The Latest iPhone Plague: Audio IC in 7/7 Plus
Apple is no stranger to bad press in recent years, their latest battle being that they have admitted to purposely slowing down and draining the battery life on the iPhone 6 with iOS updates. A few years ago when the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus were released, another well-known Apple problem came to light. After some time, users began to notice Touch Disease, also known as Touch IC Disease. Since the discovery of Touch Disease, Touch IC repair has rapidly become one of Apple Pie Repair's most popular services.
What are the symptoms of Touch IC Disease?
Screen becomes unresponsive to touch
Grey bars will sporadically appear at the top of the screen
Ghost touching may occur
Screen will often freeze up or lag
Is the iPhone 7 experiencing the "New Touch Disease"?
The iPhone 7 and 7 Plus were released in September of 2016 and many users have had enough time with their devices and are now experiencing issues similar to Touch Disease. While the symptoms may be similar, the diagnosis for repair is not the same. Apple removed the Touch IC once the iPhone 6S was released so that issue is solved for those models and beyond. Unfortunately, due to the thin design of the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, a new problem has been discovered in these devices and that problem is Audio IC Disease.According to Apple Pie Repair owner and micro-soldering technician extraordinaire Matthew Valentin,
"Audio IC Disease is to the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus as Touch IC Disease is to the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. Different symptoms but all caused by the same poor quality of design."
What are the symptoms of Audio IC Disease?
Screen will often freeze up or lag
Screen becomes unresponsive to touch
Bootlooping (repeatedly showing the Apple logo and nothing else)
Audio issues (no audio, audio going in and out, distortion, crackling, demonic tones...no, seriously...demonic tones)
Microphone and ear speaker may not work in calls
Voice Memos application may not work
What causes Audio IC Disease?
As previously mentioned, the slim design of the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, is to blame for the Audio IC Disease repairs we have seen. Dropping the devices also does not help matters since the Audio IC can easily become dislodged. Valentin states,
"Manufacturers are constantly trying to go thinner and lighter which makes the device weaker and bend easily. IC chips on the board can't handle the flex in the frame and it causes traces and connections to lose continuity."
I Think I May Need Audio IC Disease Repair...Now What?
If your iPhone 7 or 7 Plus is experiencing the Audio IC Disease symptoms listed above, we vehemently suggest you bring in or mail-in your device to us at Apple Pie Repair. We accept repairs from all over the country. We will ensure the problem is, in fact, Audio IC Disease with our complimentary diagnosis. Once we have a clear diagnosis of Audio IC Disease, we can repair it for you!Valentin explains the process of Audio IC Disease Repair as,
"The fix consists of removing the Audio IC, repairing the weak traces, replacing the Audio IC and reinforcing the board. Sounds easy, but it takes a lot of skill under a microscope."
Frequently Asked Questions\\Audio IC Disease Repair
How long does Audio IC Disease Repair take?
While we can usually have it done sooner, we request 24-48 hours with your device to make sure everything is fully functioning post-repair.
How much does Audio IC Disease Repair cost?
$149 plus tax (or tax free if you are mailing from out of state)
Is there a warranty?
You will receive a 3-month warranty with your repair. This covers manufacturer defects, not physical or liquid damage.
What is the process for mailing in my device?
It's easy as pie! You just follow the link below and fill out the form to get started.
>>> Mail-In Repairs <<<