How to Replace the Screen on a Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you own a Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra and need to replace its screen, you’re in the right place. This guide walks you through the detailed process of disassembling and reassembling your phone to replace the screen. You can also follow along if you’re working on other issues, like a damaged battery, charging port, or camera, as many of these steps overlap.
Note: The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra has an IP68 waterproof rating and a seamless design without visible screws, which can make it challenging to open for beginners. But don’t worry! I’ll break down each step to help you through the process.
Step 1: Preparing the Back Cover for Removal
The Galaxy S20 Ultra's back cover is made of ceramic glass and is adhered to the frame with strong adhesive. You’ll need some heating tools to soften this adhesive. Here’s how to start:
- Heat the Back Cover: Place two Magic Self-Heating Pads on the back of the phone and wait about 10 minutes. This heat will soften the adhesive, making it easier to open.
- Insert a Pry Tool: Once heated, use a thin blade to carefully create a small gap between the back cover and the middle frame. Insert a plastic pry card into this gap to cut through the adhesive.
- Add Alcohol: Apply a few drops of alcohol along the edges, as it helps dissolve the adhesive for a smoother removal.
Tip: Be gentle! The back cover is sturdy but still susceptible to cracks if too much pressure is applied.
Step 2: Removing the Back Cover
With the back cover loosened:
- Carefully lift the back cover, being mindful of the microphone attached to the lens cover.
- If replacing the back cover, remember to transfer this microphone to the new one before discarding the old cover.
Step 3: Removing Internal Components
Now that the back cover is off, you’ll see screws and components you’ll need to remove to access the screen:
- Unscrew the Internal Screws: Use a #1.5 Phillips screwdriver to remove all the screws on the wireless charging coil and cover plates.
- Disconnect the Battery: With the screws removed, take out the wireless charging coil and disconnect the battery.
- Remove the Speaker and SIM Tray: Remove the top cover, speaker cover, and SIM tray to access the main flex cable and motherboard.
Step 4: Disconnecting and Removing the Battery
The battery is secured with strong adhesive. Here’s how to remove it safely:
- Apply Alcohol: Drip a few drops of alcohol along the edges of the battery to loosen the adhesive.
- Use a Pry Tool: Gently pry up the battery with a plastic pry tool, being cautious not to bend or puncture it.
Step 5: Removing the Mainboard and Cameras
With the battery out, we’ll move on to the mainboard and cameras:
- Disconnect the Cameras: Detach the front camera and gently lift the metal bracket securing the main camera.
- Remove the Mainboard: Using tweezers or a plastic spudger, pry up the mainboard. The main camera is nearly as large as the mainboard itself, so handle it carefully.
Step 6: Removing Remaining Components
You’re almost done with the disassembly! Here’s what’s left:
- Remove the Bottom Charging Board: Unscrew the two screws securing the bottom board and lift it out.
- Take Out the Vibrator: The vibrator is glued to the frame, so use a bit of force to pry it out.
Step 7: Installing the New Screen
With all components removed, it’s time to put everything back into the new screen:
- Insert Components: The new screen will be empty, so start by placing each component (battery, motherboard, cameras, etc.) back into the correct positions.
- Secure the Vibrator: Apply a small amount of adhesive or glue to the vibrator to keep it in place, ensuring it doesn’t rattle when the phone vibrates.
Step 8: Reassemble the Phone
Follow the steps in reverse order to reassemble your phone. Reattach all screws, connectors, and covers, and carefully place the back cover back onto the frame.
Final Words
Replacing the screen on your Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra requires patience and attention to detail, but with the right tools and steps, you can bring your phone back to life. Have questions about any of the steps? Drop a comment below, and I’d be happy to help. Thanks for reading, and happy repairing!
Spare parts:
[EB-BG988ABY] Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra (G988) Replacement Battery
[With Camera Lens] Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra (SM-G988) Back Glass Battery Cover (Built-in Adhesive)
Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G (SM-G988B) Charging Port Charger Connector Sub Board
Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra (SM-G988) Back Rear Main Camera Module Flex