If you’ve suddenly encountered a bright yellow or greenish screen on your iPhone—often accompanied by flickering horizontal lines—here’s what you need to know and do:
1. Understand the Problem
- Likely Hardware-Related: Many users report the issue appearing after an iOS update (e.g., iOS 16 or iOS 17), but Apple technicians often identify it as a display hardware malfunction rather than software alone.
- Common for iPhone 13 Pro/Pro Max: This defect has been mentioned frequently among owners of the iPhone 13 Pro series, with or without AppleCare.
2. Contact Apple First
- Call Apple Support: Before paying for any repairs, call Apple’s hotline (or use Apple Support chat) and explain that you have the “yellow screen of death.”
- Request a Repair Cost Waiver: Many customers have successfully received a free or reduced-cost screen replacement—even after the warranty period—if there’s no sign of physical or liquid damage.
3. Visit an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider
- Diagnostic Check: An in-store technician will run tests to confirm whether it’s a display defect.
- Free Replacement (If Eligible): If your device shows no other damage, Apple may replace the screen at no charge. However, each store’s approach can vary based on inspection results and internal guidelines.
4. Prepare for Possible Costs
- Out-of-Warranty Phones: If Apple denies a waiver, repair estimates often fall around $400–$500 (or local equivalent). It’s frustrating, but some stores have covered the cost if you persistently advocate for a known manufacturing defect.
- Independent Repair Shops: If Apple refuses to help and cost is a concern, a trustworthy third-party repair can be cheaper—though it may void any future Apple support.
5. Document Everything
- Keep All Correspondence: Note call dates, case numbers, and advisor names.
- Gather Evidence: If your phone intermittently works, snap photos or record videos of the yellow screen for proof when meeting store staff or calling support.
This widespread issue has led many to believe there’s a manufacturing or hardware defect tied to certain iPhone 13 Pro/Pro Max models.
Your best bet is to contact Apple Support and push for a free repair, especially if you’ve never damaged your phone.
With enough documented cases, there’s hope Apple will acknowledge the defect more broadly and offer compensation or refunds to affected users.