Back glass on an iPhone — why does it break so easily?
From the iPhone 8 onwards, Apple has been putting glass on the back of the phone. The reason? Wireless charging — radio waves don't pass through metal, but they do pass through glass. The problem is that this glass loves to crack. And I mean it really loves to.
According to my statistics from the shop, back glass replacement is the third most common repair after screen and battery replacement. The good news is that this repair is relatively affordable and quick.
How is the back glass replaced?
The process depends on the model. On older models (iPhone 8, X, Xs) the back glass is bonded with industrial adhesive and requires heating and careful separation. On newer models (iPhone 12 and later) Apple uses a system with screws and magnets that makes replacement easier.
In both cases, the process involves:
- Removing all internal components (battery, cameras)
- Heating and separating the old glass
- Cleaning adhesive residue off the frame
- Fitting the new glass with precise positioning
- Reassembling the phone and testing
Back glass replacement price list — all iPhone models
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| iPhone X | 6,500 RSD |
| iPhone Xr | 6,500 RSD |
| iPhone Xs | 6,500 RSD |
| iPhone Xs Max | 7,000 RSD |
| iPhone 11 | 6,500 RSD |
| iPhone 11 Pro | 6,500 RSD |
| iPhone 11 Pro Max | 7,000 RSD |
| iPhone 12 | 6,500 RSD |
| iPhone 12 Mini | 6,000 RSD |
| iPhone 12 Pro | 6,500 RSD |
| iPhone 12 Pro Max | 7,000 RSD |
| iPhone 13 | 7,000 RSD |
| iPhone 13 Mini | 6,500 RSD |
| iPhone 13 Pro | 8,000 RSD |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max | 9,500 RSD |
| iPhone 14 | 7,000 RSD |
| iPhone 14 Plus | 7,000 RSD |
| iPhone 14 Pro | 11,000 RSD |
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | 11,500 RSD |
| iPhone 15 | 8,000 RSD |
| iPhone 15 Plus | 8,500 RSD |
| iPhone 15 Pro | 10,000 RSD |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | 11,000 RSD |
| iPhone 16 | 9,000 RSD |
| iPhone 16 Plus | 10,000 RSD |
| iPhone 16 Pro | 11,000 RSD |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | 12,000 RSD |
| iPhone 16e | 11,000 RSD |
| iPhone 17 | 14,000 RSD |
| iPhone Air | 15,000 RSD |
| iPhone 17 Pro | 13,000 RSD |
| iPhone 17 Pro Max | 14,000 RSD |
Does a cracked back cover affect functionality?
Short answer: not directly, but it can indirectly. A cracked back cover on its own doesn't affect how the phone works — everything functions normally. However:
- Wireless charging can become unreliable if the cracks are directly above the charging coil
- The glass keeps cracking — small cracks spread, pieces of glass can fall out and cut your fingers
- The cameras can suffer if a crack reaches the camera opening
My advice: you don't have to replace the back cover urgently if it's only cracked, but don't wait too long. At least put a protective case on it until you can get to the shop.
How long does the replacement take?
Back glass replacement takes 2-5 hours, depending on the model. Older models (iPhone 8, X) require more time because the glass is bonded with stronger adhesive. Newer models are quicker to replace.
Frequently asked questions
Does the new glass look the same as the original?
Yes. We use glass that is identical to the original in dimensions, colour and texture. On Pro models the glass is matte (frosted), on standard models it's glossy — exactly as it comes from the factory.
Can I just put a case on instead of replacing the glass?
You can, but that's only a cosmetic fix. The cracks are still there, dust and small particles can get in, and the glass can keep cracking under the case. Replacement is a permanent solution.
Why do back cover prices differ between models of the same generation?
The price follows the purchase cost of the glass, not the model’s rank. That is why a replacement back cover for the iPhone 15 Plus currently costs 8,500 RSD, while for the iPhone 15 Pro it is 10,000 RSD — the ratio can shift as glass purchase prices change on the market.
Do you do back cover replacement while I wait?
Yes, in most cases we have the glass in stock and the replacement is done right away. For rare models the part may need to be ordered, but we let you know about that in advance.
Book your repair today
Viper Mobile Phone Repair
Bulevar Arsenija Čarnojevića 91, apartment 3, 11150 New Belgrade
Phone: 065/362-61-31
90-day warranty
Courier across Belgrade: 1,500 RSD