Explanation of the 'Important Message' or 'Unknown Part' Warning on your iPhone

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Whether you’ve just purchased an iPhone from online or had your existing one repaired, you may suddenly encounter an “Important Message” or “Unknown Part” warning from Apple, indicating an issue with your battery, display, camera, or other components. Additionally, you may have noticed the “Unknown Part” label under the “Parts and Service History” section in Settings.

Here’s what those messages mean and why you shouldn’t worry!

These alerts surface when a repair has been done on your iPhone, giving you insights on replaced components like batteries, screens, or cameras. Though only an Apple Authorized Service Provider can change components without triggering these messages, it doesn’t mean your battery is faulty. It simply means a new battery (or camera or screen) has been installed, delivering the same top-notch performance as the original. Rest assured, these messages won’t hinder your iPhone’s functionality. They’ll show on the lock screen for some days (at start) before moving to Settings for another 15 days. That is it.

Depending on your iOS version, you’ll see different messages:

For iOS 15.2 and later, head to Settings > General > About >Parts and Service History to see which components have been replaced.

  • “Unknown Part” means the installed component isn’t recognized as a genuine Apple part
  • “Genuine Apple Part” indicates an “authentic” replacement

We’ve enclosed “authentic” in quotes because it doesn’t necessarily mean that the part is fake. Even if you replace two original components such as screens, batteries, or cameras, the “Important Message” or “Unknown Part” warning can still appear. It’s worth noting that this problem isn’t exclusive to Apple products but extends to other industries as well.

Non-Apple replacements always appear as “Unknown Part.” However, these components are functionally equivalent to OEM counterparts and perform just as well. The Core thoroughly tests each device for like-new condition and functionality, ensuring the highest quality devices and repairs.

If “Unknown Part” appears, the component has likely been replaced by a new one that works just as well as the original. Plus, your device is still under warranty for any defects.

For iOS versions earlier than 15.2, go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health (for battery), or Settings > General > About (for camera and display)

Affected iPhones include the most recent models (XR, XS, XS Max, and later). For iOS 15.2 and later, the displayed information varies by model:

  • iPhone XR, XS, XS Max, and later (including iPhone SE 2nd gen): battery replacement info
  • iPhone 11, 12, and 13 models: battery or display replacement info
  • iPhone 12 and 13 models: battery, display, or camera replacement info
  • iPhone 14 and 15 models: battery, display, or camera replacement info

For iOS versions before 15.2, expect an “Important Battery Message,” “Important Display Message,” or “Important Camera Message.”

Don’t Allow “Important Message” or “Unknown Part” Notifications to Ruin your iPhone Experience. In summary, receiving an "Important Message" or "Unknown Part" alert on your iPhone shouldn’t raise any alarms. These alerts are merely informative, signifying that a part, like the battery, screen, or camera, has been swapped out Keep in mind that the performance and quality of your iPhone stay intact. Therefore, welcome your new or repaired iPhone from The Core with assurance, aware that you have a warranty and a device that operates as effectively as the original. Monitor your iPhone model and iOS version to gain a clearer understanding of the messages, allowing you to enjoy your iPhone experience without concerns.

If the “Important Message” or “Unknown Part” alert on your iPhone is irritating you, you might want to take your device to an Apple store for service rather than visiting other repair shops. However, it’s important to emphasize that selecting Apple for your repairs could be rather costly. Although a repair shop like The Core would cost you much less, Apple's service fees may exceed compare to third-party repairers. Prior to making a decision, think about whether the message justifies spending such a large amount of money.

Ultimately, you must consider your choices thoughtfully and arrive at a sensible decision that aligns with your requirements and financial plan.