A cracked back is mostly cosmetic, but on recent iPhones the back glass is fused to the chassis with strong adhesive, and removing the shards usually means heat or a laser machine. It's the repair most likely to go wrong on a kitchen table — sharp glass, MagSafe and camera rings to preserve, and a real risk of cracking the camera lenses.
How to handle it, step by step
- Cover the crack with clear tape immediately so loose glass doesn't cut you or fall into the camera area.
- Understand the method: pros use a laser or controlled heat to release the back glass without damaging the wireless-charging coil and camera surround.
- DIY is possible with heat, picks, and patience, but the failure rate is high and the chemicals/heat carry burn risk.
- Preserve the camera ring, flash diffuser, and MagSafe magnets — these often must transfer to the new glass.
- If the phone still works perfectly and the crack is small, a slim case may be the smart, cheap call.
- For a clean result, a shop with the right machine does this in a fraction of the time and risk.
Fixing it yourself? Get the right parts
The repair-specific kits and tools that make this job go smoothly:
- Step-by-step iPhone repair guides & kitsiFixit
- iPhone back glass repair kitAmazon
- Heat pad / opening toolsAmazon
As an Amazon Associate, North Point Computers earns from qualifying purchases.
Not worth fixing? Sell it as-is
Even broken, your device is worth something toward your next one. Get an instant as-is offer.
Get an as-is offerRather not DIY?
Call for a free instant diagnosis and your repair options — what's likely wrong, the rough cost, and the fastest way to get it handled. No walk-in.
Call NowCommon questions
Is cracked back glass a problem if the phone still works?
Functionally it's often fine, but loose glass can cut you, the crack can spread, and it can interfere with wireless charging. A case buys time; a proper repair makes it whole again.
Why is back glass repair sometimes as much as a screen?
On recent models the glass is laminated to the frame, so removing it cleanly requires a laser or heavy heat and careful work around the cameras and charging coil — that's labor, not just a part.