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A Comprehensive Guide to iPhone LCD Replacement
Your iPhone's LCD is arguably its most vital component; it's the window to your apps, photos, messages, and the countless memories stored in your device.

But, accidents happen.

Whether it's a drop, a spill, or just wear and tear, an LCD malfunction or damage can be a massive inconvenience.

Before diving into repair solutions, let's begin by understanding the LCD types used by Apple, some common LCD issues, then explore your various repair and replacement options.

Types of LCDs Apple Uses

Apple has consistently been at the forefront of smartphone display technology. Historically, Apple has utilized:

Retina Displays
Introduced with the iPhone 4, Retina displays have a pixel density so high that the human eye can't discern individual pixels from a standard viewing distance.

Liquid Retina
Found in the iPhone XR and certain iPad models, this LCD technology allows the screen to stretch into the corners, providing a more immersive experience.

Super Retina and Super Retina XDR 
These are OLED displays, offering better contrast ratios and power efficiency.
Super Retina deliver better color accuracy, higher brightness levels, and a wide color range.
Super Retina deliver better color accuracy, higher brightness levels, and a wide color range.
Apple's iPhone is renowned for its sleek design and innovative technology, but like all devices, it isn't immune to wear, tear, and unexpected damage.

The LCD, acting as the interface between the user and the device, is particularly critical. When it malfunctions or gets damaged, it can be both frustrating and detrimental to the user experience.

Let's dive into some of the common LCD issues, their causes, and the underlying tech aspects.

1. Cracks on the Screen

Possible Causes:

  • Physical Trauma: The most obvious cause. Dropping your phone on a hard surface, even from a relatively low height, can result in cracks. The degree of damage depends on factors like the angle of impact and the surface it falls onto.

  • Pressure or Stress: Keeping your phone in a tight pocket or under heavy objects can exert pressure on the screen, leading to cracks.

  • Temperature Fluctuations: Sudden temperature changes can cause the materials in your screen to expand and contract, leading to cracks.
Only the glass panel is cracked. LED is not damaged hence replacement cost is lower. 

2. Discoloration or Discolored Pixels

Possible Causes:

  • Liquid Damage: Moisture seeping into the screen can lead to discoloration, often manifesting as blotchy spots or streaks.

  • Damaged Connectors: The connectors that link the LCD to the motherboard may, at times, become loose or damaged, causing color irregularities.

  • Degradation of Display Components: Over time, and with prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or heat, the materials within the LCD can degrade, causing discoloration.
Degrading of LED cause the color to look 'burned' (top left) 

3. Uneven Lighting or Brightness

Possible Causes:

  • Backlight Malfunction: iPhones use a backlight to illuminate their LCDs. If this backlight begins to fail, it can result in uneven brightness levels.

  • Software Glitch: Sometimes, uneven lighting can be the result of a software issue rather than a hardware fault.

  • Loose Display Connectors: Similar to the cause of discoloration, if connectors are loose, it might affect the even distribution of light across the screen.
Patches of dark shadows emitted from edge is a sign of damage LED

4. Unresponsive Touch Screen

Possible Causes:

  • Physical Damage: If the digitizer, a component situated just below the screen that detects touch, is damaged, it can result in unresponsiveness.

  • Electrical Interference: Occasionally, chargers or other devices can produce electrical interference that affects screen responsiveness.

  • Software Issues: Outdated software or rogue applications can sometimes make the touch screen less responsive or entirely unresponsive.

  • Excessive Screen Dirt or Grime: A dirty screen covered in smudges, oil, or dirt can interfere with the touch sensitivity.
LCD showing dark blob indicate the panel is damaged too
Glass cracked & LCD showing dark blob indicate the panel is damaged too
LCD damage with dark spot on the screen
Glass is chipped and bottom LED shows 'black-out' section. This indicate the LED is damaged. 

5. Stuck Pixels

Possible Causes:

  • Manufacturer Defect: Pixels can be stuck during the manufacturing process and might not be immediately evident.

  • Physical Trauma: Sometimes, dropping or jarring the phone can lead to individual pixels becoming stuck.

  • Degradation Over Time: As the screen ages, pixels can burn out or get stuck, especially if static images are displayed for extended periods.
Dead black pixel can be seen on a white background and doesn't go away. (credit: MacRumors Forum)
Dead pixel on the screen (credit: Twitter)
Options To Consider If You Need To Repair LCD

Ok. Now you have determine if it is simply glass cracked or LED damage. Before you rush to repair your iPhone LCD, below are some options which you should check and also consider other options than repair:

1. Manufacturer Warranty
Before anything else, visit Apple's coverage website to see if your iPhone is still under warranty .

But remember, Apple's standard warranty may not cover:
- Accidental damage, misuse, or abuse.
- Water damage or natural disasters (flood, fire, insect infestation).
- Regular wear and tear.
- Unauthorized repairs or third-party parts.
- Damage from non-certified accessories.

2. Telco-Issue Mobile Phone Insurance
If you obtained your iPhone via a mobile plan, you might be paying for insurance. This typically covers screen cracks and water damage, but not theft or loss. It’s a good idea to check with your service provider for details.

3. Insurer-Issued Mobile Phone Insurance
Companies like Citibank Lifestyle Guard (AXA) and DBS Mobile Protect (Chubb) offer extensive mobile phone coverage, including against theft and even international losses. This could be a worthy option if you're always on the move. SellUp also offer a Screen Protection Plan that provides a one-time replacement at zero excess.   

4. Trade-In Your Phone
Platforms like SellUp offer cash for phones, even with damages. Instead of spending money to repair, you are able to sell it for cash and upgrade to another model. 

5. DIY Repair
With Apple's self-repair initiative announced in 2022, confident consumers can order parts and repair their devices.

However, contemplate the following:
- Your electronics repair experience.
- Your available workspace.
- Potential warranty voidance.
- Compromising the phone's water resistance.
DIY kit can be purchased online easily but be aware of the complexity of replacing delicate parts
DIY kit can be purchased online easily but be aware of the complexity of replacing delicate parts
6. Authorized Apple Service Centre
Another option is to visit authorized Apple service centre. They’re trained professionals who use original parts. The downsides - costly and your data will be deleted.

7. Third-Party Repair Centres
These are typically faster and more affordable. Still, be aware of potential quality discrepancies and workmanship of these repair centre. This is the reason SellUp only allow reputable and well-trained third-party repair vendor on our platform.

Repair vendors who qualify needs to have more than 5 years experience with excellence track record on their social media reviews. 
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replaced the LCD myself?

Yes, you can buy DIY kits online to replace the LCD yourself.

However, this is not recommended because most people are inexperienced and lack repair skills.

You could do more harm to the phone if the repair process is not carried out properly. There are also myths that some household items can repair cracked screen. Read this article before attempting any.
Is it possible to replace the LCD without replacing the glass?

It is not possible to replace an iPhone LCD without glass for two reasons:

1. The parts for LCD comes in one set which includes the glass.

2. The existing glass will be unusable after the LCD and glass separation process.
Where can I get an original iPhone LCD repair in Singapore?

Here is a full guide to finding authorized Apple Service Centres and Apple Independence Repair Providers.
Are these OEM LCDs graded differently?

Yes. There are two types of grading available:

Grade A:
  • As good as the original.
  • Its touch sensitivity is 100% responsive.
  • Its background colour is white.
  • It will break less easily than Grade B parts. 
 
Grade B:
  • Less touch-sensitive.
  • Has a blue-ish background.
  • Breaks more easily after impact. 
Is there an alternative as the original LCD is too expensive?

Yes. There are OEM LCDs which have the same quality as the original but at a lower price. Since they do not have the Apple logo, they cannot claim to be original products. 
Why should I choose Grade B?

This is for people who only need to use the device for a short period of time or as a backup phone. Some customers need to restore the display to transfer data out of the phone.
Is there any warranty after repair?

Yes. All our certified repair vendors provide at least 30 days of warranty after repair.
What is the repair process and how long does it take?

Step 1. In-processing and a full test of the phone to ensure all components are working fine.

Step 2. Disassembling the iPhone.

Step 3. Separating the glass and iPhone LCD using specialized machinery.

Step 4. Applying a brand new Grade A glass onto the existing LCD.

Step 5. Heat-induced process to adhere the new glass firmly to the existing LCD, using specialized machinery.

Step 6. Assembling the iPhone

Step 7. A full test of the iPhone to ensure the phone is working perfectly.

Estimated time needed about 100 minutes.
Is the data going to be lost after the replacement?

It is always recommended that users back up their data before sending it in for repair.

There is a small percentage (usually less than 1%) that data will be wiped during replacement.
How much will it cost to replace my broken LCD screen?

The cost of replacing a broken LCD screen will vary depending on what model it is (newer models are more expensive), which grade of LCD screen you need, and where you take it for repair.

Generally, it will cost $50 to $500 to replace a broken LCD screen

Preventive Measures for LCD Damage

To prolong the life of your LCD and avoid any potential damage:

  1. Use Screen Protectors: They absorb shocks and prevent scratches.
Screen Protector offers the simplest and effective prevention against screen damage. 
Screen Protector offers the simplest and effective prevention against screen damage. 
2. Invest in a Sturdy Case: Opt for one that offers raised edges to protect the screen when placed or dropped face-down.
 
3. Avoid Extreme Temperatures: LCDs can be sensitive to both cold and hot conditions.
 
4. Handle with Care: Always be conscious of how and where you handle your phone. Avoid placing it in back pockets or on unstable surfaces.
 
5. Steer Clear of Liquids: Even if the device is water-resistant, frequent exposure can weaken its defenses.
 
6. Regular Cleaning: Gently clean the screen with appropriate cleaners to avoid dirt buildup which can cause micro-scratches.
 
7. SellUp Screen Protection Plan: Invest as low as $6 per month for SellUp Care which offers a one-time screen replacement within one year. Find out more on Screen Protection Plan. 

Conclusion

Your iPhone is more than just a device; it's an extension of your daily life. Ensuring its optimal function is essential.

If faced with an LCD issue, weigh your options carefully. Whether it's utilizing insurance, trading it in, repairing it yourself, or seeking professional service, choose the route that aligns with your budget, needs, and peace of mind. 
 
Click here to get a quote for your phone repair now

Need help?

Let us know if you have any queries on our service. Whatsapp or call us at 9336 0575 or email us at service@sellup.com.sg
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