iPhone Screen Replacement — What You Need to Know Before Getting It Fixed | imei.ae
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iPhone Screen Replacement — What You Need to Know Before Getting It Fixed

May 2025· 8 min read·iPhone Repair
Technician repairing an iPhone screen at a repair bench
Photo: Unsplash
iPhone RepairScreen ReplacementPhone Repair GuideiPhone

You dropped your iPhone. The screen is cracked — maybe the display is working, maybe it is not. Before you panic or rush to the nearest repair shop, read this guide. We explain everything about iPhone screen replacement in simple language — the cost, the process, how long it takes, and how to make sure you get a quality repair that does not void your warranty.

Types of iPhone Screen Damage

Not all screen damage is the same. Understanding what type of damage you have helps you understand what the repair involves:

Cracked Glass (Display Still Working)

The outer glass layer is cracked but the display underneath still shows a clear image and responds to touch. This is the most common type of iPhone screen damage. The repair replaces the glass and display assembly.

Broken Display (Dark Screen or Lines)

The display itself is damaged — you see dark spots, coloured lines, or the screen does not turn on at all. This means the LCD or OLED panel beneath the glass is broken and needs full replacement.

Touch Not Working

The screen looks fine but does not respond to your finger touches — or only responds in certain areas. This usually means the digitiser (touch layer) is damaged and needs replacement.

Back Glass Cracked

The back glass panel of the iPhone is shattered. This is a separate repair from the front screen and is common on iPhone 8 and newer models which have a glass back.

A certified technician will inspect your iPhone and tell you exactly what needs to be replaced and why. At imei.ae, we provide a free diagnostic before any repair work begins.

DIY vs Professional Repair — Which is Better?

You can find iPhone screen replacement kits online for low prices. But should you do it yourself? Here is the honest comparison:

DIY RepairProfessional Repair
CostLower parts costHigher but includes labour
RiskHigh — easy to damage more componentsLow — done by trained technicians
WarrantyVoids Apple warrantyQuality repair does not void warranty
Face IDOften breaks Face IDPreserved with proper tools
QualityVariable — depends on skillConsistent, tested after repair
Time2–4 hours if you know what you are doing1–2 hours same day

Warning About DIY

iPhone repairs require specialist tools and knowledge. The most common DIY mistakes are breaking the Face ID sensor, damaging the display cable, or cracking a new screen during fitting. A professional repair costs more upfront but saves money in the long run.

How Much Does iPhone Screen Replacement Cost?

Cost depends on the iPhone model. Newer models with OLED screens and advanced cameras are more expensive to repair. Here are starting prices at imei.ae:

iPhone ModelStarting Price (AED)Starting Price (USD)
iPhone X / Xr / XsAED 180~$49
iPhone 11 / 11 ProAED 200~$55
iPhone 12 / 12 ProAED 230~$63
iPhone 13 / 13 ProAED 260~$71
iPhone 14 / 14 ProAED 290~$79
iPhone 15 / 15 ProAED 320~$87
iPhone 16 / 16 ProAED 350~$95

These are starting prices. The exact cost depends on the specific model and the extent of damage. Contact us on WhatsApp for an exact quote for your iPhone.

What Happens During an iPhone Screen Replacement

Here is the process step by step so you know exactly what to expect:

  1. Inspection: The technician examines your iPhone to assess the damage and confirm which parts need replacing
  2. Backup reminder: You are reminded to back up your iPhone before repair if possible
  3. Disassembly: The iPhone is carefully opened using specialist tools
  4. Screen removal: The damaged screen assembly is disconnected and removed
  5. Screen fitting: The new screen is connected and carefully seated into place
  6. Testing: Touch, display quality, Face ID, and brightness are all tested
  7. Reassembly: The iPhone is sealed back together
  8. Final check: Full function test before return to customer

Most screen replacements at our lab are completed the same day, often within 1–2 hours.

Will Screen Replacement Void My Apple Warranty?

This is one of the most common questions. The answer depends on who does the repair:

  • Apple Authorised Service Provider: Repair does not void warranty
  • Professional certified lab (like imei.ae): The repair itself does not void warranty. However, Apple may note that a non-Apple screen was used if you bring it for future service
  • DIY or untrained repair shop: High risk of voiding warranty

Our Guarantee

Every screen repair at imei.ae comes with a 30-day repair guarantee. If any issue arises related to our repair within 30 days, we fix it at no additional cost.

Convenient Pickup and Delivery Service

Do not have time to visit our repair lab in Deira, Dubai? No problem. We offer a convenient pickup and delivery service across Dubai.

  • Book online or via WhatsApp
  • We collect your iPhone from your location — AED 35
  • Repair is completed at our professional lab
  • We deliver your iPhone back to you — AED 35
  • Total pickup + delivery: AED 70 on top of repair cost

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does screen replacement take?
Most iPhone screen replacements are completed same day, usually within 1–2 hours at our lab. If parts need to be ordered, we will tell you the expected time upfront.
Will Face ID still work after screen replacement?
Yes, when done correctly by a certified technician using proper tools. We take extra care to preserve Face ID during every screen replacement.
Should I back up my iPhone before repair?
Yes, always. Even though screen replacement should not affect your data, it is good practice to back up to iCloud or iTunes before any repair.
Do you repair all iPhone models?
Yes. We repair all iPhone models from iPhone X through the latest iPhone 17 series.

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imei.ae Editorial Team Powered by Cellular Geeks — 18 years of mobile industry expertise.