❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Why will Face ID stop working after installing this earpiece assembly?
Face ID on iPhone 12 and 12 Pro uses a sophisticated TrueDepth camera system that includes a flood illuminator component integrated into the earpiece speaker and proximity sensor flex cable assembly. This flood illuminator is one of several components that Apple cryptographically pairs to each specific iPhone during manufacturing at the factory level. The pairing process creates a unique encrypted relationship between the flood illuminator and your iPhone's secure enclave chip that cannot be replicated or re-established outside of Apple's proprietary equipment. When you replace this entire assembly with a part from another device, even a genuine Apple part pulled from a different iPhone, the flood illuminator's cryptographic signature does not match your device's secure enclave, causing Face ID to fail permanently. This security measure prevents potential attackers from replacing Face ID components to bypass biometric security. Unfortunately, it also means any third-party repair that replaces this assembly will disable Face ID. The only way to restore Face ID functionality after such a replacement would be through Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider who have access to the specialized calibration equipment needed to re-pair the component.
Is there any way to fix my earpiece speaker while keeping Face ID working?
Yes, there is an alternative repair method that preserves Face ID functionality, though it requires advanced micro-soldering skills and specialized equipment. The earpiece speaker itself is a separate component that is soldered onto the proximity sensor flex cable. If your issue is specifically with the earpiece speaker being damaged or not producing sound, a skilled technician can carefully desolder just the faulty speaker from your original flex cable and solder a replacement speaker onto that same flex cable. Because the original flex cable containing the paired flood illuminator remains in place, Face ID continues to function normally. This micro-soldering repair is significantly more complex than simply swapping the entire assembly, requiring precision soldering equipment, steady hands, and experience working with tiny components. The solder joints are very small and the risk of damaging the flex cable is substantial if attempted by someone without proper training. If preserving Face ID is important to you, we recommend contacting JPC Mobile at 0480 039 913 to discuss whether this micro-soldering option is available and suitable for your specific situation before ordering the complete assembly replacement part.
What does PULL-A mean and how is it different from new aftermarket parts?
PULL-A refers to a genuine Apple component that has been professionally removed from a functioning device and graded as Grade A quality. The designation breaks down into two parts. PULL indicates the part was pulled or extracted from an existing iPhone, typically from devices that were damaged in other areas but had this specific component in perfect working condition, or from devices being recycled after upgrade. The A grade indicates the highest quality tier, meaning the part shows minimal to no cosmetic wear and has passed comprehensive functional testing. PULL-A parts differ from new aftermarket parts in several important ways. Aftermarket parts are manufactured by third-party companies attempting to replicate Apple's design and specifications, with varying degrees of success and quality control. They are new but may use lower quality materials or have slight dimensional differences. PULL-A parts are genuine Apple components with original Apple manufacturing quality, meaning they match your device's other components perfectly in terms of materials, calibration, and build quality. The trade-off is that PULL-A parts are not technically new, though Grade A examples are often visually indistinguishable from new. For many repairs, PULL-A offers the best combination of quality and value.
What are the symptoms of a faulty earpiece speaker versus other audio problems?
Correctly diagnosing a faulty earpiece speaker requires distinguishing it from other audio issues that may present similarly. The earpiece speaker is specifically responsible for audio output at the top of the phone during phone calls when not on speakerphone. If you experience no sound or distorted sound during calls when holding the phone to your ear, but audio works perfectly through headphones, Bluetooth devices, or when using speakerphone mode, the earpiece speaker is likely the problem. The proximity sensor, which is included in this assembly, may be faulty if your screen does not turn off when you hold the phone to your ear during calls, resulting in accidental screen touches with your face. Other symptoms that suggest different issues include no audio from the bottom speakers during media playback, which points to the bottom speaker assembly, no audio at all through any output including headphones suggesting software or logic board issues, or intermittent audio cutting out across all outputs which may indicate flex cable damage elsewhere. Before replacing this assembly, verify the issue by testing calls with speakerphone versus regular earpiece mode, testing headphone output, and checking that no debris is blocking the earpiece grille at the top of the screen.
Will I still be able to use my iPhone 12 or 12 Pro securely without Face ID?
Yes, your iPhone 12 or 12 Pro will remain fully functional and secure after Face ID is disabled, though you will need to use alternative authentication methods. The primary alternative is passcode authentication, which was the standard security method before Face ID was introduced and remains fully supported. You can set a six-digit passcode, a custom numeric code, or a custom alphanumeric password for device unlock. For Apple Pay, you will need to enter your passcode to authorize transactions instead of using facial recognition. App authentication that previously used Face ID will fall back to passcode entry. Password autofill in Safari and apps will require passcode verification. While these alternatives are slightly less convenient than Face ID's seamless facial recognition, they provide equivalent security for your data and accounts. Many users who have replaced this assembly report that after an initial adjustment period, the passcode workflow becomes second nature. The device's other security features including secure enclave, data encryption, and Find My iPhone continue to function normally. If you later decide you want Face ID restored, your only option would be Apple service, which would involve replacing the assembly with an Apple-paired component.
How difficult is this repair and can I do it myself at home?
This repair is rated as moderately difficult to advanced level and we strongly recommend professional installation for most users. The earpiece speaker and proximity sensor assembly is located beneath the display assembly, meaning the repair requires complete removal of the iPhone's screen as the first step. This screen removal process itself requires careful technique to avoid damaging the display, flex cables, or the fragile OLED panel. Once the screen is removed, you must disconnect multiple flex cable connectors with precision to access the earpiece assembly, then reverse the process during reassembly. The flex cables are delicate and can be permanently damaged by improper handling or over-tightening screws. Specific challenges include very small pentalobe and tri-point screws that are easily stripped, waterproof adhesive around the screen perimeter that must be properly heated and reapplied, multiple antenna connections that must be correctly routed, and proper bracket alignment during reassembly. For experienced DIY repairers with previous iPhone repair experience and proper tools, the repair is achievable following detailed guides. For first-time repairers or those without proper tools, the risk of causing additional damage such as a cracked screen or torn flex cables makes professional installation the safer choice.
What does the 12-month warranty cover for this PULL-A part?
The 12-month warranty on this PULL-A earpiece speaker and proximity sensor assembly covers manufacturing and component defects that result in the part failing to function as intended despite correct installation and normal use. This includes the earpiece speaker failing to produce audio, the proximity sensor not detecting when the phone is held to the ear, the ambient light sensor failing to function for auto-brightness, or any electrical issues that prevent the assembly from operating. The warranty protects you against receiving a part that was defective at the time of sale or that fails prematurely due to component quality issues. The warranty does not cover damage caused during installation, including torn flex cables, bent connectors, or damage from improper tools. Physical damage after installation such as liquid exposure, drops, or crushing is not covered. The warranty specifically does not cover Face ID functionality as Face ID loss is an expected and disclosed outcome of this repair, not a defect. Normal wear and cosmetic changes over the warranty period are also excluded. To make a warranty claim, you would need to provide proof of purchase and demonstrate that the failure relates to the part's functionality rather than installation error or subsequent damage.
Is Apple's free iPhone 12 No Sound service program still available?
Apple did offer a service program specifically for iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro devices manufactured between October 2020 and April 2021 that experienced sound issues related to a component failure in the receiver module. This program provided free repairs for affected devices experiencing no sound during phone calls when not using speakerphone or Bluetooth. However, service programs have limited durations and eligibility requirements that may have changed since this information was current. If your iPhone 12 or 12 Pro falls within that manufacturing date range and is experiencing earpiece sound issues, it is worth checking Apple's support website or contacting Apple Support directly to determine if your specific device qualifies for coverage under this or any current service programs. The advantages of Apple service, if available, include free repair cost, preservation of Face ID functionality since Apple can re-pair components, and retention of any remaining Apple warranty. The disadvantages may include appointment availability, turnaround time, and travel to an Apple Store or authorized service provider. If your device does not qualify for Apple's program or you prefer faster local service and accept Face ID loss, our PULL-A replacement part provides an effective alternative solution.
Can this part be used for iPhone 12 Mini or iPhone 12 Pro Max?
No, this specific PULL-A earpiece speaker and proximity sensor flex assembly is only compatible with the standard iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro models. It will not fit or function correctly in the iPhone 12 Mini or iPhone 12 Pro Max. Despite all four models being part of the iPhone 12 family and sharing similar overall design language, the internal components are sized differently to accommodate the different display sizes and internal layouts of each model. The iPhone 12 Mini has a smaller 5.4-inch display compared to the 6.1-inch display on the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro, resulting in smaller internal components including the earpiece assembly. The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a larger 6.7-inch display with correspondingly larger internal components. Attempting to install this part in the wrong model would result in physical fit issues, incorrect connector positions, and non-functional repair. Each iPhone model requires its own specific earpiece and sensor flex assembly. If you have an iPhone 12 Mini or iPhone 12 Pro Max requiring earpiece repair, please contact JPC Mobile at 0480 039 913 to inquire about parts availability for your specific model.
What are the shipping options for this earpiece assembly to Australian addresses?
JPC Mobile Accessories dispatches all iPhone replacement parts from our Brisbane warehouse within two to four business days of order confirmation. This PULL-A earpiece speaker and proximity sensor flex assembly is carefully packaged in anti-static protection to prevent electrostatic damage during transit, with additional cushioning to protect the delicate flex cable and connector from physical stress. Standard shipping delivers within five to seven business days to addresses throughout Australia, covering all capital cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, and regional areas. This option is suitable when you have flexibility on repair timing. Express shipping is available for faster delivery, providing arrival within two to three business days to major Australian metropolitan areas. This is recommended if your phone's earpiece issue is significantly impacting your ability to make and receive calls. Brisbane and South East Queensland customers often receive orders within one to two business days after dispatch due to proximity to our warehouse location. For local customers requiring immediate repair, pickup is available at our Forest Lake workshop located at Shop 3a, 152 Woogaroo Street, Forest Lake QLD 4078, with orders typically ready within two hours during business hours.
