If your iPhone 12 screen is cracked, unresponsive to touch, or doesn’t display an image after powering on, use this guide to restore your iPhone’s functionality by replacing the screen (i.e., the display assembly).
The earpiece speaker and sensor components, located on the back of the display assembly, are paired with your iPhone at the factory. Therefore, when replacing the display assembly, you must transfer these components from the old display assembly to the new one.
If this component is damaged or replaced, Face ID will not work. Therefore, handle this process with extreme care to avoid damaging these components. If the component is damaged, only Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider can restore Face ID functionality.
Note: In iOS 17.6 and earlier, True Tone display will be disabled after replacing the display assembly, even if a genuine Apple display assembly is used. In iOS 18 and later, you can use Apple’s Repair Assistant to calibrate the new display assembly to restore True Tone display functionality for genuine Apple-purchased display assemblies.
Step 1ļ¼Pentalobe Screws
Before beginning, discharge your iPhone’s battery below 25%. A charged lithium-ion battery can catch fire and/or explode if accidentally punctured.
Power off your iPhone before beginning disassembly.
Remove the two 6.7 mm long pentagram screws on the bottom edge of the iPhone.
Opening the iPhone will compromise its waterproof seals. Have replacement seals available before completing this step, or take precautions to avoid liquid exposure if you reassemble your iPhone without replacing the seals.
Step 2: Heat the bottom edge of the iPhone
Use a hairdryer or heat gun to heat the bottom edge of your iPhone for 90 seconds, or until the back glass is slightly warm to the touch.
Never use a hairdryer to heat one spot for an extended period.
Step 3: Use a suction cup
If you are using a single suction cup, apply it to the bottom edge of the phone, avoiding the very edge of the glass.
Step 4: Gently lift the screen
Apply firm, constant pressure upwards to the suction cup, creating a tiny gap between the screen and the back cover.
Insert the pry tool into the gap below the screen’s plastic bezel.
The waterproof adhesive holding the monitor in place is very strong; creating this initial gap requires considerable force. If you have difficulty opening the gap, apply more heat and then gently shake the screen up and down to weaken the adhesive until a sufficient gap is created to insert the pry tool.
Step 5: Heat the right edge
Heat the right edge of your iPhone (the side with the power button) with a hairdryer or heat gun for 90 seconds, or until the screen is slightly warm and untouchable.
Step 6: Separate the adhesive on the right.
Insert the pry tool into the bottom right corner of the iPhone to loosen the adhesive.
Slide the pry tool along the right edge to the top right corner.
Do not insert the pry tool more than 3 mm into the iPhone, as this may damage internal components.
Leave the pry tool in the top right corner before proceeding to the next step.
Step 7: Separate the adhesive on the left side.
Insert the second open plastic triangle into the bottom left corner of the iPhone.
Twist both open plastic triangles simultaneously until the left one comes loose.
Apply torque gradually.
If you have difficulty separating the adhesive, reheat the left edge.
Step 8: Unscrew the battery and the display screen
Remove the two 1.1mm Y000 screws to secure the battery and display interface cover.
Throughout the repair process, pay close attention to each screw and ensure it is accurately returned to its original position to avoid damaging your iPhone.
This reassembly process is a good way to open the iPhone and test all functions before resealing the display. Before continuing the repair, ensure the iPhone is completely powered off.
Step 9: Remove the battery connector
Remove the lid.
Step 10: Disconnect the battery
Use a pry bar or clean fingernail to pry the battery connector upwards from the slot on the motherboard.
Try not to damage the black silicone seals around this circuit board and other circuit board connections. These seals provide extra protection against water and dust.
Bend the connector slightly away from the motherboard to prevent it from accidentally contacting the socket and powering the phone during repairs.
Step 11: Disconnect the display cable
Disconnect the display cable connector using a pry bar or your fingernail.
To reconnect such a crimp connector, carefully align and press down on one side until it clicks into place, then repeat on the other side. Do not press down on the middle. If the connector is misaligned, the pins will bend, causing permanent damage.
Step 12: Remove the display assembly
Remove the display unit.
If you need to replace the waterproof adhesive around the edges of the display during reassembly, please pause here.
