Parts serialisation on Apple iPhones
Unfortunately, most parts in Apple devices are serialised: individual components are paired to the logic board. This includes the screen, battery and camera on iPhone XS and newer.
This means that the device will recognise a replacement component, and register it as an "Unknown Part" in service history.
For example, if we were to purchase two brand new iPhones and swap the batteries, they would both display the Unknown Part message because the new battery data does not match the original battery data.
Apple does not provide access to their recalibration software, so we cannot remove this message.
This does not affect performance, usability or resale value. All replacement parts are tested and covered by our 12-month warranty.
In most cases, the message pops up less frequently over time.
Affected components include:
- The screen on iPhone 11, 12, 13 and 14 series.
- The battery on iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, 11, 12, 13 and 14 series, SE 2nd and 3rd gen.
- The rear camera on iPhone 12, 13 and 14 series.
Apple does not sell spare parts. Here's what we use:
For screens, we offer a choice of original refurbished displays or high-quality compatible displays. You can read more about these options here. For some models, we will use Grade A reclaimed screens.
For batteries, we use high-quality aftermarket batteries, which have an identical rating and capacity as the original battery.
We can purchase original refurbished batteries, but these are not as reliable in our experience.
For rear cameras, we usually opt for original pull components when available. These are original working camera modules that have been removed/harvested from iPhones.
All of these replacement components come with a 12-month warranty to protect against defects.
We strive to deliver an affordable and reliable repair service to our customers in spite of Apple's efforts to suppress third-party repair.
Here is a detailed breakdown by iFixit on the measures taken by Apple to make their devices more difficult to repair.