How to Replace an iPhone Back Glass: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Cracked back glass is one of the most common iPhone repairs — and one of the most profitable services a phone repair shop can offer. Unlike a screen replacement, the back glass doesn't affect the display, so many users ignore it. But a cracked back can shatter further, expose the battery, and even affect wireless charging.
Whether you're a DIY enthusiast fixing your own phone or a repair shop adding back glass service, this guide walks you through the entire process.
Tools You'll Need
Heat gun or hot plate (recommended temperature: 80–100°C)
Metal pry tool and plastic opening picks
Suction cup
Screwdrivers (Pentalobe P2, Phillips #000)
Isopropyl alcohol (99%)
B7000 or T-7000 adhesive
Roller or clamps for re-sealing
Step 1: Remove the Two Bottom Screws
Use a Pentalobe P2 screwdriver to remove the two screws at the bottom edge of the phone. These hold the display assembly in place. Keep them in a magnetic tray — they're easy to lose.
Step 2: Open the Display
Apply suction to the bottom edge of the display and gently pull to create a small gap. Insert a plastic opening pick and slide it along the edges to release the clips. Important: Do not pull the display more than 90 degrees — the flex cables on the right side are still connected.
Step 3: Disconnect the Battery and Flex Cables
Once the display is open, use a plastic pry tool to disconnect the battery connector first — always disconnect power before working on any component. Then disconnect the three display flex cables: front camera, LCD, and digitizer.
Step 4: Remove the Logic Board and Internal Components
To replace back glass, you need access to the inside of the phone. Remove the logic board shield plates, the logic board itself, the cameras, and the wireless charging coil. Take photos at each stage so you remember the screw positions — they vary in length and threading.
Step 5: Heat and Remove the Old Back Glass
Heat the back glass with a heat gun until it's too hot to touch comfortably (but not smoking). Insert a metal pry tool at a corner or near the camera bump and gently work it under the glass. Work slowly — patience here prevents damage to the wireless charging coil underneath.
Step 6: Clean the Frame
After removing all the old glass, use isopropyl alcohol and a plastic scraper to remove every trace of old adhesive and glass shards. The frame must be perfectly clean for the new glass to seat properly. Any leftover shard will crack the new glass under pressure.
Step 7: Install the New Back Glass
If you purchased a back glass with pre-installed adhesive (recommended), peel the backing and align the new glass starting from the camera side. Press it into place firmly, then use a roller to apply even pressure across the whole surface.
💡 Pro tip: A back glass with pre-installed 3M adhesive saves 15–20 minutes per repair and gives a much more consistent seal than hand-applied glue. This is what professional shops should stock.
Step 8: Reassemble and Test
Reinstall the wireless charging coil, cameras, logic board, and shields in reverse order. Reconnect the battery last, then close the display and tighten the two bottom screws. Power on and test: screen, Face ID, speakers, charging, and wireless charging.
Where to Buy Quality iPhone Back Glass
Not all back glass is created equal. Look for these quality markers when sourcing:
Pre-installed adhesive: saves installation time and improves sealing
OEM-matched color: the coating should match the original finish exactly
Individually QC-tested: no scratches, no color deviation
CNC-cut precision: edges align perfectly with the frame
We stock premium back glass replacements for all iPhone models — from iPhone 8 to iPhone 13 Pro Max, in every OEM color, with pre-installed adhesive and 100% QC testing. Every unit is shipped from Shenzhen via DHL Express, arriving in 3–5 business days worldwide. Wholesale pricing available for repair shops and resellers.