | $229 | $80-$150 |
| iPhone 13 | $99 | $249 | $90-$180 |
| iPhone 14 | $99 | $299 | $100-$200 |
Note: These are approximate costs, which may vary by region and service provider.
Is It Worth Replacing the iPhone Back Glass?
If it is a newer model, the back glass might be worth fixing under warranty. UPGRADE: If you have an old model, or if the repair is too costly.
And weigh the cost of repairs against whatever phone you have to decide if it is worth fixing.
When to Repair vs. Replace Your iPhone
- Repair if:
- You have AppleCare+ or warranty coverage.
- Your iPhone is relatively new and in good condition.
- Replace if:
- The repair cost is too high, and your iPhone is several generations old.
- You’re experiencing multiple hardware issues.
Tips for Preventing Future iPhone Back Glass Breaks
8 Pro Tips to Keep Your iPhone Back Glass Crack-Free
- Get a reliable case: Pick yourself up a case with a bumper that is raised, and the back should be solid.
- Back Glass Screen Protector: Several companies make a protective film for the back of your phone.
- Be gentle; it hurts. No need to sit down fully on your expensive phone; no putting it in a back pocket or on wobbly shelves.
- Avoid Exposing Phone to High Temperature: Glass becomes weaker when it cracks, and temperature is crucial.
Choosing the Right Accessories for iPhone Back Glass Protection
Check for high-impact rated cases (military drop protection, e.g., MIL-STD 810G) or shock-absorption technology.
That hot glass back is always going to be prone to breakage, but there are high-quality screen protectors and back films that keep the design intact without adding much weight or size injunction.
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Conclusion: Take Action When Your iPhone Back Glass Breaks
An iPhone back glass is a small parameter that can determine if the phone looks good or not, and damage to it even though superficial at times needs attention!
Moreover, there is no alternative to having a non-existent plated diamond crown.
If you choose to go through Apple’s repair, a third-party service, or even try a DIY kit, use your better judgment based on the price range and warranty status available for your phone model.
Simply as prevention measures will ensure cracked back glass another time, protect your investment.
In short, repair or replace, handle with care, and protect your iPhone from future breaks!