Why We Choose Aftermarket iPhone Batteries

When you replace an iPhone battery at a repair shop, you might notice a message pop up that says:
“Apple cannot verify this phone has a genuine Apple part.”

This happens because Apple serializes their parts. Any time you replace a battery, screen, or camera, Apple’s system checks the serial number. If it doesn’t match their database, you get that message — even if the part works perfectly.

But here’s the thing: we prefer aftermarket batteries for a few very important reasons.

1. Freshness Matters

Take the iPhone 11 as an example. That phone came out in 2019/2020. Apple most likely stopped manufacturing its original batteries years ago. Or if they do - they're only available for Mail-in repairs at authorized locations. If we buy a genuine Apple battery today, it’s what we call a “new old stock” battery — unused but still manufactured years ago.

Batteries age even when they’re sitting on a shelf. By the time you install them, they’re already weaker than a freshly manufactured one.

Aftermarket batteries, on the other hand, are made this year, which means they’re fresher, healthier, and will last longer in your phone.

2. Improved Technology & Higher Capacity

Battery technology doesn’t stand still. Manufacturers have improved their designs over the years, so an aftermarket battery can sometimes hold up to 25% more capacity than the original Apple version. That means longer use between charges and less frustration.

3. Safety Concerns with Old Batteries

Even “brand new” original Apple batteries can cause problems if they’ve been sitting around too long. Old stock batteries may:

• Puff up or swell (from built-up lithium gas)
• Overheat more easily
• Push on the screen or back glass, risking more damage

We’ve seen it happen too often. That’s why we stick with fresher, aftermarket options.