Apple will replace your iPhone battery, but the price and timeline depend on whether your phone is under warranty and how old it is
Apple offers battery replacement at its stores and authorized service providers. If your battery health has dropped below 80 percent and your phone is still under the one-year limited warranty, the replacement is free. If your phone is out of warranty, Apple charges a flat fee that varies by model — typically between $69 and $99 for current iPhones, though older models may cost less or more depending on availability.
The process takes time. Apple Stores usually complete battery replacements within three to five business days, though some locations can do it faster if parts are in stock. Mail-in service through Apple takes longer — usually one to two weeks plus shipping time. You can check your battery health yourself in Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging to see if replacement makes sense before you contact Apple.
Key Takeaways
- Apple replaces iPhone batteries for free if your phone is under warranty and battery health is below 80 percent.
- Out-of-warranty replacements cost $69 to $99 for most current models, depending on the iPhone generation.
- Apple Stores typically complete the work in three to five business days; mail-in service takes one to two weeks plus shipping.
- You can check your own battery health in Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging before deciding whether replacement is worth the cost.
- Third-party repair shops often charge less than Apple but may void your warranty or use non-Apple parts.
How to check your battery health before contacting Apple
Your iPhone displays battery health as a percentage. Open Settings, tap Battery, then tap Battery Health & Charging. The number shown under "Battery Health" tells you how much capacity your battery retains compared to when it was new. A battery at 80 percent or below is considered degraded.
This number matters because Apple's warranty covers battery replacement only if health has dropped below 80 percent through normal use. If your battery is at 85 percent, Apple will not replace it for free even if your phone is under warranty. If it is at 79 percent and your phone is within one year of purchase, the replacement costs nothing.
Free replacement: what qualifies under Apple's warranty
Apple's one-year limited warranty covers battery replacement if two conditions are met: your phone must be within 12 months of purchase, and the battery must have degraded to below 80 percent capacity through normal use. Normal use means everyday charging and discharging, not physical damage or liquid exposure.
If your battery failed because you dropped the phone or spilled liquid on it, the damage is not covered under warranty. Apple will still replace the battery, but you will pay the out-of-warranty fee. If you have AppleCare+, the coverage extends to two years and includes accidental damage, though you may pay a service fee depending on your plan.
Out-of-warranty battery replacement costs by iPhone model
| iPhone Model | Out-of-Warranty Battery Replacement Cost |
|---|---|
| iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max | $69 to $99 |
| iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max | $69 to $99 |
| iPhone 13 and earlier | $69 to $99 |
| iPhone SE (all generations) | $69 |
Prices are set by Apple and do not vary by location within the United States, though they may differ in other countries. The exact fee depends on your specific model — larger Pro Max phones sometimes cost more than standard models. Before you pay, ask Apple to confirm the price for your exact iPhone model, because older or discontinued models occasionally have different pricing.
Where to get your battery replaced: Apple Store versus mail-in service
Apple Stores offer the fastest in-person service. You can make an appointment through the Apple Store app or website, bring your phone to the store, and usually pick it up within three to five business days. Some stores keep batteries in stock and can complete the work faster, sometimes the same day, but this is not may provide.
If you do not have an Apple Store nearby, you can mail your phone to Apple through their repair portal. You will receive a prepaid shipping label, send your phone in, and Apple will return it within one to two weeks of receiving it. This option costs the same as in-store service but takes longer overall because of shipping time.
Authorized Apple Service Providers — independent repair shops certified by Apple — also offer battery replacement at the same price and timeline as Apple Stores. You can find them through Apple's service locator on their website. They use genuine Apple parts and honor the warranty, but availability varies by location.
Third-party repair shops: lower cost, different trade-offs
Independent repair shops outside Apple's network often charge $30 to $60 for battery replacement, significantly less than Apple's fee. They typically complete the work the same day or within 24 hours. However, using a non-Apple repair shop has consequences: your phone's warranty is voided, and you lose access to Apple's support if something goes wrong with the repair.
Third-party shops may also use non-genuine batteries, which can affect performance or longevity. Some shops use quality aftermarket parts that work well; others use cheaper batteries that degrade faster. There is no way to know the quality until after the repair is done. If you choose a third-party shop, ask whether they use genuine Apple batteries or aftermarket parts, and whether they offer a warranty on their work.
If your phone is still under AppleCare+, using a third-party shop may void that coverage as well. Check your AppleCare+ terms before going outside Apple's network.
What happens to your data during battery replacement
Apple does not erase your phone during battery replacement. Your photos, messages, apps, and settings remain on the device. The technician removes the battery without touching the storage or logic board where your data lives. You will not lose anything, and you do not need to back up your phone before the appointment.
However, it is always a good idea to back up your phone before any service appointment, just in case something unexpected happens. You can back up to iCloud through Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup, or to a computer through Finder or iTunes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an iPhone battery last before it needs replacement?
Apple designs iPhone batteries to retain 80 percent capacity after 500 full charge cycles under normal conditions. A charge cycle is a full discharge and recharge. Most people reach this point after two to three years of daily use, though it varies based on how often you charge and what you use the phone for.
Will Apple replace my battery if I have a cracked screen?
Yes. Apple can replace the battery even if your screen is damaged. However, if you want both repaired, Apple may recommend fixing the screen first to avoid water damage during the battery replacement process. Ask the technician what order makes sense for your specific damage.
Can I replace the battery myself?
Apple does not sell batteries to consumers for self-installation, and opening your iPhone yourself voids the warranty. Some third-party retailers sell iPhone batteries with installation guides, but the process requires special tools and carries a high risk of damaging the phone. Most people find it safer and cheaper to use a repair service.
What if my iPhone battery is swelling or bulging?
A swollen battery is a safety hazard and should be replaced when ready. Contact Apple or an authorized service provider right away. Do not use the phone while the battery is swollen, as it can overheat or catch fire. Apple prioritizes swollen batteries and may expedite the replacement.
Does AppleCare+ cover battery replacement?
AppleCare+ covers battery replacement if the battery has degraded below 80 percent capacity, just like the standard warranty. However, AppleCare+ extends coverage to two years instead of one, and it covers accidental damage. If your battery failed due to a drop or liquid exposure, AppleCare+ covers the replacement (usually with a service fee), while the standard warranty does not.