A light leak is also known as screen bleeding. All products with LCD (liquid crystal display) screens are susceptible to light leaks, including iPhones. If you think your iPhone has a light leak, you might want to get it replaced. However, you must first know what a light leak looks like before you can decide what you're going to do about the issue.
Identifying Light Leaks
A light leak looks like white light shining around the edge of the iPhone screen. Light leaks appear more obvious when running a dark app, viewing a dark website or during the locking and unlocking process. This is because the dark LCD screen contrasts more intensely with the white light coming from the LCD's backlight. All light leaks appear around the edges of devices. If you're seeing problems with light in the middle of your screen, this may be a dead pixel, or an issue with the digitizer (touch screen).
Cause
iPhones consist of several layers, including the plastic bezel on the outside, the touch screen, and a backlight. The backlight is constantly running when your iPhone is on, and the LCD screen sits on top of it. The LCD screen blocks out all unnecessary light from the backlight, except the light that's needed to illuminate the app or process you're running. When an improper seal is formed between the LCD screen and its backlight, light can leak through around the edges, causing screen bleeding.
Models Affected
Technically, all products with LCD screens can be affected. This includes TVs, computers, iPhones and watches. So in reality, every model of iPhone that has been created can be affected by a light leak. However, according to websites like TheStreet.com and Geek.com, the iPhone 4 has been commonly affected by light leaks. This may be because it was the first iPhone model to come out in a white case, and the transparency of the white exterior may have allowed for more light to shine through onto the LCD screen.
Fixing the Issue
Unfortunately, fixing a light leak in an iPhone isn't a simple fix. Because the problem is caused by an improper seal between the LCD screen and its backlight, you'll have to replace the digitizer. You can do this yourself if you're an expert in repairing technology. However, you should be aware that opening an iPhone voids its warranty. If you're uncomfortable performing this task by yourself, then schedule an appointment with the Genius Bar at a nearby Apple Store. If your iPhone is under warranty, you may be able to get it fixed, or get it replaced for free.
Tags: light leak, screen backlight, your iPhone, affected light, around edges, backlight light, between screen
