Apple replaces cracked and broken screens, but the cost depends on your device and whether you have AppleCare+

Yes, Apple replaces screens at its stores and authorized service providers. If your screen is cracked, shattered, or not displaying properly, you can walk into an Apple Store, make a Genius Bar appointment, or mail your device to Apple for repair. Apple will replace the entire display panel — they do not repair cracks or damage to existing screens.

The price you pay falls into two categories: with AppleCare+ coverage, or without it. If you bought AppleCare+ when you purchased your device (or within 60 days of purchase), accidental damage including screen breaks costs a flat fee per incident. Without AppleCare+, you pay the full out-of-warranty price, which varies by device model and can run $200 to $500 or more for newer iPhones and iPads.

Turnaround time at an Apple Store is usually same-day or next-day if parts are in stock. Mail-in repair takes five to seven business days plus shipping time. If your device is still under the one-year limited warranty and the screen failed on its own (not from dropping or impact), Apple replaces it at no cost.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple replaces screens at Apple Stores, authorized service providers, and through mail-in repair, with same-day or next-day service at stores when parts are available.
  • AppleCare+ customers pay a flat fee per incident (typically $29 to $99 depending on device), while customers without coverage pay the full replacement cost ($200 to $500+ for iPhones).
  • Screens that fail on their own within one year are covered under Apple's limited warranty at no cost, but accidental damage is not.
  • You need to book an appointment at an Apple Store or authorized provider before arriving; walk-ins may face long waits or be turned away.

AppleCare+ screen replacement costs

If you have AppleCare+, you pay a set amount per incident for accidental damage, which includes screen breaks. For iPhones, this is typically $29. For iPad, it ranges from $49 to $99 depending on the model. For MacBooks, the fee is usually $99. You pay this fee each time you need a repair, and AppleCare+ covers up to two incidents per year.

AppleCare+ must have been purchased within 60 days of your device purchase. If you did not buy it then, you cannot add it after a screen breaks. You can check whether you have AppleCare+ by going to Settings > General > About on your device, or by signing into your Apple ID account on apple.com and viewing your device details.

The fee covers the screen replacement itself, but not other damage to the device. If your screen is broken and the frame is also bent, Apple may charge separately for frame repair or classify it as a different service.

Out-of-warranty screen replacement prices

Without AppleCare+, screen replacement costs the full out-of-warranty price. For an iPhone 15, this is around $279 to $329 depending on the model. For an iPhone 14, expect $250 to $299. Older models cost less. iPad screen replacement ranges from $199 to $399 depending on the iPad model. MacBook screens cost $300 to $500 or more.

These prices are set by Apple and do not vary by location or Apple Store. You pay the same amount whether you go to an Apple Store in New York or a small town. Authorized service providers (like Best Buy's Geek Squad or carrier stores) may charge differently, so call ahead if you want to compare.

If your device is still under the one-year limited warranty and the screen failed without physical damage — for example, it stopped working or developed dead pixels — Apple replaces it at no cost. This is different from accidental damage. If you dropped the phone and the screen cracked, the warranty does not cover it.

How to book a screen replacement appointment

Go to apple.com/support or open the Apple Support app on your device. Select your device model, describe the screen damage, and choose "Repair" as the service type. You will see options for Apple Store appointments, mail-in repair, or authorized service providers near you.

For an Apple Store appointment, select your nearest store and pick an available time slot. Appointments typically fill up several days in advance, especially in busy areas. If no slots are available, check back the next day or choose a different store location.

If you prefer not to visit a store, you can request mail-in repair through the same process. Apple will send you a prepaid shipping label, you pack and ship your device, and Apple sends it back once the repair is complete. This takes five to seven business days for the repair itself, plus two to three days for shipping each way.

What happens during an in-store screen replacement

At your appointment, a technician will inspect the device to confirm the screen is the only damage. If the device has water damage, a cracked back panel, or other issues, the technician may recommend additional repairs or decline to proceed until those are addressed. The inspection usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

If you proceed, the technician removes the old screen and installs a new one. For iPhones and most iPads, this takes 30 minutes to an hour. You can wait in the store, or the technician can call you when it is ready. You will be asked to verify the new screen works properly before you leave — test the display, touch sensitivity, and brightness.

You will receive a receipt showing what was replaced and the warranty on the new screen. The replacement screen carries a 90-day warranty against defects. If the new screen fails within 90 days, Apple replaces it again at no cost.

Authorized service providers and third-party repair shops

You do not have to go to an Apple Store. Authorized service providers include Best Buy, carrier stores (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile), and independent Apple-certified repair shops. These providers can perform the same screen replacement as an Apple Store and honor AppleCare+ coverage.

Prices at authorized providers may differ slightly from Apple's official prices, so call ahead to compare. Some carriers offer discounts on repairs for their customers, or bundle repair costs into a device protection plan.

Third-party repair shops that are not Apple-authorized may charge less, but using them voids any remaining warranty on your device. If the repair goes wrong or the new screen fails, Apple will not cover it. For devices still under warranty or AppleCare+, stick with Apple or an authorized provider.

Mail-in repair timeline and process

When you choose mail-in repair, Apple sends you a prepaid shipping box and label. You power off your device, pack it securely, and drop it at a UPS location or schedule a pickup. Apple receives it typically within two to three business days.

Once Apple receives your device, a technician inspects it and performs the repair. This takes five to seven business days. Apple then ships it back to you with tracking. Total time from drop-off to delivery is usually 10 to 14 days, though it can be longer during busy periods or if additional damage is found.

You can track your repair status through apple.com/support or the Apple Support app. You will receive email updates when the device arrives at Apple, when the repair is complete, and when it ships back to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my screen replaced the same day?

Yes, if you have an appointment at an Apple Store and the replacement screen is in stock. Most stores stock common screens for current iPhone and iPad models. If the screen is not in stock, the technician will order it and you can return for the repair later, usually within one to three days. Call your store before booking to confirm availability.

What if my screen is cracked but still works?

Apple will still replace it. You do not have to wait for the screen to stop working entirely. If the crack is spreading or you are concerned about it, book an appointment and have it replaced. A cracked screen can eventually fail completely or allow dust and moisture inside the device.

Does AppleCare+ cover screen replacement if I dropped my phone in water?

AppleCare+ covers accidental damage including water damage, but the technician will inspect the device first. If water damage is extensive or caused other internal failures, Apple may classify it as a different type of repair or decline service. Bring the device in and let the technician assess it.

Can I replace just the glass, or does Apple replace the whole screen?

Apple replaces the entire display panel, not just the glass layer. This is more expensive than glass-only repair but ensures the display functions properly. Some third-party shops offer glass-only repair for less money, but this voids your warranty.

What if I have an older iPhone model — can Apple still replace the screen?

Apple replaces screens for iPhones going back several years, but availability depends on parts stock. For very old models (iPhone 6 or earlier), some stores may not have screens in stock and may not order them. Call your nearest Apple Store or check apple.com/support to see if your model is still serviceable.