You might possibly be able to get your iPad back with this particular model, fresh battery and all.
For the iPad, at least, changing a battery can be dangerous. Repair shops and seasoned do-it-yourselfers are aware of this, and Apple appears to agree because it frequently gives customers who want battery replacements a new iPad instead. With at least one model, Apple and its repair personnel may start changing iPad batteries shortly rather than sending them off for refurbishment.
According to a report at MacRumors, Apple is implementing a new policy for the iPad mini 6 (i.e., the iPad mini of 2021), allowing repair facilities (where devices are shipped for more extensive service) to replace just the battery instead of offering a Whole Unit Replacement (WUR) from existing or refurbished stock. Without providing further details, MacRumors speculates that “additional iPads may follow in the coming weeks and months.”
An iPad’s screen must be removed in order to replace the battery, and doing so is challenging for almost every model. It might be simpler to use Apple’s specialised repair tools, which are tailored to each device. But applying considerable suction or prying force to a long, wide, and thin display presents an inescapable physics problem. Being the smallest of them, the sixth-generation mini iPad probably symbolises a device with the highest success rate for screen removal.
iPad repairs are so onerous that some non-Apple-licensed repair shops bundle the cost of a replacement screen into quotes for replacing a battery on larger iPads, like the iPad Pro, whether to avoid a tedious process or simply assume some breakage.
Receiving a replacement iPad from Apple might occasionally be a small godsend for customers as Apple’s supply chain would correct any scratches, dents, or other hidden flaws. That contrasts with the process of needing a new battery and having to enter into dozens or hundreds of apps again after having to restore a full backup.
Currently, Apple’s Self Service Repair Store does not stock any iPad repair tools. Apple normally costs $99 for an iPad replacement when it is mailed to a service centre, plus tax and around $7 for shipping. Replacement of an iPad battery while under AppleCare protection may be covered, but only if other battery problems can be shown or the device’s Battery Health is below 80%.