What to Do When Your Apple Phone Screen Cracks

A cracked iPhone screen is one of the most common Apple phone problems, and it can happen when you least expect it. Whether you've dropped your iPhone on the pavement, knocked it off a table or watched it slip from your hand, even a small crack can quickly become worse if it's left untreated.

While it may be tempting to continue using your device, a damaged screen can affect touchscreen performance, reduce display clarity and leave your iPhone more vulnerable to dust, moisture and further damage. In many cases, a professional iPhone screen repair can restore your device quickly and cost-effectively, helping you avoid the expense of buying a replacement phone.

In this guide, we'll explain what to do after your Apple iPhone screen cracks, how to protect your device from further damage, when to arrange a repair and how to reduce the chances of damaging your screen again.

Assess the Damage

Before deciding what to do next, inspect your iPhone carefully to determine how serious the damage is. Not every cracked screen requires immediate replacement, but understanding the severity of the damage will help you choose the most appropriate solution.

Check for signs such as:

• Hairline cracks across the display
• Deep or spreading cracks
• Loose or missing pieces of glass
• Black spots, coloured lines or screen flickering
• Areas of the touchscreen that no longer respond
• Glass lifting away from the frame

If your iPhone is still functioning normally, you may be able to continue using it temporarily while arranging a repair. However, if the touchscreen becomes unresponsive, the display flickers or the screen is badly shattered, it's best to stop using the device and arrange a professional repair as soon as possible.

Protect Yourself and Your iPhone

A cracked screen isn't just a cosmetic issue. Broken glass can create sharp edges that may cut your fingers, while gaps in the display allow dust, dirt and moisture to enter the phone, potentially causing further internal damage.

Until your iPhone can be repaired:

• Avoid picking at loose pieces of glass.
• Apply a temporary screen protector or clear tape to help keep broken glass in place.
• Keep your iPhone inside a protective case.
• Avoid exposing your phone to water or excessive moisture.
• Handle your device carefully to prevent the crack from spreading.

These temporary measures won't repair the screen, but they can help protect both you and your iPhone until a permanent repair is carried out.

Back Up Your Data

Before booking an iPhone screen repair, it's always worth creating a backup of your device. Although professional screen replacements rarely affect your personal data, having a recent backup ensures your photos, contacts, messages and important documents remain safe should any unexpected issues occur.

You can back up your iPhone by:

• Using iCloud Backup
• Backing up through Finder on a Mac
• Using iTunes on a Windows PC

If your screen is still responsive, create a backup as soon as possible before the damage worsens.

Check Your Warranty or AppleCare+ Cover

Before paying for a repair, it's worth checking whether your iPhone is covered by Apple's Limited Warranty, AppleCare+, or your mobile phone insurance.

In most cases, Apple's standard warranty doesn't cover accidental damage such as a cracked screen. However, if you have AppleCare+, you may be eligible for a screen replacement at a reduced service fee, depending on the terms of your plan.

It's also worth checking whether your mobile phone insurance or home insurance includes accidental damage protection, as this could significantly reduce your repair costs.

If your iPhone isn't covered under warranty or AppleCare+, independent repair specialists often provide a faster and more cost-effective solution while still using high-quality replacement parts.

Can You Still Use an iPhone With a Cracked Screen?

If your iPhone is still working, you may be tempted to continue using it. While this is sometimes possible for minor cracks, it's rarely recommended for long periods.

Even small cracks can spread during everyday use, especially if your phone is dropped again or placed under pressure. A damaged screen may also become less responsive over time, making it difficult to type, swipe or use certain apps.

More importantly, cracks allow dust and moisture to enter the device, increasing the risk of internal damage that could affect components such as the display, battery or charging port.

Repairing the screen early is often the simplest and most cost-effective way to prevent further problems.

Professional iPhone Screen Repair

If your iPhone screen is badly cracked or no longer works properly, arranging a professional repair is usually the safest and most reliable option.

Experienced technicians can assess your device for both visible and hidden damage before carrying out a high-quality screen replacement.

Professional iPhone screen repair services typically include:

• Replacing cracked or shattered screens
• Restoring touchscreen responsiveness
• Checking for hidden internal damage
• Testing Face ID, cameras, speakers and charging functions
• Ensuring your iPhone is working correctly before it's returned

Choosing an experienced repair provider helps ensure quality replacement parts are used and your device is fully tested before collection.

Should You Attempt a DIY Screen Repair?

DIY iPhone repair kits are widely available online, but replacing an iPhone screen isn't as straightforward as it may appear.

Modern iPhones contain delicate internal components that require specialist tools and technical expertise. Opening the device incorrectly can damage connectors, affect Face ID or reduce your phone's water resistance.

Low-quality replacement screens may also result in poor display quality, inaccurate colours or reduced touchscreen performance.

Unless you have previous experience repairing smartphones, professional repair is usually the safest way to restore your iPhone without risking further damage.

How Much Does iPhone Screen Repair Cost?

The cost of repairing a cracked iPhone screen depends on several factors, including:

• Your iPhone model
• The extent of the damage
• The quality of replacement parts used
• The repair provider you choose

While official manufacturer repairs are available, many independent repair specialists offer fast, professional screen replacements at competitive prices.

When comparing repair services, consider more than just the price. Look at:

• Warranty on the repair
• Quality of replacement parts
• Customer reviews
• Repair turnaround time
• Technician experience

Choosing a reputable repair provider often offers better long-term value than simply selecting the cheapest option.

How to Prevent Future Screen Damage

Although accidents can't always be avoided, there are several simple ways to reduce the chances of cracking your iPhone screen again.

Use a Protective Case

A high-quality protective case helps absorb impact if your iPhone is dropped. Cases with raised edges provide additional protection by preventing the screen from making direct contact with hard surfaces.

Fit a Tempered Glass Screen Protector

A tempered glass screen protector adds an extra layer of defence against scratches and everyday impacts. While it won't prevent every cracked screen, it can often reduce the severity of damage during accidental drops.

Handle Your iPhone Carefully

Small changes in your daily routine can help protect your device.

Try to avoid:

• Carrying your iPhone in the same pocket as keys or coins
• Leaving it near the edge of tables or worktops
• Using your phone while walking without paying attention
• Holding multiple items alongside your phone

Being mindful of how you carry and use your iPhone can significantly reduce the likelihood of future screen damage.

Get Your Cracked iPhone Screen Repaired

If your Apple iPhone screen has cracked, don't ignore the problem. Even a small crack can spread over time, affecting touchscreen performance and increasing the risk of further internal damage.

At ImFixed, we specialise in fast, professional iPhone screen repairs using high-quality replacement parts for a wide range of Apple devices. Every repair is carried out by experienced technicians and fully tested before your device is returned, giving you confidence that your iPhone is working exactly as it should.

Whether your screen has a small crack, shattered glass or touchscreen issues, we're here to get your iPhone back to its best as quickly as possible.

Ready to Repair Your iPhone?

• Book your iPhone Screen Repair today.
• Browse our iPhone Repair Services to find your device.
• Need advice first? Contact our team and we'll help you choose the best repair option for your iPhone.