iPhone Back Glass Replacement in 2025: Real Costs, Repair Times, and What’s Covered

iPhone with flawless back glass placed on a wooden table after repair

Apple’s switch to all-glass backs on newer iPhones makes devices look sleek, but it also makes them fragile.

Even with tempered glass and MagSafe integration, a single drop can spiderweb the back panel.

Bear in mind, unlike a cracked screen, back glass damage doesn’t stop the phone from working, but it makes your iPhone less safe to hold and hurts resale value.

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OEM vs Aftermarket Back Glass

When it comes to replacement parts, you’ll usually hear about two options:

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)

  • Genuine Apple glass, often pulled from donor iPhones.
  • Matches factory specs; may show as “Genuine” or “Used Genuine” in repair history.
  • Best choice if you want to keep maximum value when you resell.

Aftermarket Back Glass

  • High-quality third-party glass that looks and feels like the original.
  • Often tougher; may appear as “Unknown Part” in iPhone settings.
  • More affordable if you plan to keep the device long-term.

Both options restore the look of your iPhone. The right pick depends on your budget and whether you plan to trade in or sell the phone later.

Apple Official vs Local Repair Shop vs DIY

Apple Store

Repairs are high quality but often more expensive. Expect $169–$299 before tax (model dependent). Apple typically takes longer.

Local Repair Shops

A trusted shop like iMobile offers the same repair for $79–$169 with strong parts and a lifetime warranty. Most jobs are same-day. If you’re in Michigan, see our Detroit iPhone back glass repair page.

DIY Kits

The cheapest option, but back glass replacement needs a laser separator and heat tools. Without the right equipment you can damage wireless charging, cameras, and antennas, DIY often ends up costing more.

For a full comparison, check our guide on Apple vs local iPhone repairs.

Typical Repair Time

With the right equipment, a back glass replacement usually takes 2–4 hours. At busy Apple Stores, you may have to leave your device overnight. 

There is no waiting with local shops, because they often finish the same day, so you don’t have to go without your phone.

Risks of Back Glass Repair

Replacing an iPhone’s back glass isn’t as simple as popping off a cover. Done wrong, it can cause:

  • Wireless charging coil damage, which prevents MagSafe and Qi charging from working.
  • Camera haze or dust intrusion if seals aren’t replaced correctly.
  • Antenna issues that lead to poor signal and dropped calls.

This is why professional repair is  always strongly recommended.

Cracked iPhone back glass may seem cosmetic, but it affects usability, safety, and resale. 

The good news is you don’t have to live with it. 

Whether you choose OEM or aftermarket, a local shop can restore your phone quickly and affordably.

If you’re nearby, check out our Detroit iPhone back glass repair service for same-day turnaround and lifetime warranty coverage.

Check these model pages for iPhone back glass repair:

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