Cracked phone screen: repair, replace or keep using it? Back up immediately, check warranty/insurance and obtain a display-versus-frame estimate. Stop using a screen with exposed sharp glass, touch malfunction, ink-like spreading damage, battery swelling or loss of water resistance after impact. First, back up data, photograph condition and check coverage before further handling.
What this covers
- A phone with impact damage that still powers on
What it does not cover
Try in this order
0 of 9 completedEstablish the exact starting state
ReversibleBack up data, photograph condition and check coverage before further handling.
Separate the fault or decision boundary
ReversibleDetermine whether damage is only cover glass/display or also frame, cameras, biometrics, battery and touch.
Apply the narrowest correction
ReversibleUse a provider that states part type, calibration, seal policy, warranty and total cost.
Back up your data and photograph the damage
ReversibleBack up to cloud or a computer before you handle the phone more, since a cracked screen can worsen. Photograph the damage and check whether a warranty, insurance or a device-protection plan covers it.
Work out how far the damage goes
ReversibleSee whether only the cover glass is cracked or whether the display, the frame, the cameras, the fingerprint sensor or the battery also suffered. Ink spreading, lines or a swollen back suggest more than glass damage.
Choose a provider that tells you what it will fit and guarantee
ReversibleAsk about the type of part, calibration, waterproof seal, warranty and the full price. The maker or an authorized repairer is the safest choice, and an independent shop can be cheaper if it is clear about its parts and warranty.
Check your coverage before you get a quote
ReversibleSign in to My Support or the Apple Support app with your Apple Account to see coverage and recent repairs. A $29 AppleCare+ screen fee is a different decision from a full out-of-warranty price.
Ask any independent shop what it guarantees
ReversibleApple's own guarantee is 90 days or the remaining warranty term. Ask an independent provider for the same in writing, and what parts it uses.
Verify before escalating
ReversibleTest touch across the display, brightness, cameras, speakers, charging and biometric unlock before leaving.
Apple
What Apple covers, what it charges and how it guarantees the work
These are Apple's published terms for iPhone; other makers and independent shops differ.
- Standard warranty
- Apple's Limited Warranty covers manufacturing issues for one year and does not cover accidental damage or batteries that wear down from normal use, so a cracked screen is not covered by it.
- AppleCare+
- AppleCare+ covers unlimited repairs for drops and spills and battery replacement if capacity falls below 80%. The service fees are $29 for screen and back glass damage, $99 for other accidental damage and $149 for theft and loss, and a separate fee applies to each repair.
- How to have it done
- In person at a Genius Bar or an Apple Authorized Service Provider, by mail with a prepaid shipping box, or, with AppleCare, by express replacement sent before you return the device. Apple guarantees its service and replacement parts for 90 days or the remaining term of your Apple warranty, whichever is longer.
- Estimates
- Fees for out-of-warranty service vary by model and are shown after you choose the device on Apple's page; authorized providers can set their own fees.
Stop boundary
When this stops being a self-service repair
- !Stop using the phone if the glass is loose, the touch acts by itself, the battery is swollen or the screen shows ink-like spread, and take it to a repairer.
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Exact questions
Common questions about “Cracked phone screen”
Can I keep using a phone with a cracked screen?+
For a short while if the glass is not loose and the touch works, and with a screen protector or clear tape over sharp edges. Water and dust can get in, so repair soon.
Does screen repair affect the water resistance?+
It can. A repair that does not restore the seal may reduce water resistance, so ask the provider.
Is it better to repair the screen or buy a new phone?+
If the phone is recent and the repair is much cheaper than a replacement, repair. For an old phone with other problems, replacing may be better.
Will a repair void my warranty?+
An unauthorized repair can affect it, so check the maker's terms before choosing a shop.
Does the standard warranty cover a cracked screen?+
No. Apple says the standard Limited Warranty does not cover accidental damage. AppleCare+ does, for a $29 fee on screen and back glass damage.
How long is the repair guaranteed?+
Apple guarantees its service and replacement parts for 90 days or the remaining term of your Apple warranty, whichever is longer.
Can I get the replacement before I send mine in?+
With AppleCare, Apple offers express replacement, where a replacement is sent before you return your device.
Should I back up before repair?+
Yes. Back up your data and turn off any find-my feature according to the repair provider's instructions.
Is insurance worth using?+
Compare the deductible with the repair price. A small deductible may make claiming worth it.