DIY

Looking forward to swapping out parts on your iPhone to make it white? How about replacing that weak battery? Better check the bottom screws on either side of the dock connector port first. According to iFixit, Apple has been shipping recently manufactured iPhone 4 units with Pentalobe screws.

This head design is similar to a Torx screw, however the Pentalobe has five rounded lobes. Pentalobe drivers are not commercially available, which makes the screws more difficult to remove. That is, unless you're an Apple authorized repair outfit.

So you've watched the videos and looked at the photos of iPhone 3G disassembly and now you're ready for action. The glass screen is cracked and/or the LCD is broken and you have no intention of spending days without your device and paying Apple $200 or more. Although the do-it-yourself attitude is noble, it could cost you even more money if you're not careful. The tutorials above are a good start, but more details can only help.

Take these tips to heart if you're going to fix the screen yourself. First and foremost don't ever buy the glass alone (typically $20). It's useless. The digitizer can't be detached from the front glass. The next best option is the front glass and digitizer together (around $60). The LCD is mounted with screws behind the digitizer and runs $80-90. Remember, you perform this repair at your own risk, and will render any remaining warranty invalid.