The iPhone 13 lineup brings an impressive array of features, but what many users don’t realize is that not all screens are created equal. In this guide, we’ll walk through the different screen types used in the iPhone 13/13 mini and iPhone 13 Pro/Pro Max, their manufacturers, and some lesser-known facts that can affect repairs and functionality.
iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Mini Screen Variants
The iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Mini models use five different screen types from two manufacturers:
- G9N: Made by Samsung, this is the highest-quality screen used in the iPhone 13 lineup. It offers superior clarity, color accuracy, and durability.
- G9Q: Also from Samsung, this is a second-tier screen. While still good, it doesn’t quite match the G9N in terms of overall quality.
- GVC: This is LG’s best screen, but it ranks as a third-class screen compared to Samsung’s G9N and G9Q.
- G9P: Another Samsung-manufactured screen, this fourth-tier display has lower quality control standards, making it less reliable.
- GH3: Manufactured by LG, this fifth-class screen is the lowest in the lineup. It’s less durable and has poorer color accuracy.
iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max Screen Variants
The iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max use three different screens:
- G9N: Samsung’s top-tier screen.
- G9Q: The second-tier screen from Samsung.
- G9P: A lower-quality screen from Samsung, similar to the one used in the iPhone 13/13 mini.
Understanding Screen Quality Differences
The difference in screen quality across the iPhone 13 lineup is subtle but significant. If you ever need to replace your screen, be aware that not all screens perform the same. Choosing a G9N screen from Samsung ensures the best performance, while GVC and GH3 from LG provide a more budget-friendly but lower-quality option.
Things You Didn’t Know About iPhone 13 Screen and Face ID
- Face ID & Screen Replacement
Replacing the screen on any iPhone 13 model will disable Face ID. This is a critical consideration for both technicians and DIY repairers. The issue arises because the Face ID hardware is calibrated to each individual screen. - Front Camera and Sensor Replacement
Good news! Replacing the front camera or sensor on an iPhone 13 will not affect Face ID functionality, unlike previous models where it was tightly integrated. - Dot Projector & Flood Illuminator Integration
The dot projector (part of the Face ID system) is now integrated with the flood illuminator. When performing a teardown, extreme caution is necessary. Any damage to these components will result in a complete Face ID failure.
iPhone 13 Boot-Up Time
One peculiar quirk with the iPhone 13 lineup is its longer boot-up time. It takes 8-10 seconds for the Apple logo to appear on the screen after powering on, which is longer than previous iPhone models. This delay is due to updates in internal hardware and boot processes.
iPhone 13 NAND Interchangeability
Another unique feature is that the NAND memory in the iPhone 13 lineup is interchangeable, meaning you can swap the storage chip between devices. This allows for potential upgrades or repairs without needing specialized components.
Conclusion
The iPhone 13 series brings a lot of impressive tech but also introduces complexities with its varied screen types and sensitive Face ID system. If you’re planning a screen replacement or teardown, ensure you’re aware of these factors to avoid functionality issues. Knowing which screen is best for your device and how repairs can affect features like Face ID will help you keep your iPhone 13 running smoothly.
