How to Install an iPhone Housing Plate

Replace the housing plate of your iPhone with one of your choosing with just a screwdriver.

Whether your back plate is scuffed and damaged or you’re just looking to change the appearance of your iPhone, installing a new housing plate is easy. The housing plate is a third-party part not released by Apple, the company that manufactures the iPhone. Plates are made from a variety of materials, from bamboo to plastic or brushed metal. Regardless of the material used, the replacement process remains the same. All that’s needed is a small jeweler’s screwdriver and about ten minutes of disassembly and reassembly time.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Jewelers Phillips-head screwdriver
• Replacement iPhone housing plate

1. Turn off the iPhone before removing the cover to avoid causing damage to the phone.

2. Remove the two screws from the bottom of the device using a mini Phillips-head screwdriver.

3. Slide the back panel of the iPhone gently upward about 1/4-inch, and then lift the panel from the rear of the phone.

4. Place the replacement housing plate onto the rear of the phone with the two screw posts on the plate toward the bottom of the phone housing, about 1/4-inch from the base.

5. Slide the housing plate downward to cover the cavity completely. Replace the screws into the base of the phone to hold the panel in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Some later models of the iPhone contain Torx screws at the base to hold the plate in place. Use a Torx screwdriver with small head to remove the screws instead of the jeweler’s Phillips-head screwdriver.

• Any modification to your iPhone, including the removal of the OEM housing plate to install a replacement, will void the phone's warranty.

References

• YouTube: iPhone 4 Metal Back Replacement