Apple will replace your iPhone battery at an Apple Store or authorized service provider, but the cost and timeline depend on your warranty status and which iPhone model you have.

Apple offers battery replacement as a standalone service separate from device repair. If your battery no longer holds a charge the way it used to, you can take your iPhone to an Apple Store, an Apple Authorized Service Provider, or mail it to Apple for service. The replacement takes your old battery out and installs a new one. Apple does not repair batteries—they replace them entirely.

The cost ranges from $49 to $99 depending on your iPhone model, with newer models generally costing more. If your iPhone is still under the one-year limited warranty and the battery failure is a manufacturing defect (not physical damage), Apple replaces it at no charge. If you have AppleCare+, battery replacement is covered at no cost as long as the plan is active.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple replaces iPhone batteries at Apple Stores, Apple Authorized Service Providers, and through mail-in service, but not at third-party repair shops.
  • Battery replacement costs $49 to $99 depending on your iPhone model, unless you have AppleCare+ or are still under the one-year limited warranty.
  • You should back up your data before taking your iPhone in, because the device is erased and restored during the battery replacement process.
  • In-store replacement typically takes three to five business days; mail-in service takes longer depending on shipping time to and from Apple's repair center.

Where to Get Your Battery Replaced

You have three main options for getting your battery replaced by Apple. The fastest is to visit an Apple Store in person. You can make a Genius Bar appointment through the Apple Support app or on Apple's website. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments usually get you in faster and reduce wait time.

If no Apple Store is near you, find an Apple Authorized Service Provider in your area through Apple's service locator on their website. These are independent repair shops certified by Apple to perform battery replacement and other repairs. They follow the same pricing and warranty standards as Apple Stores.

For mail-in service, you can start a repair request through Apple Support or contact Apple by phone. Apple will send you a prepaid shipping label, you mail your iPhone to their repair center, and they ship it back once the battery is replaced. This option takes the longest—usually one to two weeks total including shipping time—but works if you cannot visit a store or service provider in person.

What the Battery Replacement Costs

Out-of-warranty battery replacement costs vary by model. iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models cost $99. iPhone 14 and earlier models typically cost $69 to $79. iPhone SE models cost $49. These prices are the same whether you go to an Apple Store or an Authorized Service Provider.

You pay nothing if any of these explore: your iPhone is within one year of purchase and the battery failure is a manufacturing defect; you have an active AppleCare+ plan; or the battery failure is covered under a recall or service program. Apple occasionally issues battery service programs for specific model years and serial number ranges if a batch of batteries has a known defect. Check Apple's service programs page to see if your iPhone qualifies.

What Happens During Battery Replacement

When you drop off your iPhone for battery replacement, the technician will back up your data to iCloud if you are not already backed up. Your device is then erased, the battery is removed and replaced with a new one, and your data is restored from the backup. The entire process typically takes three to five business days at an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider.

You should back up your iPhone yourself before you go in, just to be safe. Use iCloud backup (Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup > Back Up Now) or connect to a computer and back up through Finder or iTunes. This way, if anything goes wrong during the service process, you have your own copy of your data.

Apple replaces the battery with a new one, not a refurbished one. The replacement battery comes with a 90-day warranty covering manufacturing defects. If the new battery fails within 90 days, Apple replaces it again at no charge.

How to Prepare Before You Go In

Back up your iPhone before your appointment. Use iCloud or a computer backup so your photos, messages, contacts, and app data are saved. Even though Apple backs up your device during service, having your own backup gives you peace of mind.

Bring your iPhone and a valid photo ID. If you are not the original purchaser, bring proof of purchase (receipt, order confirmation email, or credit card statement) so Apple can verify your ownership and warranty status. If you have AppleCare+, bring your proof of coverage or have your phone number ready so the technician can look it up.

Charge your iPhone before you go in. A fully charged device makes the technician's job easier and faster. If your battery is so degraded that it will not hold a charge, let the technician know when you arrive—they can charge it in-store before starting the replacement.

What Happens If You Use a Third-Party Repair Shop

Third-party repair shops can replace your iPhone battery, and the cost is often lower than Apple's price—sometimes $30 to $50 cheaper. However, using a non-Apple repair shop voids your remaining warranty and any AppleCare+ coverage on your device. If something else breaks after a third-party repair, Apple will not cover it under warranty.

Third-party shops also cannot access Apple's genuine battery inventory, so the quality and longevity of the replacement battery may vary. Some use refurbished or aftermarket batteries instead of new ones. If you are concerned about your device's long-term reliability, Apple's service is the safer choice even though it costs more.

Timeline and What to Expect

At an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider, battery replacement takes three to five business days. You drop off your iPhone, and the technician gives you a service ticket with an estimated completion date. You can check the status through the Apple Support app or by calling the store.

Mail-in service takes longer. After you start the repair request, Apple sends you a prepaid shipping label. You pack your iPhone and ship it to Apple's repair center. Once it arrives, the repair typically takes three to five business days. Then Apple ships it back to you. Total time is usually one to two weeks depending on shipping speed and how busy the repair center is.

If you need your iPhone urgently, in-store service is faster. If you can wait, mail-in service works fine and you do not have to leave your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Apple replace batteries the same day?

No. Apple's standard service time for battery replacement is three to five business days at an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider. Same-day service is not offered for battery replacement. Mail-in service takes one to two weeks total. If you need your phone urgently, ask the technician for an estimate when you arrive—sometimes they can prioritize your device.

Will Apple replace my battery if I cracked my screen?

Yes. A cracked screen does not prevent battery replacement. However, if you want both the screen and battery fixed, Apple may recommend doing the screen repair first, since the device is opened during battery replacement anyway. Ask the technician about bundling both repairs to potentially save time.

Can I replace my iPhone battery myself?

You can, but it is difficult and risky. iPhones are sealed devices with tiny screws and delicate components. If you damage the display, battery connector, or logic board during removal, repair costs will be much higher than the battery replacement itself. Apple's service is safer unless you have experience with phone repairs.

What if my battery is swollen?

A swollen battery is a safety hazard and should be replaced when ready. Do not attempt to remove it yourself. Take your iPhone to an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider right away. A swollen battery can catch fire or leak chemicals. Apple treats swollen batteries as urgent and may prioritize your repair.

Does Apple replace batteries for iPhones older than five years?

Yes. As long as your iPhone powers on and Apple can verify it is a genuine Apple device, they will replace the battery. However, if your iPhone is very old, Apple may recommend upgrading instead, since older models may have other hardware failures that are not worth repairing. Ask the technician for their assessment before committing to the repair.