How to Change the Backplate of Your iPhone

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How to Change the Backplate of Your iPhone

Be unique by changing your iPhone's backplate to something different!

Timothy Law

7k Views

Step 1 of 8

Determine what type of screws your iPhone is fitted with. They will either be a Phillips type screw (+) or a five-star "pentalobe" screw (shown above).

Step 2 of 8

Before attempting to open your iPhone, fully switch off the device by holding the power button until "slide to power off" appears.

Step 3 of 8

Touch a metal object to discharge any electricity from your body to prevent frying your iPhone's internal electronic components.

Step 4 of 8

Carefully remove the screws using a screwdriver.

Step 5 of 8

It is recommended that a screwdriver with a magnetic tip is used to avoid dropping the screw whilst being removed. The screws are small, so be careful not to lose them.

Step 6 of 8

Once both screws are removed, carefully push the backplate in an upwards direction. There should be a 'click' once the backplate has been released from its mechanism.

Step 7 of 8

Pull the backplate directly upwards to remove the backplate. Avoid touching any of the internal components.

Step 8 of 8

Be sure to leave a space at the bottom when replacing the new backplate before pushing it down to lock it in place. Replace the screws and enjoy the new look of your iPhone!

You're Done

Follow this author & check out some other guides!

Timothy Law

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Hey! Feel free to look at my guides 😜

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Kelly Morales

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iPhone 4 or iPhone 4S

Phillips screwdriver (Type #00)

5-Point "Pentalobe" screwdriver

Replacement backplate

No. I can guarantee Apple will NOT do a backplate colour swap for you. The $30 price you quote is a back replacement of the original colour but this guide is changing the colour of your backplate. Also, you will not void your warranty as long as you change it back to the original one when you claim your warranty.

Timothy Law (author) last year

FWIW, this WILL void your warranty with Apple. If you're still under warranty, it's better to have an authorized Apple Tech do this for $30.

Scott Coates last year

I recommend sw-box.com for any iPhone replacement parts. Very unique back covers there as well as other accessories. Had a white/gold iPhone 4 when the white version was delayed.

Michael Rodriguez last year

Good stuff needed this.

Coree Thomas last year

It doesn't have a proper name it's just called iPhone lol! But mines 8gb lol

Brianna Falconer-Nash last year

Ooooh so that's why this doesn't work on 4g.... Lol i spent 10 min looking for the screws...

Kremithi Watashi last year

iPhone 8g!? Are you from the future!? ;) lol

Chris Sanchez last year

Is there any iPhone 8g ones? It is the oldest IPhone. My backplate is cracked and needs replacing :)

Brianna Falconer-Nash last year

Yes there is. iPhone 4 (GSM) uses a different backplate than the iPhone 4 (CDMA) and iPhone 4S. iPhone 4 (CDMA) uses the same backplate as iPhone 4S.

Timothy Law (author) last year

Is there a difference between 4 and 4S backplates?

Barry Ward last year

I got my screwdriver from eBay. They cost as little as $1-2.

Timothy Law (author) last year

Lol... I knew wich one was battery but wasn't sure that can pull out cuz when u call AT&T thy b saying can't replace battery but tht obvious scam to by new with them.thanks will check out you tube👍

Kelly Morales last year

Yes, absolutely. The big black long thing is the battery on the right. Just go on YouTube to see instructions of how to remove the battery.

Timothy Law (author) last year

Can u also replace battery?

Kelly Morales last year

Cool! Didn't think it would be so easy. :)

Barry Ward last year

So awesome and simple! I can't wait to find a new backplate now.

Chris Sanchez last year