Stop
A swollen lithium battery is a fire and burn hazard. Stop using and charging the phone, keep it away from flammable materials, and get it serviced right away; do not puncture or press on it.
Symptoms
- Visible gap or lifting along one or more edges of the screen
- Screen may look slightly raised or bulged
- Sometimes accompanied by a swollen back panel
- Phone may still function normally otherwise
Likely causes
- CommonSwelling lithium battery pushing the screen up from insideBatteries can swell with age or damage, physically pushing the screen loose.
- PossibleAdhesive failure from age or heat exposureThe glue holding the screen to the frame can degrade over time, especially with heat exposure.
- PossibleImpact damage that cracked the internal frameA hard drop can bend the frame enough to create a gap.
What to do
- Stop using and charging the phone immediately if you see bulging along with the gap, since this points to a swollen battery.
- Do not press down on the lifted screen to try to flatten it.
- Place the phone on a non-flammable surface away from anything combustible.
- Do not puncture, bend, or attempt to remove the battery yourself.
- Back up your data if the phone still works, but prioritize getting it to a professional promptly.
- Take it to a repair shop or the manufacturer as soon as possible for a battery swap.
Tools and parts
Replacement batterySearch: “battery replacement for [your phone model]”
When to call a pro
Get to a repair shop or manufacturer promptly; do not delay if you suspect a swollen battery.
Safety
Stop
A swollen lithium battery is a fire and burn hazard. Stop using and charging the phone, keep it away from flammable materials, and get it serviced right away; do not puncture or press on it.