Technology

Getting the Back Cover Off: First Impressions of This Phone’s Design – AGM M9

Written By: Andrew Siemon


If you’ve just picked up this phone and you’re struggling to get the back cover off, you’re definitely not alone. Accessing the battery and SIM card is something you’ll need to do at least a few times, and the way this phone is designed can make that first attempt pretty frustrating.

This quick write-up walks through what to expect, why it feels so difficult at first, and why it gets easier over time. Grab it on Amazon if you’re interested.

Overview / First Impressions

The back cover on this phone is extremely tight when it’s brand new. Your first attempt to pop it off will probably feel like you’re doing something wrong or about to break it.

In reality, the design is just stiff out of the box. Once you’ve removed and reattached the cover a few times, it “loosens up” slightly and becomes much easier to handle.


Build Quality & Design

  • The back panel is a snap-on cover that hides the battery and SIM card compartment.
  • It’s held in place by multiple tight clips around the edges.
  • The fit is secure, which is good for durability, but it also means:
    • The first removal can feel unreasonably hard.
    • You’ll likely need to use your fingernails or a thin plastic tool to pry it open.

The upside: once it’s on, it stays on. You don’t have to worry about the cover coming loose in your pocket or bag.


How to Remove the Back Cover

Here’s the basic method:

  • Find the small gap or notch along the edge of the back cover.
  • Use your fingernails to get under that edge.
  • Gently pry it open, working your way around the phone if needed.
  • Once a few clips release, the rest of the cover will pop off more easily.

That’s how you access:

  • The battery
  • The SIM card

The first time you do this, it may feel like you’re applying too much force. As long as you’re prying at the intended notch and not bending the cover in half, you’re doing it right.


Why It Gets Easier Over Time

The clips that hold the back on are very tight when new. After you:

  • Remove the cover a couple of times
  • Snap it back on securely

…the plastic and clips “break in” slightly. They don’t get loose, but they become less stubborn, so:

  • The back comes off much more easily
  • You don’t need to dig your nails in as hard
  • It starts to feel like a normal, user-friendly design

So if it feels impossible the first time, don’t panic. It’s not a permanent problem.


Limitations / Things to Know

A few practical notes:

  • Nail wear: If you have weak or short fingernails, this can be annoying. A thin plastic pry tool (like those used for phone repairs) can help.
  • Avoid metal tools: Metal can scratch or gouge the plastic and even damage the phone’s frame.
  • Check the seal: After putting the back cover on, run your fingers around the edge to make sure it’s fully snapped in. A partially seated cover can:
    • Flex or creak
    • Let dust in more easily

Final Thoughts

The back cover on this phone is a classic case of “annoying at first, fine later.” The initial removal feels way harder than it should, but once you’ve taken it off and put it back on a couple of times, it becomes a simple, quick process.

If you’re struggling right now:

  • Use the notch
  • Pry gently but confidently
  • Know that it will get easier after a few tries

Once broken in, the design strikes a decent balance between a secure fit and everyday usability.

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Hey — I’m Andrew Siemon, the creator behind Andrew Reviews Everything. I’ve been a guitarist for years, and along the way I’ve gone deep into the world of music gear, recording, and production — not just the fun creative side, but the real-world side too: what gear is actually worth buying, what’s overrated, and what’s just marketing.