How do I replace the glass cover, digitizer and display (LCD screen) on the original iPhone (2G)?

If you are positive that the glass cover, digitizer (the layer that responds to touch), or LCD on your original iPhone is broken -- it is visibly cracked, responds erratically to touch, or is "missing" a part of the display, for instance -- Apple can replace the screen and related parts for a cost of US$149 and US$6.95 shipping (plus applicable sales tax). Apple notes that this service takes three to five business days.

However, faster and more affordable third-party services also are available. If you are technically inclined and have the time to do so, it also is entirely possible to replace the display in the original iPhone yourself, too.

Identification Help

If you are not sure whether you have an original iPhone -- sometimes called the "iPhone 2G" (which refers to its cellular networking capabilities rather than its generation) -- or a later model, the original iPhone can be externally identified by its aluminum metal back (and the black plastic lower fifth of the device).

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

The original iPhone also can be confirmed by its unique A1203 Model Number (printed on its back toward the bottom of the aluminum portion).

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

Specific Display Parts

Although the original iPhone display is effectively the same from a user standpoint as the display in the iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS -- all have a 3.5" display with 320x480 resolution at 163 ppi -- the specific display parts in the original iPhone are different.

Consequently, should you opt to replace the display yourself, be sure to purchase the exact compatible part. Be sure to also purchase the display from a company known for selling quality parts as there are aftermarket displays that are not as high-quality as the original one. These lower quality displays may not only perform poorly but also may break more easily.

Display Replacement Video Instructions

Please note that replacing the display in the original iPhone is difficult and professional installation is strongly recommended.

However, for those with significant experience making similar repairs on other small electronics, Repairs Universe provides a video demonstrating the procedure:

From watching the video, you should be able to determine whether or not you feel comfortable replacing the glass panel, digitizer and/or LCD screen yourself or if you would instead prefer to hire a professional.

Professional Third-Party Display Replacement Options

Be sure to purchase your repair service or parts from a trusted company with extensive experience repairing iPhone devices.

Also see:

• How do I replace the glass cover, digitizer and display (LCD screen) on the iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS?
• How do I replace the glass cover, digitizer and display (LCD screen) on the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S?
• How do I replace the glass cover, digitizer and display (LCD screen) on the iPhone 5?
• How do I replace the glass cover, digitizer and display (LCD screen) on the iPhone 5c and iPhone 5s?