Ah, the modern world’s love affair with slim gadgets! The sleeker, the better. But sometimes, this svelte nature leads to unforeseen accidents, like your iPad Air bending. Before you panic, let’s navigate the world of bent tech and see how to restore its former glory.
You immediately have a few options depending on whether or not you have Apple Care+. If you do, Apple will offer you a Whole Unit Replacement – meaning you get a new iPad in exchange for your old one (at a reduced price). This is a good option if you have coverage.
Another option is to try to have a professional repair shop bend it back but you’ll never get a perfectly straight frame and your screen will always be more susceptible to damage/cracking as a result. This is why some people with bent frames opt to replace the frame with a new one. DO NOT TRY TO BEND IT BACK YOURSELF without the proper tools and procedures. Any attempt to straighten the frame should only be done with the screen, and possibly the battery removed.
Finally you can try bending it back yourself but there is a high risk that you’ll crack the screen. You’ll want to remove the screen first before attempting anything – then you can use various techniques to try to straighten out or replace the housing. Always keep in mind that the components behind the display were intended to aligned to a perfectly straight screen and housing so any bends may cause them to protrude and push up against and crack your screen very easily.
Continue on to learn more about iPad frames and how they bend.
Common Causes of iPad Air Bending
First, let’s decode how we got here.
Accidental Drops:
Gravity, the necessary evil. A significant drop can cause your iPad Air to bend, especially if it lands at an odd angle.
Pressure in Bags or Pockets:
Ever crammed your iPad into a bag full of books or squeezed it into a tight space? Pressure from other objects can lead to bending.
Manufacturing Flaws:
Though rare, sometimes devices can have structural weaknesses from the get-go, making them more prone to bending.
Assessing the Damage
Before taking any corrective action, let’s see where we stand.
Screen Condition:
Is the screen cracked or intact? A damaged screen complicates the unbending process and may require replacement.
Functionality Check:
Turn on your iPad. Is it functioning as it should? Sometimes, a bend can damage internal components.
DIY Techniques to Fix a Bent iPad Air
Feeling adventurous? Let’s try some home remedies.
Using a Soft Cloth and Steady Hands:
Place a soft cloth on a flat surface. Lay your iPad on it, screen side down. Gently, with even pressure, try to unbend the device using your hands. Imagine trying to straighten a dog-eared book page! This method is highly risky to your screen and too much pressure will crack it so be careful. Sometimes it’s better to remove the screen before applying any sort of pressure to the frame.
Leveraging Flat Surfaces:
Place your bent iPad between two flat, rigid surfaces (like thick books). Apply gentle pressure for an extended period. Remember, patience is the key.
When to Seek Professional Help
Sometimes, it’s best to leave it to the experts.
The Risks of DIY:
While trying to fix it yourself might seem tempting, there’s a risk of causing more damage or even breaking the device.
Benefits of Professional Assistance:
Technicians have the tools and expertise to handle bends without causing further harm. Plus, they can assess any internal damage you might’ve missed.
Tips for Preventing Bends
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Invest in sturdy protective cases, avoid cramming your device into tight spaces, and be mindful of where you place or sit!
Conclusion
A bent iPad Air can be a heart-stopping moment, but with the right approach, all is not lost. Whether you choose the DIY route or professional assistance, remember: gadgets are resilient, and so are you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Will unbending my iPad Air void the warranty?
DIY fixes might. Always check your warranty terms or consider visiting an authorized Apple service center first. - How can I tell if internal components are damaged?
While a functionality check helps, some damages might be subtle. If your iPad behaves erratically or shows signs of poor performance, consult a professional. - Are all protective cases effective against bends?
Not all cases are created equal. Look for ones that offer rigid support and are designed to absorb shocks. - What if my screen cracks during the unbending process?
This complicates things. A cracked screen requires replacement. It’s recommended to seek professional help. - Is a slight bend harmful in the long run?
While a minor bend might not affect immediate functionality, it can make the device more vulnerable to future damages.
Hi! I’m Eric and I work on the knowledge base at GadgetMates.com. You can see some of my writings about technology, cellphone repair, and computer repair here.
When I’m not writing about tech I’m playing with my dog or hanging out with my girlfriend.
Shoot me a message at ericchan@gadgetmates.com if you want to see a topic discussed or have a correction on something I’ve written.
