Fixing an iPhone 16 Screen Without Disconnecting the Battery?

This iPhone 16 came to me in rough shape. Not only was it absolutely filthy, but the screen looked like it was having a seizure, flickering, flashing, and basically begging for retirement. Naturally, that means it was time for a screen replacement.

The good news? The iPhone 16 is one of the easiest models to fix when it comes to the front display.

No Battery Disconnect Required

Here’s the part that might surprise you: I didn’t even bother disconnecting the battery. And no, I’m not being reckless. Apple’s own documentation says you don’t actually have to when replacing the screen on this model.

That makes the process faster and a whole lot less intimidating for beginners. But do take note that when you do this, the device is turned off.

The Tricky Sensor Transfer

Of course, you can’t just slap on a new screen and call it a day. You’ve got to transfer over a small but important sensor from the old display to the new one. Without it, your phone will lose features like Face ID and auto-brightness.

It’s a quick step, but also one you definitely don’t want to rush.

The Real Challenge: Adhesive

If there’s one part of this repair that deserves a “most annoying” award, it’s the adhesive. Apple uses some seriously stubborn glue around the perimeter of the display.

Peeling and scraping it off takes patience, a bit of force, and maybe a few muttered complaints under your breath. But once that’s done and the new adhesive is applied, the screen snaps into place beautifully.

Final Thoughts

And just like that, the iPhone 16 is back in action with a brand-new screen. This is easily one of the most beginner-friendly repairs Apple has ever made, as long as you don’t mind wrestling with sticky adhesive.

Honestly, with how hard that glue was to remove, I’m convinced Apple secretly hired Spider-Man to do their adhesives.

See you in the next article.