iPhone 4 Liberation Kit

Removing the Pentalobe screws on the bottom of the iPhone and replacing them with Phillips screws accomplishes two tasks.

1. It future-proofs your iPhone. In the unfortunate event that your iPhone needs repair, you will be ready to make any repair necessary. Phillips screwdrivers are widely available, whereas Pentalobe screwdrivers are not. In situations where getting the battery out of the iPhone as quickly as possible matters—such as after dropping the iPhone into water—you will be all set.
2. It sends a message. When people see your iPhone in all its liberated glory, they will know that you don't stand for restrictions on your hardware. You believe that repair choices should be up to the owner, that repair should be easy, accessible, and affordable.

A Pentalobe screw is similar to a Torx—except that the points have a rounder shape, and it has five points instead of six. Apple’s service manuals refer to them as “Pentalobular” screws; contrary to what some folks may say, this is not a security Torx screw. Security Torx have a post in the middle. Apple would never use a real security Torx screw with a post for two reasons: they’re ugly, and the posts break off easily with screw heads this small.

Pentalobe screws are unique to Apple's hardware. In the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S, they are used only on the outside of the phone, and they have one clear purpose: to keep you out of your iPhone.

So, don't be fooled into thinking that you have to let Apple lock you out of your iPhone! Install these Phillips screws today, and look forward to a brighter, happier, liberated tomorrow.