Soon after the iPhone 13 launched, DIY repair experts like iFixit found that replacing the iPhone’s display disables Face ID. However, Apple is now backtracking on this decision to limit iPhone 13 screen repairs, according to report The Verge. Although there’s a catch — it will not work unless you also moved over a tiny control chip from original screen. This makes it a complex process. It makes one of the most common types of repairs extremely difficult for independent repair shops. Meanwhile, it is easier for Apple repair authorized shops, as they have a software tool that makes it easier.
Now, iPhone 13 owners worrying over a broken display (God forbid, if you do break it) will end up worrying over the Face ID. Especially when getting the screen replacement from a third-party repair shop or technician will break your Face ID system. Although skilled technicians could transfer a tiny microcontroller from the original display to the new one. As we mentioned above, it is a complex process.
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Apple Walks Back iPhone 13 Display Repair Restriction That Disabled Face ID
As we all know, this complexity led to disabling and breaking of iPhone 13 Face ID. This whole debacle caused a severe backlash on the company. But it looks like the company has responded to the problem and is preparing to issue a solution. In response to severe backlash, the Cupertino giant has confirmed to release a software update to fix this repairability issue in the coming days.
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Previously a similar issue surfaced when iPhone XSs reportedly lost support for True Tone after a screen replacement. iPhone’s history with repairability and in the case of the iPhone 13 Face ID is not a mystery to anyone. According to repair enthusiasts, Apple serial number locks its components rendering certain features unusable after a third-party repair. It was most prevalent in case of consistent malfunctioning of the FaceID security system.
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Meanwhile, The Verge also suggests that the tiny microcontroller can be untouched when performing a screen replacement. It can happen with a software update that’s due on Apple’s end. This software update however doesn’t have a confirmed timeline of roll out yet. This update could come as another step in the right direction after Apple re-introduced usable ports onto the 2021 M1 Pro and M1 Max powered MacBook Pros.
Sushmita Choubey
Marketer to the core, a writer from the soul. Engineer and an MBA turned budding tech writer - dabbling her hands in all genres of writing from tech to fiction. If not writing, you will always find me reading anything and everything. Otherwise, you will find me learning new languages.