Apple Watch Screen Popped Off? Here’s What to Do
Short Answer:
If your Apple Watch screen popped off, it may be due to a swollen battery, extreme environmental conditions, or adhesive strip failure. Contact Apple Support immediately or visit a certified Apple store for professional assistance.
Apple watches are a handy tool that keeps us connected and health-conscious. They are generally considered very safe and durable.
But what happens when something goes wrong, like the screen popping off? It can be a big disappointment. How much will it cost to repair? Will I lose my data? These are some questions you may be asking yourself.
This guide aims to provide clear, detailed information about why this issue might occur, what steps to take if your Apple Watch screen has popped off, and preventative measures for the future.
Read on to equip yourself with the knowledge needed to address this issue effectively and confidently.
Apple Watch Screen Popped Off? Possible Reasons Why
The popping off of an Apple Watch screen might seem like a sudden and surprising incident, but there are a few underlying causes that might lead to this situation. Let’s check them out.
Battery Swelling
One of the most common reasons is battery swelling. Inside every Apple Watch is a tiny lithium-ion battery. Over time, or due to a malfunction, these batteries can start to expand.
This phenomenon, known as battery swelling, happens due to the buildup of gases inside the battery cell. As the battery swells, it can exert pressure on the screen from the inside, eventually causing it to pop off.
Extreme Conditions
Another possible reason for this issue could be exposure to extreme environmental conditions. Overly high or low temperatures, for instance, can cause materials in the watch to expand or contract, potentially leading to the screen popping off.
In some cases, it could also be due to a manufacturing defect or a severe physical impact that dislodges the screen.
Adhesive Strip Failure
Another factor that could contribute to the screen popping off is the failure of the adhesive strips that secure the screen to the body of the watch. These adhesive strips are designed to hold the screen in place and create a seal that helps keep out dust and water.
However, over time, these adhesives can wear down or lose their effectiveness, especially under conditions of extreme heat or cold.
Just like other materials, adhesives can expand and contract with temperature fluctuations. Over time, this can weaken the adhesive’s bond with the screen. If the adhesive fails, the screen can become loose and may eventually pop off.
What To Do If Your Apple Watch Screen Pops Off
If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation where your Apple Watch screen has popped off, it’s crucial to handle the situation carefully to prevent further damage to the watch and potential hard to yourself. Here are some immediate steps to follow:
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Don’t attempt to reattach the screen: Trying to press the screen back into place might cause more harm than good, potentially damaging the connectors or worsening the battery swelling.
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Avoid exposure to water: With the screen dislodged, the watch’s internals are exposed and vulnerable. Keep the watch away from any form of liquid to prevent water damage.
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Turn off the watch: If possible, power down the Apple Watch to avoid short circuits or other forms of electrical damage.
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Take off the watch: If you Apple Watch screen pops off, you should immediately take off the watch and place it into something like zip-lock bag. It is possible that the battery is leaking due to rapid expansion. If the battery leaks on your skin it can cause burns, infections, etc. This is not medical advice, please consult your doctor if you find yourself in this situation.
How to Protect Your Apple Watch Data
While the physical state of your watch is essential, safeguarding your data should be a top priority too. Here’s how:
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Sync with iPhone: The Apple Watch regularly syncs data with the paired iPhone. Ensure that this sync has happened recently to have the most up-to-date data backup.
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Use iCloud Backup: By backing up your iPhone to iCloud, your Apple Watch data also gets backed up since it’s included in the iPhone backup.
Note that if your screen pops off, you may not be able to access the watch. But, do not worry, your watch does regular syncs with your paired iphone. So, if you have to get a new watch, then you can sync it back to you iPhone and all you data with be restored.
Contact Apple Support and Understand Your Warranty
Once you’ve taken the immediate steps, it’s time to reach out to Apple Support. When you contact them, have your watch’s serial number ready—you can find it on the original packaging or in your Apple ID account if you’ve registered your watch.
Explain the situation clearly and follow their advice. If your watch is still under warranty, the repair might be done for free, especially if the cause is a swollen battery, which is recognized as a manufacturing defect in some cases.
How to Repair Apple Watch Screen That Popped Off
When it comes to repairing your Apple Watch, you have a few options. You can send it to Apple for a repair, but the cost might be high if your watch is out of warranty.
Alternatively, you can consider third-party repair services, but be aware that this could void any remaining warranty.
Lastly, if your watch is an older model, you might want to consider upgrading to a new watch, as the repair cost might not be far off from the cost of a newer model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my Apple Watch screen pop off?
The screen of your Apple Watch may pop off due to a swollen battery, extreme environmental conditions, or a failure in the adhesive strips that bind the screen to the watch’s body.
Can I fix my Apple Watch screen if it popped off?
While it’s possible to reattach the screen, it’s recommended to take it to an Apple Store or certified repair center to ensure the issue is properly addressed.
Is a popped-off screen covered under the Apple Watch warranty?
Yes, if your watch is under warranty and the screen popped off due to no fault of yours, it should be covered. However, the final decision rests with Apple.
What causes Apple Watch battery to swell?
Factors like overcharging, extreme temperatures, or manufacturing defects can cause a battery to swell.
What to do when your Apple Watch screen pops off?
If the screen of your Apple Watch pops off, it’s crucial not to attempt to reattach the screen yourself as this could potentially cause further damage. It’s also important to prevent the exposed interior of the watch from encountering any liquid or dust.
The first step you should take is to contact Apple Support immediately. They can provide guidance on what the next steps should be, which usually involves sending in your Apple Watch for repair or taking it to an Apple Store.
If you are near an Apple Store, consider making a Genius Bar appointment for direct assistance. Remember, any self-repair attempts might void your warranty, so it’s always best to handle these issues through the official Apple channels.
How much does it cost to fix an Apple Watch screen that popped off?
The cost to fix an Apple Watch screen that has popped off can vary significantly depending on several factors. These include the specific model of your watch, whether or not it’s covered by warranty or an AppleCare+ plan, and the nature of the damage.
If your watch is covered by warranty or AppleCare+, the repair could be free of charge. However, out-of-warranty service fees can range from $200 to $800, depending on the model.
For the most accurate quote, it’s recommended that you contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store.
by Ken
Ken is a Data Analyst in the Healthcare industry and the owner and sole contributor to The Wearable Guy.