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 it for a cost of US$199 plus US$6.95 shipping (and sales tax).

However, more affordable third-party services also are available and if you are technically inclined and have the time to do so, replacing the display in the original iPhone yourself additionally is entirely possible.

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 (printed on its back toward the bottom of the aluminum portion). 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.

Display Replacement Video Instructions

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

However, for those with lots of 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 yourself or if you would instead prefer to hire a professional.

Site sponsor Mission Repair offers free iPhone hardware diagnosis and a professional 24-hour display replacement service by mail as well as replacement parts for those interested in self-repair. Blue Raven sells replacement displays for many iPhone models, too.

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?