How To Replace iPhone Front Camera Without Loosing FACE ID

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How To Replace iPhone Front Camera Without Loosing FACE ID
Device	iPhone X, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 16, iPhone 16e, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max
Affects part(s)	TrueDepth Camera Assembly
Needs equipment
Difficulty	◉◉◉◌ Hard
Type	Part Replacement"Part Replacement" is not in the list (Soldering, Teardown, Part replacement, Cleaning, Software, BGA, General) of allowed values for the "Repair Guide type" property.

Problem description

Starting from iPhone X, Apple introduced the TrueDepth camera system, which integrates several sensors responsible for Face ID, ambient light detection, and proximity functions.

Because these components are serially paired to the logic board, replacing the entire assembly will permanently disable Face ID.

However, if only the front camera module (not the Dot Projector or IR Camera) is damaged, it can be replaced without losing Face ID — provided the original TrueDepth sensors remain intact and untouched.

Example image (Figure 1) -- Cutting Metal Shield Around Front Camera

Symptoms

• Front camera not working or showing black screen in Camera app.
• Face ID still functions normally before repair.
• No liquid damage or board-level fault detected.
• TrueDepth assembly intact but camera lens or module defective.

Solution

To replace only the front camera module within the TrueDepth assembly:

1. Retain the original Dot Projector and IR Camera — they are paired to the logic board.
2. Cut open the metal cage around the front camera.
3. Remove and replace the front camera module only.
4. Reassemble carefully, ensuring no damage to the Dot Projector or IR Camera.

When done properly, Face ID will continue to function normally, and the new camera will work for photo/video.

Example (Figure 2) -- iPhone 11 Pro Camera After Removing From TrueDepth Camera Assembly

Diagnostic Steps

1. Test Before Disassembly
   • Check Face ID functionality in Settings.
   • Open Camera → test front and rear cameras.
   • If only front camera fails, but Face ID remains functional, proceed.
2. Inspect TrueDepth Assembly
   • Verify no liquid or corrosion on the front flex or connectors.
   • Confirm that the IR Camera and Dot Projector lenses are clean and undamaged.

Repair Steps

1. Preparation
   • Power off device and disconnect the battery.
   • Remove the display and access the TrueDepth assembly.
2. Expose the Front Camera
   • Locate the metal shield covering the front camera on the TrueDepth module.
   • Use a mini-dremel or precision cutter to carefully slice open the metal shield — do not apply heat directly to avoid sensor damage.
3. Remove the Damaged Camera
   • Heat the camera slightly and lift out the front camera module using tweezers.
4. Install New Camera
   • Align the replacement camera into the same position.
   • Ensure alignment matches original orientation.
   • Re-secure the area with a thin adhesive or Kapton tape if needed.
5. Reassembly & Testing
   • Reinstall display, reconnect all flexes, and power on.
   • Test:
     • Front camera photo/video
     • Portrait mode
     • Face ID setup and unlock
     • Proximity during calls If all functions pass — Face ID is retained successfully.

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