The new iPhone 4 much like the older 3G and 3Gs iPhone has the ability to be repaired by a trained technician. Repair on the new iPhone 4 although is much different than previous versions such as the iPhone 3G and 3Gs models. The new iPhone 4 is more closely related in overall design to the 2G iPhone. To many the new design will be disappointing when it comes time to do simple repairs due to the complexity and change in several key parts of the iPhone 4's design. The most noticeable of concerns is replacing the Front Glass and Digitizer on the iPhone 4. The new design can be compared to the older 2G iPhone where the glass and Digitizer are fused to the LCD screen. Some iPhone 2G users who have cracked their Front Glass in the past may have experienced a similar issue when trying to replace their Front Glass. For those users that crack their glass on the iPhone 4 a full Front Glass and LCD replacement will most likely be necessary to make the repair properly.
The Fused LCD on the new iPhone 4 poses a new hurdle while trying to replace the Front Glass. We believe Apple made the change to compensate for both space inside the iPhone 4 as well as to eliminate the problem of dirt and debris from getting between the Front Glass and LCD. Although this is good for the overall well being of the iPhone 4 it proves to be a cost issue for those needing to replace the Front Glass and or Digitizer. New glass replacements on the iPhone 4 are going to range from $ 180-220 installed as the replacement parts are much more expensive than just purchasing a new Front Glass and Digitizer. This is primarily due to the need to replace the LCD screen. Labor time has also taken a dramatic increase with the new design as much more time is required to change out the front panel assembly on the iPhone 4.
For those that are going to try to do a replacement on their own should be advised that this repair is highly technical and will also take about twice as long as a 3G or 3GS to complete properly. About 90% of the iPhone 4's internal components will need to be removed to complete this repair properly.