How do I replace the battery in the original iPhone (2G)?

Apple will replace the battery in the original iPhone -- sometimes called the "iPhone 2G" (referring to its cellular networking capability rather than its generation) -- for a cost of US$79 plus US$6.95 shipping (and applicable sales tax). Apple notes that this service takes three to five business days.

Thankfully, more affordable -- and faster -- third-party iPhone battery replacement services abound and self-replacement also is entirely possible for those with significant technical skills. As an added bonus of replacement, "longer runtime than stock" high-capacity batteries also are available for sale from those offering replacement services as well as parts for self-installation.

Identification Help

If you are not sure whether you have an original iPhone or a later model, the original iPhone can be externally identified by its aluminum metal back (and black plastic portion of the device toward the bottom).

Photo Credit: Apple, Inc. (Left - Original iPhone, Middle & Right - iPhone 3G)

The original iPhone also can be identified by its unique Model Number of A1203 (listed on the back of the device toward the bottom of the aluminum section).

Everyi.com's Ultimate iLookup feature additionally can identify the original iPhone by Order Number (referred to as "Model" in the iOS) and its Serial Number, as well.

Battery Replacement Video Instructions

Note that the battery in the original iPhone is both glued and soldered to the logicboard and is challenging to replace. Consequently, professional installation is strongly recommended.

Based on hands-on experience, this definitely is a repair that one only should consider if he or she has not only repaired small electronic devices before, but also has soldered before, as well. It takes practice with a soldering iron to properly connect wires to a board with solder.

Nevertheless, for very tech savvy individuals, site sponsor Other World Computing provides a step-by-step video to replace the battery in the original iPhone:

From watching the video, you should be able to determine whether or not you feel comfortable replacing the battery yourself or if you would instead prefer to hire a professional.

Professional Third-Party Battery Replacement Options

Be sure to purchase your repair service from a trusted company with extensive experience repairing iPhone devices. Likewise, if you decide to replace the battery yourself, be sure to purchase a quality battery not only to prolong the life of the device but also for safety as low quality batteries may leak or even cause a fire.

Site sponsor OWC offers professional iPhone battery replacement services as well as quality batteries for the do-it-yourself route.

Also see:

• How do I replace the battery in the iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS?
• How do I replace the battery in the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S?
• How do I replace the battery in the iPhone 5?