Cracked Screen - Atrix 4G General

Hi Guys,
I just wanted to see if anyone else had this problem. I pre-ordered the Atrix and got it Feb 23rd. Since then I have been very happy with the phone. Then yesterday, while at work I pulled out my phone (which has a permanent home in my front, left pocket) and I noticed a crack in the lower, left hand side that starts from about a third of the way up the left side of the phone down to the bottom, beneath the "home" button.
Anyhow, I have no idea how this happened. I have been incredibly careful with the phone. I got the Speck case first, but didn't like how it was too bulky and have been using the BodyGlove TPU case ever since I got the phone.
I feel like there must have been some defect with the glass or something. Perhaps a micro-fracture that got worse in my pocket? Has anyone else had this problem of seemingly spontaneous cracking? It's a single clean crack. I can't find any damage anywhere else on the phone (in case someone else dropped my phone without me knowing). Other than the crack the screen is working perfectly.
Today, I contacted ATT (for 4 hours!) and tried to get some sort of resolution to my problem. I was told that I was SOL and if I want, they'd "help" me out by selling me a non-contract Atrix.
I have been so ticked off since I found the crack that it's all I can think about it. I wouldn't even be so angry if I'd drop it, but this seems like not my fault at all. I bought their case and I kept the phone safe. Am I the only one this has happened to? Do you guys think I should just chalk it up to the phone gods and accept it or should I keep calling Att to complain?

Hard to say, really. I'd try taking it in to a store. calling someone... they can't really SEE the phone first hand... so they're probably just assuming you dropped the phone which caused a "crack".... which would actually usually cause "Cracks". I'm not saying it's a definite... but you MIGHT have better luck taking it to an AT&T store. I mean, insured or not, i'm pretty sure phones usually have a limited warranty for this type of stuff.

Well the digitizer screen and lcd are seperate so it should be a cheap fix. There are places online that will replace the glass for around a $100.

cracked screen
I had my replace called onsite cellular repair and they charged $140 for it.

Sounds like you leaned against something without realizing it. I too keep my phone in front left pocket and have caught myself leaning against tables and the like with my phone. I doubt very much it was a defect.
Sent from WinBorg 4G via Tapatalk

You do realise it's Gorilla Glass, right? i kinda doubt something as simple as leaning against something would do it in.

If you have insurance and can go without a phone for a couple days you could pull your sim card out of your phone and report the phone lost/stolen. You will probably have to pay a fee to the insurance company. Im not sure if that would be cheaper than just having it fixed though.

I preordered one and have been using it and picked up another on eBay with a cracked screen and replaced it. If you are interested in having it repaired I would be willing to do it. I've done iPhone 3G repairs since it came out and 3GS. That was my first Atrix. Had no issues and worked perfectly after

elementaldragon said:
You do realise it's Gorilla Glass, right? i kinda doubt something as simple as leaning against something would do it in.
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Gorilla glass does not equal indestructible, and yes, leaning against something with your body weight can cause damage, especially if you lean close to a corner. Do some research on Gorilla glass.............it takes only 4000g (4kg/9lbs) of pressure to induce radial cracking, and 800N (80kg/175lbs) to induce complete failure. So, you see, it is entirely possible to crack the glass by leaning against something!

CaelanT said:
Gorilla glass does not equal indestructible, and yes, leaning against something with your body weight can cause damage, especially if you lean close to a corner. Do some research on Gorilla glass.............it takes only 4000g (4kg/9lbs) of pressure to induce radial cracking, and 800N (80kg/175lbs) to induce complete failure. So, you see, it is entirely possible to crack the glass by leaning against something!
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Click to collapse
Well.... the video's i've seen of tests on gorilla glass seem to show more pressure required even when weakened with sandblasting. I know it's not indestructible, but it's a lot harder to break than standard glass. And even the numbers you mention seem a bit odd. 9lbs to crack, but 175lbs to fail?
Even if all that IS true.... if you, too, are one to keep your phone in your pocket, you should know that typically people who DO make one of their front pockets their phone's permanent home (Which is odd, cause it seems to almost always be the front left pocket), they generally know not to lean with something pressing against the phone. I keep my phone in my front left pocket. And it's not even basically an idea of telling one's self not to lean against it. it's basically done subconsciously. And if that's not enough, when you feel that rather large square gently pressing against your thigh.... you tend to get the idea really quick that you shouldn't be doing what's about to be done.

Dr. HerbLove said:
Hi Guys,
I just wanted to see if anyone else had this problem. I pre-ordered the Atrix and got it Feb 23rd. Since then I have been very happy with the phone. Then yesterday, while at work I pulled out my phone (which has a permanent home in my front, left pocket) and I noticed a crack in the lower, left hand side that starts from about a third of the way up the left side of the phone down to the bottom, beneath the "home" button.
Anyhow, I have no idea how this happened. I have been incredibly careful with the phone. I got the Speck case first, but didn't like how it was too bulky and have been using the BodyGlove TPU case ever since I got the phone.
I feel like there must have been some defect with the glass or something. Perhaps a micro-fracture that got worse in my pocket? Has anyone else had this problem of seemingly spontaneous cracking? It's a single clean crack. I can't find any damage anywhere else on the phone (in case someone else dropped my phone without me knowing). Other than the crack the screen is working perfectly.
Today, I contacted ATT (for 4 hours!) and tried to get some sort of resolution to my problem. I was told that I was SOL and if I want, they'd "help" me out by selling me a non-contract Atrix.
I have been so ticked off since I found the crack that it's all I can think about it. I wouldn't even be so angry if I'd drop it, but this seems like not my fault at all. I bought their case and I kept the phone safe. Am I the only one this has happened to? Do you guys think I should just chalk it up to the phone gods and accept it or should I keep calling Att to complain?
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Click to collapse
Buy cellphone insurance from them, and replace it a week later. Then if that doesnt work, you may want to try this link for new glass.
http://www.globaldirectparts.com/Motorola-ATRIX-4G-MB860-Touch-Screen-p/mot1039620.htm
And then try this manual.
http://www.ifixit.com/Teardown/Motorola-Atrix-4G-Teardown/4964/1

elementaldragon said:
Well.... the video's i've seen of tests on gorilla glass seem to show more pressure required even when weakened with sandblasting. I know it's not indestructible, but it's a lot harder to break than standard glass. And even the numbers you mention seem a bit odd. 9lbs to crack, but 175lbs to fail?
Even if all that IS true.... if you, too, are one to keep your phone in your pocket, you should know that typically people who DO make one of their front pockets their phone's permanent home (Which is odd, cause it seems to almost always be the front left pocket), they generally know not to lean with something pressing against the phone. I keep my phone in my front left pocket. And it's not even basically an idea of telling one's self not to lean against it. it's basically done subconsciously. And if that's not enough, when you feel that rather large square gently pressing against your thigh.... you tend to get the idea really quick that you shouldn't be doing what's about to be done.
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Click to collapse
Got the numbers right from Cornings white papers. 9lbs is a lot of pressure on one point, and 175lbs is pressure applied with impact at an angle of 45 degrees. I might add that sandblasting will not put stresses into materials in the same way a scratch or point pressure will. Sandblasting will weaken in a more uniform manner, (and is generally used for stress relief), whereas a scratch is more localized. When you see these manufacturer videos, advertisements, etc., you have to remember they will always make things look the absolute best, so will show what is perceived to be abuse, when in actual fact a scratch or "dent" is much more normal for everyday use. I don't know about you, but I have never accidentally sandblasted my phone, but I have dropped them, scratched them, and applied pressure to them in various ways.
In my work, I lean over and into areas a lot, and that's when I sometimes feel the pressure on the phone against my thigh. I don't like holsters. Had Otterbox for my iPhone, and it dropped more with that than anything because it always got bumped off. If I remember, I remove my phone from my pocket before activities where it can have pressure applied to it.
As for the left front pocket, with men..........that's probably because users are predominantly right handed, and hold their phones with their left hands, using the right hand to swipe, etc. (You might find that women tend to put there phones mostly in their rear right pockets also when using pockets).

Hey Guys,
Thanks for the replies. I guess it could be from the leaning. I don't think I would have ever leaned on it in a way that I would have thought should have caused any damage. If it was due to leaning, I am very disappointed in the quality of that glass. And from the look of the crack I wouldn't have guessed leaning was the culprit, but since no one else has chimed in with spontaneous cracking, I only have myself to blame I guess.
Also, thanks for the tips on how to fix my phone. I did not get the insurance so that's not an option. As for the warranty, that only applies to defects that aren't physical, which is kinda bollocks because they assume there's no such thing as physical defects. I did look into the screen replacement. Sites online charge as much as I paid for the phone which is lame and buying the screen to do myself requires the purchase of 3. Anyone else need a replacement screen or have an extra to sell?

you can get screens on ebay for 60 a piece.

Hey neotekz, thanks for your tip! I went on ebay and found lots of digitizers. Is that the part I need?
To anyone who's done this already, do you have a recommendation of which one to buy? There seems to be lots of different prices. I guess I want to get an official OEM, but almost all of them say OEM. Do you think there's a big difference between them?
Also, do you guys think there's any problem with not fixing it right away? Will it cause other problems? Thanks for your help.

Related

Help, Newton's Rings! (Oily rings appearing beneath screen)

I've heard of this problem happening on other devices (see here, here, here, and although not what mine looks like, here), but I was wondering what I can do about this problem. This is called Newton's Rings, I believe, and there's a nice wikipedia article about it. Apparently it's a problem under the screen.
It's an oily smudge. It appears to be made up of asymmetric rainbow-colored rings and is apparently under the screen. It is only visible in indoor lighting in certain angles, and is less visible when the screen is on. When pressure is applied around this spot, it appears to shift slightly. It's been present for over a week on my device without much change.
The HD2 has a capacitive screen, so the method to correct these spots (the "duct tape method") is said not to work. How can I fix this problem? I'm pretty sure I didn't cause it since I was careful with my device--it could have been there (most likely) from the time of purchase.
Should I ask for an exchange at my local T mobile store? Should I try duct tape or a vacuum cleaner to suck the screen forward, or should I try to open the device up and detach the screen, or should I beg for a return?
Help!
PS: You might want to check your HD2's as well...
*deleted*
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I think you would have to have a resistive screen to even have this problem. A capacitive screen doesn't have these "layers." And, it requires a curvature to induce the inference rings which a hard glass screen with no layers doesn't have.
I followed a couple of them threads some time ago, and if I remember correctly some users which had this problem you're postin' about have had their hd2 replaced by htc cause it should fall under warranty terms. Return it to your local t-mo store and ask for a replacement. Should they deny that, try calling htc customer care and see if you can send it in to corporate for repair/exchange. I'd recommend that you try official ways first before attempting to disassemble it or to fix it by yourself as you may end up voiding your warranty..
Since you have a US T-Mobile HD2, and it has been less than 14 days and within the return period, you should be able to get it replaced at the store.
This is obviously a problem with the screen and you shouldnt try to fix it in any way. If you have installed or modded it in any way then return it to stock condition and take it back to your store. They are obliged to give you a replacement as it is a faulty unit. do not accept anything less.
Mark.
First of all, why in the hell would you buy such a device with incredible screen real-estate... and NOT place a screen protector on it?
My screen hasn't even been touched by human hands. Let me guess, the next thing you're going to tell us is your device has a scratch on the battery cover...
Having a case on the device would have prevented such an incident from occurring in the first place. Problem solved.
Take better care of your investments folks...
Reignzone said:
First of all, why in the hell would you buy such a device with incredible screen real-estate... and NOT place a screen protector on it?
My screen hasn't even been touched by human hands. Let me guess, the next thing you're going to tell us is your device has a scratch on the battery cover...
Having a case on the device would have prevented such an incident from occurring in the first place. Problem solved.
Take better care of your investments folks...
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I seem to be confused about why you need a screen protector when the screen is glass? I was under the impression that glass screens won't scratch. I can't see how a screen protector would protect a glass screen from pressure, so what's the point?
LOL TRUE!!!!!!!! ^
chrys9989 said:
I seem to be confused about why you need a screen protector when the screen is glass? I was under the impression that glass screens won't scratch. I can't see how a screen protector would protect a glass screen from pressure, so what's the point?
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dbriese said:
LOL TRUE!!!!!!!! ^
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Alright, well... I'm not even going to dignify myself a response to your first question... for obvious reasons.
As for pressure... what PRESSURE could you possibly be applying to your device that is apparently going to render the screen useless? It's a ****ING Pocket PC, don't mistreat it. Protect your investments... it's common sense.
Seriously though, your first question... RETHINK exactly what it was that you had asked me... and then I'm pretty sure you'll realize the stupidity.
Reignzone said:
Alright, well... I'm not even going to dignify myself a response to your first question... for obvious reasons.
As for pressure... what PRESSURE could you possibly be applying to your device that is apparently going to render the screen useless? It's a ****ING Pocket PC, don't mistreat it. Protect your investments... it's common sense.
Seriously though, your first question... RETHINK exactly what it was that you had asked me... and then I'm pretty sure you'll realize the stupidity.
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I don't get the attitude, I simply asked you, or anyone else who seems to think they need a screen protector on a glass screen; why they feel that way. As far as I know, it's like next to impossible to scratch it, (unless you carry loose diamonds in your pocket) and the pressure comment was me trying to understand why you feel the need to get a protector. With all that said, I wasn't knocking you wanting one (somebody's got to buy them) I was simply trying to see if I was misinformed about the durability of glass screens.
Heh, my bling-bling may scratch my phone screen That's how you can tell they are real diamonds . Though, you make a good point, glass screen shouldn't scratch, and if anything, a crappy thicker screen protector may hinder the conductivity of your fingers? Just my guess. On a side note, had my ipod touch in the same pocket as my keys once (hate the thing, but it was free) The back got scratched to hell, but the screen was nice and unscathed.
chrys9989 said:
I don't get the attitude, I simply asked you, or anyone else who seems to think they need a screen protector on a glass screen; why they feel that way. As far as I know, it's like next to impossible to scratch it, (unless you carry loose diamonds in your pocket) and the pressure comment was me trying to understand why you feel the need to get a protector. With all that said, I wasn't knocking you wanting one (somebody's got to buy them) I was simply trying to see if I was misinformed about the durability of glass screens.
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rickyzone said:
Heh, my bling-bling may scratch my phone screen That's how you can tell they are real diamonds . Though, you make a good point, glass screen shouldn't scratch, and if anything, a crappy thicker screen protector may hinder the conductivity of your fingers? Just my guess. On a side note, had my ipod touch in the same pocket as my keys once (hate the thing, but it was free) The back got scratched to hell, but the screen was nice and unscathed.
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Alright. Well, my apologies for the "disrespect".
I'm merely saying that a screen sleeve, protector, or WHATEVER is how someone could go about preventing the oil corrosion that occurs from natural skin oils on the screen.
This isn't oil corrosion. No disrespect from me either, but this unit actually had a screen protector. And a case. So thanks, but no thanks.
curiousGeorge said:
This isn't oil corrosion. No disrespect from me either, but this unit actually had a screen protector. And a case. So thanks, but no thanks.
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I had exactly the same situation with my old Hermes (going back quite a few years). I got it through the post from Tmobile and was playing happily with it for about half an hour until I noticed an oily patch exactly as you describe. Rang up Customer Support and they asked me if I had sat on the phone or knocked it in any way.. And this was after having the phone in my possession for 30 minutes HAHA in the end they told me to take the phone to the nearest store to confirm the problem and I got a straight replacement.
I think its caused by a leak in the LCD. You can try, as sugested on other threads to get some tape and try to pull the glass away from the liquid but this would only really be worth trying if your phone was out of manufacturers warranty. Since you have not had your phone long at all you are entitled to a direct replacement under the Sale of Goods Act.
Going back to earlier posts, too much pressure could cause this sort of problem but as stated with a good quality glass which the HD2 has this is very unlikely unless you had an elephant sit on it
More likely the LCD is defective and if the oily patch is noticeble to you then the seller has no other recourse. If I was you I would deal with this matter as soon as possible though so that you get a stisfactory result.
Mark.
Hey guys.
looking at your device, you have the same problem i have on my HTC TOUCH HD, mine had a small point in the middle, and after a few months it become bigger and now my screen wont work properly.
it means when i perss lets say "START" button, it reacts at the X button in the right of the screen.
adter looking over the net and reading about it, i can see a lot of devices from HTC has this problem, guess its a bad building quality who knows.
maybe it got hit a few times at the screen, maybe pressure who knows.
the thing is, CHANGE THE DEVICE before your screen wont react anymore, mine is Resistive screen. so i took a small niddle and lifted the screen from the left (the volume side) and squeezd it a bit, it went out, but a bit more came back after, that means something or some fluid is between tha screen, the Gap maybe i dont know.
ive also tried with a DUCT TAPE - worked for a few minutes than it came back again, but even when the oily part was gone the screen still was reacting not as before.
also there is a bad sound from the place you have the oily part under it' like if you press it with the Stylus or just your finger.
BE CAREFUL with thos devices!
Also ive heard something about PRESSURE differents between cities / countries and simillar can cause the screen defect.
for example - i live NOW in Eilat, its in Israel, and its a very very low place, i go home once a month, to a higher place (300M above), and it happaned since i moved here. it can be one more of the reasons to cause this defect.
well, my device is ruind, it can barely work now sometimes, if i press the screen from all of the sides or lifting it up with a niddle!
and that sucks!
BTW USE YOUR WARRENTY.
dont let HTC run away from their defaults and defects with thos devices, why do we have to pay on their mistakes of not making a good resistance materials for thos devices...its stupid.
specialy when it happanes to a lot of people with the same Devices!
i dont see any APPLE users having thos peoblems with IPOD / IPHONE!
liav12 said:
Hey guys.
looking at your device, you have the same problem i have on my HTC TOUCH HD, mine had a small point in the middle, and after a few months it become bigger and now my screen wont work properly.
it means when i perss lets say "START" button, it reacts at the X button in the right of the screen.
adter looking over the net and reading about it, i can see a lot of devices from HTC has this problem, guess its a bad building quality who knows.
maybe it got hit a few times at the screen, maybe pressure who knows.
the thing is, CHANGE THE DEVICE before your screen wont react anymore, mine is Resistive screen. so i took a small niddle and lifted the screen from the left (the volume side) and squeezd it a bit, it went out, but a bit more came back after, that means something or some fluid is between tha screen, the Gap maybe i dont know.
ive also tried with a DUCT TAPE - worked for a few minutes than it came back again, but even when the oily part was gone the screen still was reacting not as before.
also there is a bad sound from the place you have the oily part under it' like if you press it with the Stylus or just your finger.
BE CAREFUL with thos devices!
Also ive heard something about PRESSURE differents between cities / countries and simillar can cause the screen defect.
for example - i live NOW in Eilat, its in Israel, and its a very very low place, i go home once a month, to a higher place (300M above), and it happaned since i moved here. it can be one more of the reasons to cause this defect.
well, my device is ruind, it can barely work now sometimes, if i press the screen from all of the sides or lifting it up with a niddle!
and that sucks!
BTW USE YOUR WARRENTY.
dont let HTC run away from their defaults and defects with thos devices, why do we have to pay on their mistakes of not making a good resistance materials for thos devices...its stupid.
specialy when it happanes to a lot of people with the same Devices!
i dont see any APPLE users having thos peoblems with IPOD / IPHONE!
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Click to collapse
All touchscreens suffer from defects (yes even ipdods and iphones lol). The trick is to send it back the moment you spot it and not sit on it and wait, hoping it will go away. It wont. You can use the tape method to pull the screen away from the bleed but the liquid will still be there and sooner or later it will just come back.
I noticed a bleed on my OLD hermes the day I got it from brand new, rang up the shop (tmobile uk) and they tried to tell me that I must have sat on it or dropped it. Everyone who purchases a device has a right that it will work for a 'reasonable' amount of time without defects appearing so you have to push your rights and get it changed (not fixed) for a new device.
If your device is out of warranty and you have a bleed on the screen the only thing you can really do is change the screen. These can be found on ebay and not that hard to do. For your Touch HD you can get one *HERE* but you have to weigh up whether its cheaper to just buy a new device or fix the one you have.
And I dont really think atmospheric pressure between different places would have any affect as lcd screens are built to work pretty much anywhere and if that was the case every time someone got on a plane their device would go capput.
Mark.
i know! that sounds not reasonable, but i looked at someone's Thread about that he went out of a plane and he noticed a huge spot in the middle of the screen, and few days later after going back on the flight it was gone.
that thing is very strange.
btw thank you for the link..
liav12 said:
i know! that sounds not reasonable, but i looked at someone's Thread about that he went out of a plane and he noticed a huge spot in the middle of the screen, and few days later after going back on the flight it was gone.
that thing is very strange.
btw thank you for the link..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ur welcome
Mark.

Screen lifting

Has anyone else encountered the screen starting to lift by the ear piece?
Sent from my Liberty using XDA App
uborame posted about this problem in a thread about a week back (I'd link it, but for some reason I'm not allowed to), and I've had the same problem, bringing us to a count of 3 reports that I've seen. It seems as though this is a somewhat rare issue, but isn't isolated to just one device...
Do you use a case? I don't, but could see how a case might hold things together such that it would prevent this issue.
I'm actually planning on returning my Aria and moving up to the Captivate since I'm in the 30 day window and can get the Captivate for the same price I paid for the Aria. The screen separation issue and chatter about what upgrades this phone may or may not get have me concerned about its longevity.
The Aria uses a two piece screen/digitizer assembly; as in the digitizer glass sitting over the screen. What you are experiencing is the digitizer seperating from the display beneath it; it's simply held in place with the usual double-sided foamy tape.
RepairsUniverse has a video on how to disassemble/replace the screen -- That's the info you need to get at it... but you'll only have to go about half way, enough to get the digitizer seperated.. then replace the tape, reseat, reassemble.
The Aria is *not* a durable phone; IMHO one of the more breakage prone units... Kind of regret going with it for this reason, but figure I'll just learn it inside out and keep fixing it until it's FUBAR.
Honestly the screen issue doesn't bug me much. The digitizer is a 50 dollar part I can replace in <1 hr if I screw up and kill it again -- My main concern is water damage -- The way the case mates with the screen/digitizer looks like a real invitation for capillary action to destroy the phone with just a little bit of fluid... We'll see how that works out...
My phone also seems to have this issue. The left side of the screen has lifted itself ~.5mm higher than the wall of the backplate. I noticed this a couple of days after I bought the phone, but I brushed it off assuming I was just being critical.
Very unfortunate...

N1 got dropped, do I need anger management?

The screen impacted the floor squarely and the phone was naked. Bottom panel popped out of alignment, though thankfully it could be popped back in. There's a new scratch at the bottom of the front. FFFFUUUUUUUU.
I mean sure, it still functions as normal--and to this I must testify for HTC's build quality--but ****ing **** ****. It'd be one thing if I was the one clumsy enough to drop it, but it's a co-worker's clumsiness which sent me into quite a rage. I was this close to demanding that he either buys me a replacement or gives me the money to buy one, because honestly ****ing **** is it so hard to be mindful of other people's belongings, especially expensive belongings?
God.
Yea, it really sucks to drop a naked N1. I remember walking out of the gym once and I pulled my keys out of my pocket. My N1 decided to go along for the ride and jumped right out and landed on the ground. I was so pissed at myself. After noticing the scratches, I cried a little inside. But it's okay though, I just remind myself that it's just a phone and I will be getting a new one in less than a year.
I've dropped my nexus so many times I've lost count.
It really does suck though, it's so damn expensive that it's almost a part of you.
I have dropped my phone also, not a N1 but a Droid and the first time i almost wanted to cut off my clumsy hands, but as DOHCtor says i remember it's just a phone and if by any chance was broken i could do nothing but buy another (Although at that moment i didn't have enough money to do it right away).
Fortunately my droid keeps working
Yeah, I'm glad it's still working and come some time next year I'll be getting a new phone, but grrrrr. Right now I don't really want to change yet because the phone's nice and I like it, and even if I managed to squeeze the dude for a new-phone fund, I'd have been quite heartbroken.
My next phone's going to be aluminium.
DOHCtor said:
Yea, it really sucks to drop a naked N1. I remember walking out of the gym once and I pulled my keys out of my pocket. My N1 decided to go along for the ride and jumped right out and landed on the ground. I was so pissed at myself. After noticing the scratches, I cried a little inside. But it's okay though, I just remind myself that it's just a phone and I will be getting a new one in less than a year.
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Click to collapse
So you have your phone in your pocket with your keys? Seriously?
I dropped my phone once onto road, chipped a small bit off the top right, i felt terrible about it. Im very careful with it these days, i still haven't got any idea what a replacement phone would be like, the N1 is still the best imo.
noooooo you people are insane. or i am just OCD about chit like that. yes its just a phone if you look at it. however, that one scratch, nick or dent will haunt you til you get a replacement. I remember my first real cell phone back in the days. "NOKIA 8900" yes the slider. i cradled that thing like my first born. one day my friend asked to see it and she decided to close the lid by slamming the phone to the table. I nearly killed her. ever since then, when they ask, i say no and say its just a phone. LOL.
I don't know i am maybe little insane but i just cant over look the damage. i prob replace it or change out the casing. i done that many times. however, if you were looking to replace it no biggie.
PS. I know somebody who can take care of your coworker if you want.
sl8125 said:
PS. I know somebody who can take care of your coworker if you want.
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How much are we talking about?
Not much..... lol.
Plus its different when others drop your phone. When you do it you can shrug it off but others.... i don't know I'd I can handle it.....
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
Bummer! Hope u can fix it up. I keep mine in a bank safe
yeah i'm terrified of damaging my N1 that i just got and the guy i bought it from had dropped it once and it has a few dings on 1 side at the corners from it.
this is probably the first phone i've had that will stay in a rubber case most of the time. its just too thin and small in my clumsy hand to use without it i'm certain i would drop it and these screens break even easier than older phones did because the glass is so close to the edge of the housing.
my G1 however took many falls and the screen stayed intact. i was surprised how well it has held up. i used it for 2 years straight with no case.
to the guy who keeps his N1 in the same pocket as his keys, thats a recipe for disaster. remember glass is hard and brittle. when objects that are as hard or harder than glass touch, press or hit glass like a key or a rock the glass is more often than not going to break and at the very least get scratched and scratches if good enough can develop into a crack pretty easily.
i always have and always will keep my phone with screen facing my thigh in my pocket opposite of the pocket i keep my keys in
grainysand said:
...
My next phone's going to be aluminium.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Aluminum scratches and dents worse than plastic! I'd choose plastic over aluminum. But that Liquidmetal material (a special patented alloy of titanium and other stuff that has no ordered crystal structure) looks pretty good; it might be tough enough. Hopefully more manufacturers will start using it.
Yall dont use cases?????
Frito11 said:
yeah i'm terrified of damaging my N1 that i just got and the guy i bought it from had dropped it once and it has a few dings on 1 side at the corners from it.
this is probably the first phone i've had that will stay in a rubber case most of the time. its just too thin and small in my clumsy hand to use without it i'm certain i would drop it and these screens break even easier than older phones did because the glass is so close to the edge of the housing.
my G1 however took many falls and the screen stayed intact. i was surprised how well it has held up. i used it for 2 years straight with no case.
to the guy who keeps his N1 in the same pocket as his keys, thats a recipe for disaster. remember glass is hard and brittle. when objects that are as hard or harder than glass touch, press or hit glass like a key or a rock the glass is more often than not going to break and at the very least get scratched and scratches if good enough can develop into a crack pretty easily.
i always have and always will keep my phone with screen facing my thigh in my pocket opposite of the pocket i keep my keys in
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, no, the nexus screen doesnt scratch easy http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RfqwKa4bT74
I don't usually put my keys and phone in the same pocket, it just happen to be in the same pocket at that time. And besides, my keys only consist of a car key and house key. It's not like I'm a janitor.
You could be the most careful guy in the world, but it just takes one bad drop and your phone could be done. I haven't seen it happen with the Nexus, but that's because no one I know has one. I've seen it with a handful of iPhones and other touch screen phones though.. It's well worth the investment to protect a $600 device
sl8125 said:
Plus its different when others drop your phone. When you do it you can shrug it off but others.... i don't know I'd I can handle it.....
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly. You can't very well punch someone over a phone, people'd think you are a complete lunatic. But the urge is there. Oh, how it is there.
S_Dot said:
Actually, no, the nexus screen doesnt scratch easy http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RfqwKa4bT74
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good god, you think this video is real? It's faked, he's not pressing hard at all.
Besides, it's not the "one time" that'll necessarily get you, it's the "every day" stuff that gets you. The screen will get dull, the paint will start dulling.. There's zero chance I'll ever put my phone in my pocket with keys, coins, etc. In fact I rarely put it in my pocket at all, 99% of the time it's in my Krussel case.
Yeah I work in the glass industry the thinner the glass is the harder it is to scratch but the easier it is to break.
My nexus has a hand full of scratches on the screen
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App

[Q] 1 week old, Hairline crack, Probably no coverage?

So I upgraded from my Galaxy S3 to my new S4 with Telus last week.
Yesterday night I was sitting down playing with my phone. I put it in my front pocket, and then took it back out less than 30 seconds later, while still sitting. I keep my phone in an otterbox, with screen protector, and keep nothing else in the pocket I keep my phone.
When I took my phone out, I noticed the display wasn't working. Sounds, etc were fine. After careful examination I noticed 2 small hairline cracks, one from the top middle, going down/left to the side, and another from the left/middle, going towards the other crack - however there is a large space in between where it is not cracked.
The cracks are NOT on the outside plastic piece, nor on the screen protector. They are on the inside screen only. There is some pixelization on the "top" area past the crack, and solid black/not working on the bottom. Never dropped this phone, put any excessive stress/pressure on it - absolutely blows my mind how this could happen.
So I went to Telus today to speak to them, they looked at it and the sales lady confirmed theres no impact marks on front/back and it just seems strange. The manager told me if they sent it away it would be 99% chance not covered under warranty and I would have to pay. He told me my best chance of anything, is to call Samsung. I left more than unimpressed.
So I call Samsung this afternoon. I tell them exactly what happened, draw the scenario out clearly - He tells me physical damage is not covered under warranty and screens do not break themselves. I tell him I agree, but there was no negligence on my part and I feel this must be a defect of some sort. He tells me he has never heard of this happening before and there is nothing he can do for me. I tell him we are are a wall and not understanding each other and ask to speak to a supervisor. Supervisor tells me the best they can do is give me a USP parcel to send my phone in to get looked at. If it's determined if it's physical damage, then I will have to pay to get it fixed and they will send me a quote and the phone back, if it's a defect of some sort they will cover it.
Just by the language that was used in the conversation (IE: Physical Damage, not covered) I don't have very high hopes on this matter. I understand it's physical damage, but that is very broad language. It's not physical damage due to negligence, but can this be proved one way or another? If only the screen shows a hairline crack, but nothing else - could this be my fault? If they do tell me it's not covered and I am to pay - What more can I do? Aside trying to fight Samsung in court over this (High cost, time, chance loosing and paying more), what are my options? Has anyone ever seen this happen before?
I'll upload some pictures in awhile.
Edit: Wow i'm not the only one, this guy wanst using a case though but still! I had an otter box on mine.
TL;DR - Screen broke, never dropped it or used carelessly, Telus won't do anything. Good chance Samsung wont cover it. What do
I had the same issue with my s3 that was in a Otterbox defender... Tmobile and Samsung told me the same thing and I was very disappointed...
The cracks wasn't even visible outside the Otterbox
X10a-Freedom
And the pictures...
Could the otterbox be putting compression stress on the phone edges?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda premium
I've noticed this device doesn't seem very sturdy. I wouldn't suggest trying this, but if you just hold each end long-ways and give your hands a slight twist it seems it's very flimsy. I don't doubt the gorilla glass 3 is strong as balls but the underlying screen isn't, which is what seems to be cracking a lot.
I think samsung made the phone so thin and poor choice of plastic grade that it can't withstand some normal wear and tear very easily. Had samsung choice an extremely tough plastic compound it may be a different story. Ever seen the plastics used on R/C cars? That stuff is tougher than nails! But hey, at least your screen won't get scratched!
orlandoxpolice said:
Could the otterbox be putting compression stress on the phone edges?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was thinking the same thing since my phone was never dropped or anything like that... In my case I would have never noticed my cracking if I didn't clean it
X10a-Freedom
I'm not sure about the otterbox case putting unnesseary stress on the phone or not. I dug up a few threads on here related to simmilar problems with the S4 - Others have had "pockets breaking AMOLED's" have NOT had a case on their phone.
Tough to say. I guess the case helps from impact damage such as a fall, but the AMOLED screen is still too fragile from flexing, case or no case.
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$199 replacement- should I do it?

So here is the situation. My PH-1, defying logic, has a cracked screen despite me having a case and a screen protector on it. It started out as a hairline crack at the top of the screen but also with a fair amount of corner damage. What doesn't make any sense is that before I purchased the case and screen protector the phone survived quite a few drops without a scratch. Yesterday I dropped it again, on its back, and upon turning the phone over know it is really shattered. Still works but it is in rough shape.
I scored the phone on the Sprint deal at 145 plus the camera so I can't really complain if I have to spend another 199 to have a new phone. The problem is, I don't want to spend another 199 if the same thing is going to happen again. I have never had a phone crack with both a case and a screen protector installed before. That being said, the screen protector was a poor fit and did not cover the corners at all. It almost seems as if the case had a negative effect which is also very odd. No damage before installing the case.
Just wondering if this is a rare occasion or if it is common.
I really like the phone and I want the company to succeed. But if they are this fragile I would probably pick up an LG or an HTC.
I am on Verizon so a One Plus isn't an option.
chiadrum said:
So here is the situation. My PH-1, defying logic, has a cracked screen despite me having a case and a screen protector on it. It started out as a hairline crack at the top of the screen but also with a fair amount of corner damage. What doesn't make any sense is that before I purchased the case and screen protector the phone survived quite a few drops without a scratch. Yesterday I dropped it again, on its back, and upon turning the phone over know it is really shattered. Still works but it is in rough shape.
I scored the phone on the Sprint deal at 145 plus the camera so I can't really complain if I have to spend another 199 to have a new phone. The problem is, I don't want to spend another 199 if the same thing is going to happen again. I have never had a phone crack with both a case and a screen protector installed before. That being said, the screen protector was a poor fit and did not cover the corners at all. It almost seems as if the case had a negative effect which is also very odd. No damage before installing the case.
Just wondering if this is a rare occasion or if it is common.
I really like the phone and I want the company to succeed. But if they are this fragile I would probably pick up an LG or an HTC.
I am on Verizon so a One Plus isn't an option.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think what happened to you is a one off. You should go buy a lotto ticket maybe? On the bright side, you'd still be paying less than what I paid for 1 PH-1 with the 360 cam, used. I bought my combo from swappa in mint condition for $390. You're only at $344, and you got 2 phones Granted one bit the dust. But if I were you, I'd get the replacement. I'm not sure there is a better phone out yet, imo. Only thing to make this phone better on gen 2 would be to get rid of the black bar at the bottom so it is completely bezeless, and to up the IP rating to 68 at LEAST 67. Motorized selfie cam? No notch? That would be nice. I hardly ever use the selfie cam anyway. Just my $0.02. If mine broke, I'd be buying another one
surface13 said:
I think what happened to you is a one off. You should go buy a lotto ticket maybe? On the bright side, you'd still be paying less than what I paid for 1 PH-1 with the 360 cam, used. I bought my combo from swappa in mint condition for $390. You're only at $344, and you got 2 phones Granted one bit the dust. But if I were you, I'd get the replacement. I'm not sure there is a better phone out yet, imo. Only thing to make this phone better on gen 2 would be to get rid of the black bar at the bottom so it is completely bezeless, and to up the IP rating to 68 at LEAST 67. Motorized selfie cam? No notch? That would be nice. I hardly ever use the selfie cam anyway. Just my $0.02. If mine broke, I'd be buying another one
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's kind of what I was thinking. Just hoping to NOT see other reports of similar breakage.
Thanks for the .02
chiadrum said:
That's kind of what I was thinking. Just hoping to NOT see other reports of similar breakage.
Thanks for the .02
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I literally just put my broken one in the mailbox to go back to Essential (Asurion is actually the insurance claim handling company). Mailman hasn't even picked it up yet. I cloned everything into the new replacement last night w/TWRP. So, there was virtually no on-screen setup (security/fingerprints had to be redone), and I'm back up and running as if my phone was simply repaired. That's something that's just not possible with a different phone.
Essential was quick about responding. They take 1 biz day to process and the replacement is sent FedEx Standard overnight.
I am overall disappointed with the fragility of the phone as its durability was a major selling point for me. Essential still has that PH-1 bouncing and tumbling on concrete on their homepage. But, right now there is not another phone with the dimensions, design quality, and components that can compare to this. Now, if I broke another one, I probably would not do it again, unless the price was at least half.
I am a little concerned about your situation being that you had screen protection and a case. But if I were you, I would still do the replacement, and try completely different protective devices. Especially since you got such a deal on the first one, I think it would be a no-brainer for me. I paid $350 for mine w/no 360 cam, and I still did the replacement.
I mean, even knowing this outcome, (I'm $550 in at this point) I still don't think I would have went for the OnePlus 5T. I really appreciate the form factor of this phone, and I plan to baby this replacement.
GospelNerd said:
I literally just put my broken one in the mailbox to go back to Essential (Asurion is actually the insurance claim handling company). Mailman hasn't even picked it up yet. I cloned everything into the new replacement last night w/TWRP. So, there was virtually no on-screen setup (security/fingerprints had to be redone), and I'm back up and running as if my phone was simply repaired. That's something that's just not possible with a different phone.
Essential was quick about responding. They take 1 biz day to process and the replacement is sent FedEx Standard overnight.
I am overall disappointed with the fragility of the phone as its durability was a major selling point for me. Essential still has that PH-1 bouncing and tumbling on concrete on their homepage. But, right now there is not another phone with the dimensions, design quality, and components that can compare to this. Now, if I broke another one, I probably would not do it again, unless the price was at least half.
I am a little concerned about your situation being that you had screen protection and a case. But if I were you, I would still do the replacement, and try completely different protective devices. Especially since you got such a deal on the first one, I think it would be a no-brainer for me. I paid $350 for mine w/no 360 cam, and I still did the replacement.
I mean, even knowing this outcome, (I'm $550 in at this point) I still don't think I would have went for the OnePlus 5T. I really appreciate the form factor of this phone, and I plan to baby this replacement.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I am addicted to the form factor after having the hand stretching, ache causing Nexus 6. And the fingerprint scanner for unlocking and notifications. What caused your breakage? Did you have a case and/or screen protector?
chiadrum said:
Yeah, I am addicted to the form factor after having the hand stretching, ache causing Nexus 6. And the fingerprint scanner for unlocking and notifications. What caused your breakage? Did you have a case and/or screen protector?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine fell from my back pocket onto concrete, about 1.5 ft drop. I had a case.... in my backpack . It's just too pretty a phone to want to case it much. But, that's all over for me now.
GospelNerd said:
Mine fell from my back pocket onto concrete, about 1.5 ft drop. I had a case.... in my backpack . It's just too pretty a phone to want to case it much. But, that's all over for me now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You cracked yours?
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk
Yep I did. I bet if I could have watched it happen in slow motion, it would have looked just like the video on the Essential homepage, except...crack!
chiadrum said:
So here is the situation. My PH-1, defying logic, has a cracked screen despite me having a case and a screen protector on it. It started out as a hairline crack at the top of the screen but also with a fair amount of corner damage. What doesn't make any sense is that before I purchased the case and screen protector the phone survived quite a few drops without a scratch. Yesterday I dropped it again, on its back, and upon turning the phone over know it is really shattered. Still works but it is in rough shape.
I scored the phone on the Sprint deal at 145 plus the camera so I can't really complain if I have to spend another 199 to have a new phone. The problem is, I don't want to spend another 199 if the same thing is going to happen again. I have never had a phone crack with both a case and a screen protector installed before. That being said, the screen protector was a poor fit and did not cover the corners at all. It almost seems as if the case had a negative effect which is also very odd. No damage before installing the case.
Just wondering if this is a rare occasion or if it is common.
I really like the phone and I want the company to succeed. But if they are this fragile I would probably pick up an LG or an HTC.
I am on Verizon so a One Plus isn't an option.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I try not to drop fragile electronic devices.
On the other hand I can be a dolt so I always get insurance.
I got a SquareTrade coverage on this phone right after I got it.
It was $140 for three years with a $75 deductible for repairs.
So I suggest getting a SquareTrade warranty on the next one.
It also adds value when you want to sell it.
tech_head said:
I got a SquareTrade coverage on this phone right after I got it. It was $140 for three years with a $75 deductible for repairs. So I suggest getting a SquareTrade warranty on the next one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since the 'out-of-warranty' replacement is $199, unless you think you might go through more than one replacement, neither the extended warranty from Essential, or the price you gave for SquareTrade would be worth it. That's why I never sign up for them. I figure if I manage to break my device, the repair or replacement fee is going to be either my incentive to be extra careful from then til the next device, or impetus to sell it and try something else.
chiadrum said:
despite me having a case and a screen protector on it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@chiadrum Mind letting us know which make/models of case and screen protector you had on it when this happened?
GospelNerd said:
Since the 'out-of-warranty' replacement is $199, unless you think you might go through more than one replacement, neither the extended warranty from Essential, or the price you gave for SquareTrade would be worth it. That's why I never sign up for them. I figure if I manage to break my device, the repair or replacement fee is going to be either my incentive to be extra careful from then til the next device, or impetus to sell it and try something else.
@chiadrum Mind letting us know which make/models of case and screen protector you had on it when this happened?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, $140+$75 = $215 which is a wash if you have one incident at $200.
It also covers any other issue for three years, so YMMV.
But even a bricked device would be covered.
One might argue that insurance is never worth it. you can only make the argument until the first time you drop and break your device, have a battery issue, brick or anything else.
I don't typically break or lose my phones, but there is a first time for everything.
YMMV
tech_head said:
Actually, $140+$75 = $215 which is a wash if you have one incident at $200.
It also covers any other issue for three years, so YMMV.
But even a bricked device would be covered.
One might argue that insurance is never worth it. you can only make the argument until the first time you drop and break your device, have a battery issue, brick or anything else.
I don't typically break or lose my phones, but there is a first time for everything.
YMMV
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have to pay the initial$140 either way, so it's $75 vs $200
Sent from my PH-1 using XDA Labs
---------- Post added at 01:03 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:02 PM ----------
avd said:
You have to pay the initial$140 either way, so it's $75 vs $200
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unless there is a deductable.
Sent from my PH-1 using XDA Labs
Do it
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk
GospelNerd said:
Since the 'out-of-warranty' replacement is $199, unless you think you might go through more than one replacement, neither the extended warranty from Essential, or the price you gave for SquareTrade would be worth it. That's why I never sign up for them. I figure if I manage to break my device, the repair or replacement fee is going to be either my incentive to be extra careful from then til the next device, or impetus to sell it and try something else.
@chiadrum Mind letting us know which make/models of case and screen protector you had on it when this happened?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Case was the Tudia without the notch for the 360 cam, so a full coverage case in other words. Fits pretty snug and covers the edges for sure. Screen protectors were mocolo. Screen protector can be placed on the phone even with the case on, that is how much screen is still exposed even with the protector. Also, the phone was not nearly as responsive to touch with that protector on. Really surprised that the case didn't do the trick with the corner covered. The corner is where the downfall began.
chiadrum said:
It almost seems as if the case had a negative effect which is also very odd.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you elaborate on this statement in the OP? Got any pics?
I got some of those edge-only adhesive screen protectors with the black borders, which leaves a tiny amount of screen glass exposed (barely 1mm on top [which allows for the speaker opening], and on bottom, and probably 0.5mm on either side). It appears that even with that gap, only the screen protector or the plastic around the screen could make initial contact on a fall. But, my Incipio clear case doesn't fit without catching the edges of the protector and audibly making them peel up (not necessarily visibly). So it's not wearing a case at the moment.
I have a Tudia Lula 2.0 case coming (the one with the 360 cam cutout), so your incident is a little concerning.
I don't care about the durability of a case or screen protector as long as they do their job when it matters, and that is to prevent the phone itself from sustaining damage. But it's for naught if they don't prevent, or worse even cause damage.
GospelNerd said:
Can you elaborate on this statement in the OP? Got any pics?
I got some of those edge-only adhesive screen protectors with the black borders, which leaves a tiny amount of screen glass exposed (barely 1mm on top [which allows for the speaker opening], and on bottom, and probably 0.5mm on either side). It appears that even with that gap, only the screen protector or the plastic around the screen could make initial contact on a fall. But, my Incipio clear case doesn't fit without catching the edges of the protector and audibly making them peel up (not necessarily visibly). So it's not wearing a case at the moment.
I have a Tudia Lula 2.0 case coming (the one with the 360 cam cutout), so your incident is a little concerning.
I don't care about the durability of a case or screen protector as long as they do their job when it matters, and that is to prevent the phone itself from sustaining damage. But it's for naught if they don't prevent, or worse even cause damage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think the Essential is any more or less fragile than other phones.
My daughter dropped her S9 in a case with a green protector.
$149 to replaced the device.
tech_head said:
I don't think the Essential is any more or less fragile than other phones.
My daughter dropped her S9 in a case with a green protector.
$149 to replaced the device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think phones with an edge to edge screen are way more susceptible to damage from a drop than phones with bezels or whatever you call them on all 4 sides. Unless you get a bulky case with raised edges that completely obliterates the beautiful design of the phone a case will probably provide little to no protection in a drop. The same is true of a screen protector because it provides zero protection for the edges of the glass.
jhs39 said:
I think phones with an edge to edge screen are way more susceptible to damage from a drop than phones with bezels or whatever you call them on all 4 sides. Unless you get a bulky case with raised edges that completely obliterates the beautiful design of the phone a case will probably provide little to no protection in a drop. The same is true of a screen protector because it provides zero protection for the edges of the glass.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Fair point. I always said screw design,give me a tank.I did pull the trigger on the replacement.Got it in a day.Signed up for OTA 8.1 and had it in a couple of hours.Now I just have to baby this thing.And this one is fully unlocked.My original was a Sprint variant and it was bugging out when I pulled the SIM and I could never have used it on vacation overseas.
GospelNerd said:
Can you elaborate on this statement in the OP? Got any pics?
I got some of those edge-only adhesive screen protectors with the black borders, which leaves a tiny amount of screen glass exposed (barely 1mm on top [which allows for the speaker opening], and on bottom, and probably 0.5mm on either side). It appears that even with that gap, only the screen protector or the plastic around the screen could make initial contact on a fall. But, my Incipio clear case doesn't fit without catching the edges of the protector and audibly making them peel up (not necessarily visibly). So it's not wearing a case at the moment.
I have a Tudia Lula 2.0 case coming (the one with the 360 cam cutout), so your incident is a little concerning.
I don't care about the durability of a case or screen protector as long as they do their job when it matters, and that is to prevent the phone itself from sustaining damage. But it's for naught if they don't prevent, or worse even cause damage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry just seeing this now.Cant find a pic but there was a gash on the corner and a crack across the top.Then one last drop and it was a spiderweb.
Hey Guys,
I am from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. I dropped my 3 month old Essential Phone on concrete floor face down and the display is completely smashed in one corner and has cracks all over the screen. Mine broke because I had neither the case nor any screen protector on the phone.
I am planning for the 199$ replacement but heard from them that its a refurbished device. Just want to know whether the refurbished replacement device is void and free of any scratches/ dents or any other physical defects on the body of the phone. And also the overall quality of the phone is good before I take this plunge.
Thanks,
Zulfiqar

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