The Google Pixel Fold is a smartphone with a unique foldable screen design, but replacing the inner screen component is far more difficult than with conventional phones because of its intricate structure and components. Phonefix offers a comprehensive and user-friendly tutorial for changing the inner screen of the Google Pixel Fold. This post will offer helpful knowledge whether you intend to fix it yourself or simply want to comprehend the procedure.
I. Why Do You Need to Replace the Google Pixel Fold's Inner Screen?
The Google Pixel Fold's inner screen is one of the device's most critical components. Damage to the inner screen, such as cracks, unresponsive touch, or display problems, can affect the phone's normal use. Because the Pixel Fold is a foldable phone, replacing the inner screen is more challenging than with traditional phones. In this case, you may need to replace the inner screen yourself or seek professional repair services.
II. Tools for Replacing the Google Pixel Fold Inner Screen
Before replacing the Pixel Fold inner screen, make sure you have the following tools and materials:
• Hot air gun or heat pad: Used to heat the edges, soften the adhesive, and make removal easier.
• Isopropyl alcohol: Helps soften adhesive and clean disassembled parts.
• Suction cup: Used to easily pry open the back cover of the phone.
• Plastic pry bar and razor blade: Help pry open the back cover without damaging other parts.
• Torx screwdriver (T3): Used to remove screws securing cable trays.
• Tweezers: Used to easily handle small parts.
• New screen component: Replacement inner screen.
• Strong adhesive: Used to secure the new screen to the frame.
Ensure all tools are ready and the working environment is clean and tidy to minimize errors.
III. Repair Procedure
Step One: Power Off and Prepare for Disassembly
1.1 Completely Power Off the Device
Before beginning the repair, be sure to power off the Google Pixel Fold. This not only ensures safety but also prevents short circuits or other electrical problems during disassembly.
1.2 Disconnect Devices
If your phone is connected to any external devices (such as headphones, charging cables, etc.), disconnect them first.
1.3 Prepare Tools
Ensure all tools are readily available and easily accessible. Tools include a hot air gun, isopropyl alcohol, suction cups, a plastic pry bar, and a screwdriver.
Step Two: Removing the Back Cover and Softening the Adhesive
2.1 Heating the Screen Edges with a Hot air Gun
Use a hot air rework station to evenly heat the edges of the Pixel Fold screen. The purpose of heating is to soften the adhesive between the screen and the frame, making it easier to remove the screen. Avoid overheating during the heating process to prevent damage to the phone's internal components.
2.2 Prying Open with a Suction Cup and Plastic Pry Bar
After heating, use a suction cup to hold the phone's screen and gently pull up the edge of the phone to create a small gap. Then, gently slide a plastic pry bar into the gap and slowly separate the back cover and screen along the screen edge. Handle with care at this stage to avoid scratching or damaging the screen.
2.3 Treating the Adhesive
During disassembly, if you encounter areas where the adhesive hasn't fully softened, you can treat them with isopropyl alcohol. Apply isopropyl alcohol around the adhesive, wait a moment, and then gently separate it with a pry bar.
Step Three: Disconnecting the Inner Screen and Removing the Screen Assembly
3.1 Removing the Screws
After removing the back cover, you will see the metal bracket securing the inner screen cable. Use a Torx screwdriver to remove the screws and remove the bracket. Keep these screws safe for later use.
3.2 Disconnecting the Flexible Cable
Next, you need to carefully disconnect the inner screen from the motherboard. Gently pry up the cable connector with a pry bar, especially near the gold markings, to avoid damaging the flexible cable.
3.3 Removing the Old Inner Screen
After disconnecting all connections, you can easily remove the inner screen. Handle with care to ensure you don't damage any other cables or components.
Step Four: Cleaning and Preparing for New Screen Installation
4.1 Cleaning the Frame
Thoroughly clean the phone frame with isopropyl alcohol and a brush to remove all residual adhesive and dust. This provides a clean mounting surface for the new screen, ensuring a secure bond.
4.2 Inspect the New Screen
Before installing the new screen, inspect its appearance and the flexible cable connections to ensure there is no damage. If any issues are found, do not continue installation.
Step Five: Install the New Inner Screen Assembly
5.1 Connect the New Inner Screen
Align the flexible cable of the new screen with the connection port on the motherboard, carefully insert it, and ensure a secure connection.
5.2 Install the Bracket and Screws
Use a screwdriver to reinstall the metal bracket securing the inner screen cable and tighten the screws. Ensure the bracket is firmly secured and will not loosen.
5.3 Test the New Screen
Before fully encapsulating the phone, it is recommended to test the new screen. After powering on, check if the screen displays correctly and if the touchscreen is responsive. Ensure the screen display is working properly and all functions are normal.
Step Six: Glue the Screen and Reassemble the Phone
6.1 Apply Strong Adhesive
After ensuring the new screen is functioning correctly, apply a layer of strong adhesive. The adhesive should be applied evenly to the area where the phone frame contacts the screen to ensure a secure hold.
6.2 Align and Press
Align the new inner screen precisely onto the phone frame and press gently to ensure a tight seal between the screen and frame. A plastic pry tool can be used to help press around the edges to ensure the adhesive adheres completely.
6.3 Secure with a Hot air Gun
Gently heat the edges of the screen with a hot air gun to help the adhesive secure the new screen. This step helps ensure the screen is firmly installed and prevents it from falling off.
6.4 Calibrate the Fingerprint Sensor
Since the inner screen has been replaced, the fingerprint sensor may need to be recalibrated. Connect the phone to a computer and use the relevant software to re-register the fingerprint sensor to ensure fingerprint recognition works properly.
IV. Precautions and Tips
1. Patience and Care: Because the Pixel Fold is a foldable phone, replacing the inner screen requires higher technical skills and delicate handling. Be extremely careful during disassembly.
2. Professional Repair Advice: If you do not have sufficient repair experience, it is recommended to have the device handled by a professional repair technician to avoid damaging the battery or other critical components.
3. Device Reset and Testing: After replacing the screen, be sure to perform a functional test on the device to ensure all functions are working properly, including the touchscreen, display, and fingerprint recognition.
Although replacing a Google Pixel Fold's inner screen component is a difficult procedure, it may be accomplished with caution and the appropriate tools. Following this advice will help reduce the chance of damage and guarantee that your Pixel Fold is returned to like-new condition, whether you decide to fix it yourself or hire a professional repair service. Welcome to China Phonefix, where you can select your preferred repair tools to ensure a seamless repair! It's usually a good idea to get assistance from a professional repairman if you're not sure you can do this task.
