Do I need a backup or an iOS update before cell replacement?

Whether a backup or an iOS update is needed depends on the repair option and iOS version.

Retaining the original flex circuit

Versions below iOS 17.4

This option replaces only the battery cell and does not intentionally delete or modify data on the phone. The repair itself does not require a backup or an iOS update. The system version and data state normally remain unchanged after the repair.

iOS 17.4 and later

If you want to refresh battery health to 100%, you need to back up your data and update the device to the latest system version supported by that model. Because these system versions lock the underlying battery data, the corresponding procedure can refresh battery health only after the required system update.

If you do not need battery health to be refreshed, no backup or system update is required for the repair. Replacing the cell can improve actual runtime, but the battery-health value shown by the system will remain unchanged.

Adding a genuine zero-cycle flex circuit

Under the current procedure, regardless of the iOS version, the repair itself does not require a data backup or a system update for this option. A new genuine flex circuit is paired directly with the new battery cell without modifying system data.