How to repair cracked iPhone back glass

⏱ Time involved: 60–90 minutes, if you know what you’re doing

⚠️ Risk level: High—back glass repair involves heat, precision, and risk of internal damage

💡 Pro insight: We’ve seen more cracked iPhones made worse by cheap DIY kits than by the original drop—the adhesive on these phones isn’t forgiving.

⚙️ Play it safe—visit your nearest uBreakiFix® by Asurion for expert back glass repair

It's happened to nearly all of us—you drop your iPhone® on the ground and pick it up to discover a spider web of shattered glass across the back.

You may still be able to swipe and tap on the screen and connect to Wi-Fi, but water can still seep inside, and if your iPhone has wireless charging, it likely won't work anymore. Plus, if your device is riddled with shards, do you really want to hold it or put it against your cheek? The potential for cuts is real.

Don't worry, though. At Asurion, we help millions of people with all of their tech care needs, from protection to repairs from trusted experts. Here's everything you need to know about iPhone back glass repairs.

Can cracked iPhone back glass be fixed?

The answer depends on your model. Let's break it down.

• Starting with the iPhone 15 series, Apple expanded the removable back glass design to the entire lineup, including the Pro and Pro Max, allowing it to be repaired at a reasonable cost.
• The iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus come with removable back glass, making them easier and less expensive to repair than other models, including the pricier iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, on which the back glass is glued in.
• On the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13, iPhone back glass replacement requires a trained expert to open the device, take apart some of its components, and attach a new part.
• And for the iPhone 8, X, XR, and 11 series, since the glass back is fastened to various internal components, replacing it is complicated and typically requires an expert as well.

How to repair the cracked back of your iPhone

When the back of your iPhone is cracked, you have a few options.

Put a case on your iPhone

Your first instinct—especially if your phone is still working—may be to cover up the damage with a case. Sure, this will prevent the cracks from spreading, but water can still get inside because the cracks are still there. Besides, if you didn't use a case in the first place, you probably won't like the look and feel of your iPhone with one on.

Buy a new iPhone

If your phone is more than 3 years old, you may want to consider buying a new one, especially if you've been considering an upgrade. To learn more, read our guide to when you should repair vs. replace your phone.

DIY iPhone back glass replacement

Attempting to fix the back glass yourself is a complicated task that's better left to the pros. DIY repairs also run the risk of inadvertently creating new problems. So if you're reading this article, it's a safe bet this isn't the best route for you.

Professional iPhone back glass repair

The best way to troubleshoot the cracked back of your iPhone—especially if your device is out of warranty? Asurion recommends you bring it to a repair shop, like your nearest uBreakiFix by Asurion.

How much does it cost for an iPhone back glass replacement?

At participating uBreakiFix by Asurion stores, iPhone back glass repair costs range from $110 and $230, depending on your iPhone model.