Important Message? Unknown Part? Here’s What It Really Means (and How You Save)

Nick Skelly
Important Message? Unknown Part? Here’s What It Really Means (and How You Save)

Why Does My iPhone Say “Important Message” or “Unknown Part”?

If you’ve ever picked up your iPhone and seen a message like “Important Battery Message” or “Unknown Part”, you’re not alone. It can feel a little alarming—especially if you just had your phone repaired at Simple Cell. The good news is these messages are more about Apple’s software than about how your device actually performs.


What Do These Warnings Mean?

Apple shows these alerts whenever a key component—such as the battery, screen, or camera—has been replaced. If the part wasn’t installed directly by Apple, the system will flag it as “Unknown.”

That doesn’t mean the part is defective. At Simple Cell, we use carefully tested aftermarket parts that perform like new. Apple labels them as “Unknown” simply because they are not Apple-certified.

By sourcing high-quality aftermarket parts, we’re able to pass significant cost savings on to you. This makes repairs much more affordable, while still ensuring your device is reliable and ready for everyday use.

How Long Do They Stay On?

  • Appears on your lock screen for about 4 days

  • Moves into Settings for about 15 more days

  • Then remains quietly listed in Settings > General > About > Parts and Service History

After that, you won’t see constant reminders—the alert simply becomes part of your device history.

What You’ll See by iOS Version

  • iOS 15.2 and newer → Settings > General > About > Parts and Service History

    • “Unknown Part” = replacement part not Apple-certified (even if it works perfectly)

    • “Genuine Apple Part” = Apple recognizes it as theirs

  • Older iOS versions → “Important Battery/Display/Camera Message” instead

Depending on your iPhone model, you may see these alerts for the battery, screen, or camera.

Should You Be Worried?

Not at all. These alerts don’t affect how your iPhone works. Battery life, camera quality, and screen performance remain just as they should.

At Simple Cell, every part we install is tested and backed by our warranty. Choosing aftermarket parts means you get the same functionality Apple offers—but at a fraction of the price—helping make device ownership and repairs more affordable.