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).

Thankfully, more affordable 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 lower fourth of the device) and its unique model number of A1203 (listed on the back of the device toward the bottom of the aluminum section). The original iPhone models also can be differentiated by the last three characters of its serial number with EveryiPhone.com's Ultimate iLookup.

In addition to the last three characters of its serial number, EveryiPhone.com's Ultimate iLookup feature can identify the iPhone models by EMC number and order number (referred to as "Model" from within the iOS), 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.

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.

OWC and Mission Repair both offer professional iPhone battery replacement services and batteries for those interested in 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?