Discover what's inside the Google Pixel 3a!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Opening up the Pixel 3a
   • Where To start
   • Removing the screen
   • Removing the adhesive
   • Accessing the ribbon connector
3. Repairability of the Pixel 3a
4. Removing the mid plate
   • Removing the screws
   • Detaching the plastic lip
   • Removing the front earpiece
5. Exploring the inner workings of the Pixel 3a
   • Battery replacement
   • Unplugging side button and headphone jack
   • Removing the motherboard
   • Camera unit and image stabilization
   • Front camera details
6. USB-C charging port and loud speaker
   • Replacing the USB-C port
   • Modularity of the Pixel 3a
   • Features like a headphone jack
7. Side squeeze sensors and power button
   • Flex-sensitive squeeze sensors
   • NEON power button
8. Putting the Pixel 3a back together
   • Reattaching the motherboard
   • Situating the headphone jack
   • Securing everything with the mid plate
   • Final touches
9. Conclusion
10. FAQ

Opening up the Pixel 3a

The Pixel 3a is a popular budget smartphone known for its exceptional photography capabilities and affordability. However, before purchasing this device, it's essential to understand the process of opening it up to assess any potential issues. We will guide You through the steps and precautions required to safely pry open the Pixel 3a.

Where to start

To open up the Pixel 3a, it's crucial to know where to place your pry tool. Applying a little bit of heat to the screen is necessary, as it often breaks during the process. It is safest to begin prying open the device at the top, between the Glass screen and the first plastic lip. This area minimizes the risk of damaging the fragile ribbon cables located along the bottom of the phone.

Removing the screen

Once the adhesive at the top is cut, you can gradually work your way down each side of the phone using a soft piece of paper or card stock. It's crucial to be cautious as any contact with the display underneath the glass can shatter it. This process requires precision and should be approached with care.

Removing the adhesive

After getting a small gap, applying more heat and using the same piece of paper, carefully slice through the adhesive holding the bottom portion to the screen. As you proceed, you'll expose a single ribbon connector under a black piece of tape. This connector runs through the mid frame and connects to the motherboard with two T3 screws.

Accessing the ribbon connector

The Pixel 3a boasts one of the easiest screen replacements in 2019. With no additional steps involved, it is a straightforward fix for the most commonly broken component of a cell phone. Google deserves credit for making the Pixel 3a more repairable compared to its expensive counterpart, the Pixel 3.

Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the inner workings of the Pixel 3a and explore its repairability, camera features, and modularity.