Have you ever repaired your iPhone screen only to see an "Unknown Display Part" message pop up? If you're scratching your head wondering what this means and whether it affects your phone's functionality, you're not alone. This article breaks down why this message appears, how it affects your iPhone, and what you can do to avoid seeing it after a repair.
What Does the "Unknown Parts"
Message Mean?
In 2018, Apple introduced a change in how iPhones are made and repaired. Starting with the iPhone 11 and iOS 13.1, Apple began using serialized components for critical parts like the screen. Each of these parts has a unique microchip that communicates with the iPhone's main computer, the motherboard. When you replace a part like the screen with a non-Apple or non-serialized part, the system notices something is off and shows the "Unknown Parts" message. This is Apple's way of telling you that it doesn't recognize the new part.
Why Should You Care About This Message?
The immediate question you might have is: "Does this affect my phone's functionality?" The short answer is yes. One key feature affected is True Tone, which automatically adjusts your screen's lighting and colors to make it easier on your eyes depending on the ambient light around you. It's a subtle but valuable feature, especially if you use your phone in different environments. If the phone can't verify the new screen with its microchip, you lose True Tone.
Simple Ways to Avoid the "Unknown Parts" Message
Prevent Damage Before It Happens: The best fix is to not need one in the first place. Protect your iPhone's screen with a good quality screen protector. Tempered glass protectors are great as they're tough and easy to install and remove. Pair this with a solid protective case. It doesn't have to be bulky – just sturdy enough to protect your phone from drops and bumps. Good habits and the right accessories can save you a lot of trouble and money.
Reuse Original Components: If your screen is damaged and needs to be replaced, ask if your repair technician can transfer the original microchip from your broken screen to the new one. This keeps the serialized components in sync, so your iPhone continues to work seamlessly and recognizes the new screen. Yes, this might add to the repair time and cost a bit more due to the delicate work required, but it preserves all the functionality of your iPhone.
Using parts directly from Apple or an authorized service provider is the most straightforward way to avoid issues. These parts will communicate perfectly with your iPhone's motherboard, preventing any annoying pop-up messages and keeping all features like True Tone working. It's more expensive, but you're paying for peace of mind and maintaining your warranty.
The Bottom Line
Apple's introduction of serialized parts aimed to improve performance tracking and ensure device safety, but it has made iPhone repairs a bit more complicated. By understanding what causes the "Unknown Parts" message, you can make better choices about how and where to get your iPhone repaired.Whether you choose to protect your phone, use original components for repairs, or go to an authorized service provider, knowing these tips can help keep your iPhone running smoothly long after the repair is done.
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