Cracked iPhone Back Glass: Repair Options, Cost & Is It Safe to Use?

Every iPhone since the iPhone 8 has a glass back, which makes wireless charging possible and looks great, right up until the phone lands face-up on the pavement. The cost of fixing it varies enormously by model, for a reason most people don't know about.

What Apple charges for back glass in Canada

These are Apple's estimated out-of-warranty prices for "back glass damage" on its Canadian repair page, as of September 27, 2026, before tax.

Why older iPhones cost so much more

Starting with the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus, and on every iPhone 15 and later, Apple redesigned the inside of the phone so the back glass can be removed and replaced on its own. On older designs, including the iPhone 12, iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 Pro, the glass is bonded to the frame, so Apple replaces a much bigger part of the phone. That's the difference between $219 and $799.

How independent shops fix back glass

On bonded designs, independent shops use a laser machine that breaks down the adhesive under the glass, so the shattered pieces come off without replacing the frame or the internals. The frame is cleaned, a new back glass is fitted with its camera ring, and it's bonded in place. It's a precise job, but it costs far less than replacing the whole housing. At Hotspot, back glass repairs start from $99, with our 100-day parts warranty.

Is it safe to keep using a cracked back?

• Splinters. Tiny shards can come loose and cut fingers. A case helps.
• Spreading cracks. Each small knock makes the damage worse.
• Dust and moisture. Cracks break the seal. Apple notes that water resistance "might decrease as a result of normal wear" and that liquid damage isn't covered under warranty. A cracked back makes things worse, so keep the phone away from water. If it does get wet, follow our water damage steps.

A case or a strip of clear tape keeps shards in place for now. Don't use glue.

Camera lens vs. back glass

The small glass covers over the cameras are separate from the back glass. A cracked lens cover causes blurry photos, flare or a hazy look. It's a different, usually quicker repair; camera repairs at our shop start from $69.

Apple or a local shop?

If you have AppleCare+, Apple's $39 fee is hard to beat. On an iPhone 14 or newer, Apple's $219 is reasonable too. On an iPhone 12, 13 or 14 Pro without AppleCare+, laser removal at an independent shop usually saves you hundreds. Our Apple Store vs. independent comparison covers the other trade-offs, and if the front is cracked as well, see our iPhone screen repair cost guide.