❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Why will Face ID stop working after installing this part?
Face ID will stop working after installing this earpiece speaker with proximity sensor cable because Apple's Face ID system relies on a unique hardware pairing between the TrueDepth camera components and your specific iPhone's logic board. The proximity sensor flex cable that's pre-soldered to this earpiece assembly is part of the TrueDepth camera system, which includes the Flood Illuminator that projects invisible infrared light patterns onto your face for Face ID scanning. During manufacturing, Apple pairs each Flood Illuminator to the iPhone's Secure Enclave chip using encrypted authentication that cannot be duplicated or transferred. When you replace the proximity sensor flex cable with this pre-soldered assembly, you're breaking that factory pairing because the new flex cable's Flood Illuminator isn't paired to your iPhone. Apple designed this security measure intentionally to prevent Face ID components from being swapped between devices, which could theoretically enable security breaches. Only Apple Authorized Service Providers have the tools to re-pair Face ID components, and even then, they typically replace the entire TrueDepth camera system rather than individual components. This is why we clearly warn that Face ID functionality will be permanently lost when using this replacement part.
Is there any way to repair the earpiece without losing Face ID?
Yes, there are repair methods that can restore earpiece speaker functionality while preserving Face ID, but they require specialized micro-soldering skills and equipment. The earpiece speaker itself is soldered onto the proximity sensor flex cable as a separate component. A skilled micro-soldering technician can desolder the damaged earpiece speaker from your original proximity sensor flex cable and solder a new earpiece speaker in its place, keeping your original flex cable with its paired Face ID components intact. This procedure requires a microscope for visibility of the tiny solder joints, a precision soldering iron or hot air station, proper flux and solder, and steady hands with experience in board-level repair. The advantage is that your original proximity sensor flex cable remains in place, so Face ID continues to function normally. However, this micro-soldering repair is more expensive than simply replacing the entire pre-soldered assembly and requires finding a technician with the appropriate skills. Not all repair shops offer board-level soldering. If Face ID is important to you, we recommend inquiring about micro-soldering repair options before purchasing this pre-soldered assembly. Our Forest Lake store can advise on the best approach for your situation.
What does PULL-A grade mean for this replacement part?
PULL-A grade indicates that this earpiece speaker with proximity sensor cable is a pulled or harvested component from a donor iPhone 11 that has been carefully inspected, tested, and graded as "A" quality, meaning it's in excellent working condition. In the phone parts industry, pulled parts come from devices that were traded in, recycled, or had other issues unrelated to the specific component being harvested. For example, an iPhone with a cracked back glass or damaged charging port might have a perfectly functioning earpiece assembly that can be salvaged. The grading system typically runs from A (excellent, like-new condition) through B and C grades with increasing levels of cosmetic wear or minor issues. PULL-A parts offer a cost-effective alternative to brand new OEM components while still providing reliable functionality. The earpiece speaker and proximity sensor flex cable in this assembly have been tested to confirm proper speaker audio output, proximity sensor detection functionality, and secure connector fit. The pre-soldering means the two components have been professionally joined together, eliminating the need for you or your technician to perform micro-soldering during installation. This makes the installation process simpler and faster.
What causes iPhone 11 earpiece speakers to fail?
iPhone 11 earpiece speakers can fail due to several common causes that damage the delicate speaker membrane or electrical connections. Water or liquid damage is one of the most frequent culprits, as moisture can corrode the speaker's voice coil or damage the membrane that produces sound vibrations. Even brief exposure to rain, sweat, or humidity over time can cause gradual deterioration. Physical impact from drops can dislodge or damage the speaker element, especially if the phone lands on its top edge near the earpiece area. Dust and debris accumulation in the speaker grille can clog the acoustic pathway, though this usually just muffles sound rather than causing complete failure. Manufacturing defects, while rare in Apple products, can cause premature speaker failure. Age-related wear affects all mechanical components, and the thin membrane in speakers eventually degrades with extended use. Electrical surges from faulty chargers or lightning strikes can damage the speaker's circuitry. Software issues can sometimes make it seem like the speaker has failed when it's actually a settings problem, so it's worth checking volume settings, Do Not Disturb mode, and performing a restart before assuming hardware failure. If headphones work but the earpiece doesn't, hardware failure is likely.
Will the proximity sensor still work after installation?
Yes, the proximity sensor will function normally after installing this pre-soldered earpiece speaker assembly. The proximity sensor is the component that detects when you hold the phone to your ear during a call and automatically turns off the screen to prevent accidental touches and save battery. This sensor uses infrared light to detect nearby objects and operates independently of the Face ID system. When you install this replacement part, the new proximity sensor flex cable will connect to your iPhone 11's logic board and the proximity sensor will work exactly as it did before. During phone calls, the screen will turn off when you hold the phone to your ear and turn back on when you move it away. The ambient light sensor functionality, which adjusts screen brightness based on surrounding light conditions, may or may not work depending on the specific configuration of the replacement flex cable. However, you can manually adjust brightness if needed. It's important to distinguish between proximity sensor functionality (which will work) and Face ID functionality (which will not work after this replacement). The proximity sensor and Face ID use different components within the TrueDepth camera system.
What tools are needed to install this earpiece assembly?
Installing the earpiece speaker with proximity sensor cable assembly in an iPhone 11 requires several specialized tools for safe and successful completion. You'll need a Pentalobe P2 screwdriver to remove the two bottom case screws next to the Lightning connector. A Y000 tri-point screwdriver is required for various internal screws securing brackets and the display assembly. A suction cup helps safely separate the display from the phone body without cracking the screen. Thin plastic pry tools or spudgers are essential for disconnecting delicate flex cable connectors without damaging them. Tweezers help handle small screws and position components precisely. A magnetic project mat or screw organization tray keeps the many small screws organized so they go back in the correct locations. An anti-static wrist strap prevents electrostatic discharge from damaging sensitive electronics. A heat source like a hair dryer or heat gun on low setting helps soften the adhesive around the display edges for easier opening. The installation process involves removing the display, disconnecting multiple flex cables, removing the original earpiece assembly, installing the new pre-soldered assembly, and reassembling everything in reverse order. Given the complexity and risk of damage, professional installation is strongly recommended.
Can I still use passcode and other security features without Face ID?
Absolutely, your iPhone 11 will remain fully functional and secure even without Face ID working. When Face ID is disabled or unavailable, iOS automatically falls back to passcode authentication for all security functions. You can unlock your phone using your numeric passcode or alphanumeric password just as you would on older iPhones without Face ID. All app purchases from the App Store will prompt for your Apple ID password or passcode instead of Face ID confirmation. Apple Pay will require you to double-click the side button and enter your passcode to authorize payments, which is slightly less convenient but equally secure. Banking and financial apps that previously used Face ID will switch to passcode or password authentication, though you may need to update your settings within each app. Third-party apps that use biometric authentication will fall back to their alternative authentication methods. Your iPhone's security is not compromised because the passcode system is the foundational security layer that Face ID was built upon. The main difference is convenience, as entering a passcode takes a few seconds longer than a Face ID scan. Many users find this trade-off acceptable, especially for secondary devices or budget-conscious repairs.
Should I test this part before permanent installation?
Yes, we strongly recommend testing the earpiece speaker assembly before completing the permanent installation. Every part is tested before shipping from our warehouse, but testing in your specific device confirms compatibility and functionality before you seal everything up. To test, partially disassemble your iPhone 11 to access the earpiece connection point, carefully disconnect your original earpiece assembly, connect the new pre-soldered replacement assembly to the logic board connector without fully installing it in the phone, power on the device, and make a test call or play audio to verify sound comes through the new earpiece. You can also test the proximity sensor by holding your hand over the top of the screen during a call to confirm the display turns off. If everything works correctly, proceed with the full installation. If there's no sound or other issues, the part may be defective and can be returned under warranty before you've permanently installed it. Testing before installation also protects your warranty claim if an issue is discovered, as it's easier to prove a part was defective out of the box rather than damaged during installation. This testing step takes only a few extra minutes but can save significant time and frustration.
What does the 12-month warranty cover for this part?
The 12-month warranty on the earpiece speaker with proximity sensor cable assembly covers manufacturing defects and component failures that occur under normal use conditions. Covered issues include earpiece speaker failure where no sound is produced, proximity sensor malfunction where the screen doesn't turn off during calls, intermittent audio cutting in and out due to defective components, connector issues causing inconsistent connection, and any defects that were present when the part was shipped. To make a warranty claim, you'll need your proof of purchase from JPC Mobile and a description of the issue you're experiencing. The warranty requires that the part was installed by a qualified technician using proper tools and techniques, and that the device was used normally without physical damage, liquid exposure, or tampering after installation. The warranty does not cover physical damage from drops or impacts, liquid damage or corrosion, damage caused by improper installation, normal wear and cosmetic issues, or the loss of Face ID functionality (which is an expected and documented consequence of using this part, not a defect). If warranty service is needed, contact our Brisbane store for evaluation. Defective parts within warranty will be replaced or refunded.
How long does shipping take to Brisbane and other Australian locations?
The earpiece speaker with proximity sensor cable assembly ships from our Brisbane warehouse in Forest Lake with a standard two to four business day dispatch timeframe after order confirmation and payment processing. For Brisbane metro area customers including Forest Lake, Inala, Richlands, Darra, Springfield, Ipswich, and surrounding suburbs, Australia Post typically delivers within one to two business days after dispatch, meaning total time from order to delivery is usually three to six business days. Regional Queensland locations including Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba, Cairns, and coastal areas typically receive deliveries within two to four business days after dispatch. Interstate shipments to Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, and other major cities generally arrive within three to five business days after dispatch. Remote areas may require additional delivery time depending on Australia Post schedules for those regions. All orders include tracking numbers provided via email once dispatched, allowing you to monitor delivery progress through the Australia Post website or app. For repair shops and technicians who need parts immediately, our Forest Lake retail location offers same-day pickup during business hours. We also offer professional iPhone 11 earpiece replacement service for customers who prefer to have the work done by qualified technicians.
