Cannot get display open

Hi Gail,

Usually they're somewhat stubborn, but it's generally not impossible. Let's start with the basics.

First, you've removed the two Pentalobe screws on either side of the charging port, right? Most of the time when people have had a very hard time getting a screen off, it's been because they neglected that very first step. It's actually still possible to remove the screen without taking the screws out, but it's ten times harder and you still have to take the screws out to get the frame off so you can install a new screen.

Assuming that's done, the next step is softening the adhesive. You've got the iOpener and instructions, so let's just step through using it.

Put the iOpener in the microwave. 30 seconds is recommended; that's what I use with my 1100 watt oven. If your over has significantly less power, like say a 700 watt microwave, you might need to heat it longer; I'd probably go with 45 or 50 seconds in that case. It should be hot enough that it's uncomfortable to hold when you take it out.

Lay the phone screen side up on a flat surface and set the iOpener on top of it along the bottom edge. One minute is usually suggested, but I've often used three minutes when I want to be sure.

After that, it's time for the suction cup; secure it to the screen as close to the bottom as possible. Hold the phone down with the side of your hand while you lift the suction cup with your fingers to try and create that gap along the bottom edge. Don't be afraid to pull hard on it. Use a thin metal pry tool to insert in the gap; if you can't get a big enough gap you can start out with a single edge razor blade to get in and get the adhesive separation started. Once you've got it started, use extra picks to hold it open as you work on the sides, heating them with the iOpener and cutting the adhesive with a pick or a pry tool as shown in the guide.

That's how I do it and so far I've had good luck getting various iPhones open doing it that way. Give it a try and let us know if you still can't make any headway.