Add an Aluminum Back to Your iPhone 4

Fear not—it’s remarkably easy to swap out a dinged-up back for a new one or just give your iPhone 4 a whole new look.

The black glass back of the iPhone 4 is gorgeous—to us. But what if your tastes lie in a different direction, like classic Apple aluminum? Or perhaps your iPhone 4 lost a fight with some sidewalk? Then you’ll probably be surprised at how very easy it is to change the back of an iPhone 4 yourself—we can say with certainty that choosing a replacement from the options available online was actually the hardest part. We went with a brushed metal back from dixcase.com for $11.99, but a quick Google search will reveal a rainbow of colors available from several companies. So whether you’re remodeling or renovating, have no fear. This one’s so simple, you’d think Apple was preparing for the backs on these things to shatter.

1. Open It Up

Examine the two screws at the bottom of your iPhone 4. Older models will have #00 Phillips screws, meaning there’s a good chance you already have the screwdriver you need for the job (if not, hit your local hardware store for one). But new iPhone 4s have Torx-like screws that require a special screwdriver. You can buy one at bit.ly/gLtHd5 or by plugging “iphone 4 screwdriver” into eBay. Remove those two screws on the bottom edge of your phone and put them in a cup so they don’t go rolling off the table.

2. Slide It Out

Using your thumbs, push the rear panel toward the top of the phone. It’ll move just a teeny bit. Once it does, it’s off the phone, so stop sliding and gently lift off the old back.

3. Replace the Back

Slide your replacement back into place. Replace the screws, being careful not to overtighten them, and you’re done.