Are you looking to expand your iPhone 13 Pro’s storage? With many users needing more space for apps, photos, and videos, upgrading your iPhone 13 Pro storage to 1TB can be a game-changer. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the detailed process of upgrading an iPhone 13 Pro’s storage capacity to 1TB. This guide is perfect for repair technicians, DIY enthusiasts, and tech-savvy users looking to tackle this challenge themselves. Let’s get started!
Device Details
Model: iPhone 13 Pro
Release Year: 2021
Step 1: Check the Cosmetic Condition of the Phone
Before jumping into the memory upgrade, it’s crucial to inspect the iPhone 13 Pro’s physical condition. Make sure the device has no signs of water damage, drops, or previous repairs. This step helps prevent potential disputes or issues during the upgrade.
Pro Tip: A thorough initial inspection can save time and avoid complications later.
Result: After checking, the phone was in excellent condition with no signs of damage or prior repairs.
Step 2: Check Storage Capacity and Backup Data
The iPhone 13 Pro in question has 128GB of storage. Before proceeding, back up all important data using iTunes, 3UTools, or another preferred method.
Reminder: Data backup is crucial to ensure no important information is lost during the upgrade process.
Next Step: With the backup complete, you can begin the memory upgrade.
Step 3. Swap the NAND chip
Upgrading the memory of the iPhone 13 series is more streamlined compared to earlier models, as there’s no need to back up the NAND chip’s underlying data. Follow these steps for a smooth process:
Separate the Phone and Remove the Motherboard:
- Carefully disassemble the phone to access the motherboard.
- Double-check for any water or drop damage, as it’s not advisable to upgrade memory on phones that have been exposed to such conditions.
Protect Key Components:
- Apply stickers to protect the phone cameras from dust and ESD damage.
- Remove the protective foam and stickers, and apply high-temperature tape to protect the NAND chip during the heating process.
Remove the Original NAND Chip:
- Secure the motherboard on a PCB holder.
- Use a hot air gun and a sculpture knife to gently remove the black glue around the NAND chip.
- If manual removal is challenging, consider using a grinding machine to help with the process.
- Insert a thin blade into the gap and carefully pry up the NAND chip.
Tip: A clean removal will result in smooth and flat PCB and NAND pads, indicating the right heating temperature and timing.
Prepare and Install the New 1TB NAND Chip:
- Thoroughly clean off any tin and glue residues on the PCB pads.
- Reball the 1TB NAND chip using a hot air gun and an iPhone 13 Pro stencil.
- Apply a small amount of solder paste flux to the PCB pads.
- Align the new NAND chip correctly and use the hot air gun to solder it back into place.
Step 4: Restore and Activate the Phone
Once the motherboard has cooled down, remove the high-temperature tape, replace the protective foam, and reassemble the phone.
Restore the Phone:
- Use iTunes or third-party software like 3UTools to restore the phone.
- Ensure the software recognizes the new NAND chip before proceeding.
Activate and Verify the Upgrade:
- After restoring, activate the phone and navigate to the settings to confirm the new storage capacity.
Result: The phone now shows a storage capacity of 1.02TB—upgrade successful!
Conclusion
Upgrading an iPhone 13 Pro to 1TB is a detailed process but can be highly rewarding, offering significantly more storage for all your data needs. Whether you’re a repair technician or a DIY enthusiast, following these steps can help you achieve a successful upgrade. For more in-depth repair knowledge and hands-on training, visit REWA Academy.
Tools & Parts Used:
- Solder paste flux
- iTunes or 3UTools (for data backup and restore)
- Hot air gun
- Sculpture knife
- High-temperature tape
- Stickers (for protecting cameras and face ID module)
- PCB holder
- Grinding machine (optional, for easier NAND removal)
- iPhone 13 Pro NAND stencil
