You have two routes: replace it yourself if your model allows it, or take it to Apple or an authorized repair shop

Most iPhones require a technician to open the phone and swap the battery. Apple charges between $69 and $99 depending on your model, and the job takes one to two hours at an Apple Store or authorized repair location. Some newer iPhones — the iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max — have a removable battery that you can replace yourself with a screwdriver and a few basic tools, though Apple still charges the same amount if you want them to do it.

If your phone is still under warranty or covered by AppleCare+, the cost may be lower or free. If the battery failed because of a manufacturing defect rather than normal wear, Apple covers it at no charge. Knowing which path makes sense depends on your phone's age, your comfort with tools, and whether you want a may provide on the work.

Key Takeaways

  • iPhone 15 models have user-replaceable batteries; all older iPhones require opening by a technician.
  • Apple's battery replacement costs $69 to $99 and takes one to two hours at an Apple Store or authorized shop.
  • If your phone is under warranty or AppleCare+, battery replacement may cost less or nothing.
  • Third-party repair shops often charge $30 to $60 but may not use genuine Apple batteries.
  • A battery is considered defective if it fails within the first two years of normal use.

How to replace an iPhone 15 battery yourself

The iPhone 15 and later models ship with a removable battery held in place by two pull tabs. You will need a P2 Pentalobe screwdriver (the five-pointed star shape Apple uses), a plastic spudger or opening tool, and tweezers. A heat gun or hair dryer helps soften the adhesive around the battery, though it is not required.

Start by powering off your phone completely. Heat the bottom edge of the phone for 30 seconds to loosen the adhesive. Use the plastic spudger to gently pry up the bottom edge of the screen until you can fit your fingers underneath, then carefully lift the screen away from the body — do not fully detach it, as the display cable is still connected at the top. Locate the two pull tabs attached to the battery, pull them slowly and steadily to lift the battery out, and set it aside. Insert the new battery, press it down firmly until it sits flush, then close the screen by pressing the edges down until you hear or feel a click. Power the phone back on and check that the battery percentage shows correctly.

If the screen does not seal properly or the battery does not sit flat, the adhesive strips may not be positioned correctly. Apple sells replacement adhesive strips as part of a battery kit, or you can purchase them separately from electronics retailers. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Taking your iPhone to Apple or an authorized repair shop

Visit Apple.com, open the Support section, and select "Repair and Physical Damage" to find the nearest Apple Store or authorized service provider. You can book an appointment online or call the location directly. Bring your phone and a valid ID. Apple will run a diagnostic to confirm the battery is the problem, show you the cost, and complete the replacement while you wait or schedule a pickup time.

Authorized repair shops — Best Buy's Geek Squad, Micro Center, and independent repair chains — charge $30 to $60 for battery replacement and often have same-day availability. The trade-off is that not all of them use genuine Apple batteries, and the warranty on the work may be shorter than Apple's one-year may provide. Ask whether they use original or third-party batteries before you hand over your phone.

The appointment usually takes one to two hours. Apple backs the replacement with a one-year warranty on the battery itself, meaning if the new battery fails during that time, they will replace it again at no charge.

What to do if your battery is still under warranty

If your iPhone is less than one year old and the battery is failing, Apple covers the replacement at no cost. Bring your phone and proof of purchase (your receipt, order confirmation email, or the phone's serial number if you bought it from Apple directly). A diagnostic test takes about 10 minutes and confirms whether the battery is defective or straightforward worn from normal use.

AppleCare+ extends this coverage to two years and also covers accidental damage. If you have AppleCare+, battery replacement costs $0 to $29 depending on your plan. Check your coverage by opening Settings, tapping General, then About, and looking for the AppleCare+ status. If you are not sure, Apple can look it up using your phone number or email address.

Signs your iPhone battery needs replacement

Your battery is degrading if your phone shuts down unexpectedly when the battery percentage shows 20 percent or higher, drains from 50 percent to dead in under an hour during normal use, or takes longer than four hours to charge from empty. You can also check the battery's health directly: open Settings, tap Battery, then Battery Health & Charging. If the Maximum Capacity shows 80 percent or lower, the battery has lost significant capacity and replacement will noticeably improve performance.

A battery that has lost 20 percent of its capacity is still functional but noticeably slower to charge and shorter-lived between charges. Most people notice the difference and choose to replace it. A battery at 50 percent capacity or lower makes the phone difficult to use for a full day.

Choosing between DIY and professional replacement

Replace the battery yourself if you own an iPhone 15 model, are comfortable using small tools, and want to save $69 to $99. The process is straightforward and low-risk — the worst outcome is that the screen does not seal perfectly, which you can fix by reapplying adhesive. You will also have the battery done when ready rather than waiting for an appointment.

Take your phone to Apple or an authorized shop if you own an older iPhone, do not want to open your phone, or want a warranty on the work. Apple's one-year may provide on the battery replacement is valuable if something goes wrong. Authorized shops are faster and cheaper but offer less certainty about parts quality and warranty length.

Third-party batteries are usually genuine Apple parts or high-quality aftermarket batteries, but some shops use lower-grade replacements. Ask directly what battery the shop installs before you commit. If cost is your main concern, call three local shops and compare their prices and battery sources.

What happens to your old battery

Apple and most authorized shops recycle your old battery at no charge. They remove the lithium-ion cells, separate the materials, and send them to recycling facilities that recover cobalt, nickel, and other metals for reuse. You do not need to do anything — the shop handles it as part of the service.

If you replace the battery yourself, do not throw the old battery in the trash or recycling bin. Lithium-ion batteries can catch fire if damaged or crushed in a landfill. Take it to an Apple Store, Best Buy, or local electronics recycling center. Most accept old batteries for free.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a new iPhone battery last?

A new battery is designed to retain 80 percent of its capacity after 500 full charge cycles, which typically takes two to three years of normal daily use. After that, capacity declines gradually. Most people replace the battery when it drops to 70 to 80 percent capacity, which is when the phone noticeably slows down and drains faster.

Can I replace the battery on an iPhone older than the iPhone 15?

No. iPhones from the iPhone 14 and earlier require a technician to open the phone and disconnect internal components to access the battery. You cannot do this safely without specialized tools and training. Take it to Apple or an authorized repair shop.

Will replacing the battery erase my data?

No. A battery replacement does not touch your storage or data. Your photos, messages, apps, and settings remain unchanged. If you are worried, you can back up your phone to iCloud before the appointment, but it is not necessary.

What if I drop my phone during a DIY battery replacement?

If you drop the phone with the screen open, the display cable can tear and the screen will stop working. If you drop the battery itself, it can be damaged and unsafe to use. If either happens, stop and take the phone to Apple. Do not attempt to power it on or close the screen if you suspect damage.

Is it cheaper to buy a new phone than replace the battery?

No, unless your phone is very old or severely damaged. A battery replacement costs $69 to $99 and extends your phone's useful life by one to two years. A new iPhone costs $800 to $1,200. Unless your phone is five years old or older, battery replacement is the better financial choice.