Database Users

G2 upgrade

HEy guys I've owned my G2 since Nov. of 2010 and it has the battle scars to show it. My battery door looks like CRAP. OEM battery still doesn't last me long and I have a small blemish on the top of the phone. Not to mention my hinge is loose as hell. So I devised a plan. I am going to "upgrade" my G2. Hinge and all. In total it has cost me $58.98 for the whole process.
- $2.45 for Screen protector (anti-glare / anti finger-print) 3 pack
- $29.99 OEM HTC Evo Shift 4G Battery (1500MAh)
- $16.00 OEM Battery Door Cover
- $2.84 Premium Hard Rubberized case (Black)
- $5.78 Springs for the Hinge
- $1.92 Car Charger. (Yeah I know)
But all of this from Amazon excluding the springs. I will post a link for those later when I locate it. But for $58.98 for a "overhaul" that doesn't seem too bad? I decided to buy this whole thing at one time so I know it may take a few weeks for the parts the come but hey! Doesn't hurt to make my phone look brand new?
Just wanted to share this info for those who may have been interested in doing specific things to their phone and money is a issue.

Ive heard that the touch screen for the G2 is Gorilla Glass, so since there is no scratches on it yet, there shouldnt be anytime soon (as long as you take care of it). I done the whole screen protector thing, and after awhile, it takes away from the beauty of the phone. i know - it's my opinion.
I have done the hinge spring replacement, which works EXCELLENT! The best damn thing i did for my G2! it will take you a full afternoon to do-it yourself, but it's SOOOO worth it.
I also replaced my stock battery with a Mugen Power 1800mAh Extended Battery. This is such a worthy investment. It gave me another 5 hours to my phone. I'm a HEAVY user (GPS, Navigation, games, internet, texting, email). I purchased the battery from the source company instead of depending on a third party company.

My screen is good but it seems to be impossible to keep people away from my phone. I am getting mine form HTC. So it is worth it to do the Hinge + Spring mod?

creepinm3 said:
My screen is good but it seems to be impossible to keep people away from my phone. I am getting mine form HTC. So it is worth it to do the Hinge + Spring mod?
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Yep! Well worth it! Just follow the tutorial HERE. It might be scary, but after completion. I can now pickup my phone by the screen alone, and it will not open. I can also pick the phone up from the back, and even shake it, and it still wont open. It must have been a design flaw or something, but my phone when new had a very week spring.
If its impossible to keep people away from you phone, just keep a few extra polishing cloths around to get rid of all the fingerprints. I personally just dont like screen protectors in general.. i think they take away from the aesthetics of the phone. I had a Vibrant before I upgraded to a G2, and from the first day, I put on a screen protector to prevent scratches. Well, after awhile the screen protector on the phone started to look like CRAP. I mean WHY?.. i asked myself WHY? I figured there were a team of highly paid engineers which selected the type of screen for our phones that wont scratch under normal to heavy use.. Of course there is always the exceptions, like if you work in a job with a lot of sand around. Sand is the enemy to our little touch screens, even Gorilla Glass can't hold up to sand. Anyway, please excuse my rant - it is my opinion.

Its greatly appreciated. I shall keep that in mind. I eventually take them off after about a month.
Sent from my T-Mobile G2 using XDA Premium App

lawalty said:
If its impossible to keep people away from you phone, just keep a few extra polishing cloths around to get rid of all the fingerprints. I personally just dont like screen protectors in general.. i think they take away from the aesthetics of the phone. I had a Vibrant before I upgraded to a G2, and from the first day, I put on a screen protector to prevent scratches. Well, after awhile the screen protector on the phone started to look like CRAP. I mean WHY?.. i asked myself WHY? I figured there were a team of highly paid engineers which selected the type of screen for our phones that wont scratch under normal to heavy use.. Of course there is always the exceptions, like if you work in a job with a lot of sand around. Sand is the enemy to our little touch screens, even Gorilla Glass can't hold up to sand. Anyway, please excuse my rant - it is my opinion.
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Sounds like your experience was with a cheap screen protector. I use Bodyguardz, and you can't tell its there, by look or feel. Its been in place for 6 months now, and no visible scratches, and very fingerprint resistant. But cheap protectors (3 pack for $2.45 the OP mention probably apply) do scratch easily and attract fingerprints and smudges like crazy. The included protector with my old AT&T (Tilt Pro 2) lasted about a month and looked like crap, like you said.
Of course, its completely a matter of personal preference. But some people on here have had scratches from what they claim is normal use. For me, I'd rather put on a protector (a good quality one, that doesn't affect the look or feel of the phone), rather then get a scratch and wish you had used a protector.

There is a screen protector that's worth $21 at BestBuy called the Zagg Shield. Is that even worth the price? Looks flimsy
Sent from my T-Mobile G2 using XDA Premium App

redpoint73 said:
Sounds like your experience was with a cheap screen protector. I use Bodyguardz, and you can't tell its there, by look or feel. Its been in place for 6 months now, and no visible scratches, and very fingerprint resistant. But cheap protectors (3 pack for $2.45 the OP mention probably apply) do scratch easily and attract fingerprints and smudges like crazy. The included protector with my old AT&T (Tilt Pro 2) lasted about a month and looked like crap, like you said.
Of course, its completely a matter of personal preference. But some people on here have had scratches from what they claim is normal use. For me, I'd rather put on a protector (a good quality one, that doesn't affect the look or feel of the phone), rather then get a scratch and wish you had used a protector.
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I believe its Bodyguardz. Its stored under my amazing cart. I will have to check when I get home.
Sent from my T-Mobile G2 using XDA Premium App

creepinm3 said:
I believe its Bodyguardz. Its stored under my amazing cart. I will have to check when I get home.
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I doubt it. Bodyguardz (dry apply, screen only type - not full body) goes 2 for $15 plus shipping. So unless you found some smoking deal, it seems unlikely they are going 3 for $2.45.
http://www.bodyguardz.com/t-mobile-g2-dry-apply-cases-screen-protectors-covers-shields-skins-films.html
If it is in fact Bodyguardz, let me know where you found that deal!

This whole post comes from Amazon. Its the only place I feel you can get a good deal on accessories to be honest or OEM
Sent from my T-Mobile G2 using XDA Premium App

creepinm3 said:
There is a screen protector that's worth $21 at BestBuy called the Zagg Shield. Is that even worth the price? Looks flimsy
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If you look around the Accessories subforum, you will find good things said about Zagg. While I haven't tried Zagg myself, I think they use a very similar material to Bodyguardz, if I'm not mistaken. The material of Bodyguardz is thin and very pliable/flexible, but still offers great protection.
But $21 is a bit pricey to me for just the screen protector, and only one of them.

I've got a zagg on my vibrant, put one on my wife's g2, one on the way for my son's LG Optimus. Best screen protector ever. Lifetime warranty, install on The Wife's G2 took 3 minutes (Thank God I got it right the first time!), neither of us notice they're there. IMO, worth $20.

jRi0T68 said:
I've got a zagg on my vibrant, put one on my wife's g2, one on the way for my son's LG Optimus. Best screen protector ever. Lifetime warranty, install on The Wife's G2 took 3 minutes (Thank God I got it right the first time!), neither of us notice they're there. IMO, worth $20.
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Hmm, I shall see about one of these.
-Kiyo

I have no idea why a screen protecter is needed for a G2? Especially if one uses any kind of protector casing. I have never used a screen protector and my phone has fallen off a moving car, dropped on floor a few times, used on the beach numerous times,and in out of my pockets. Not one scratch to my screen. Screen protector is a waste of money.
Sent from my HTC Vision using XDA App

LikeaG2root said:
I have no idea why a screen protecter is needed for a G2? Especially if one uses any kind of protector casing. I have never used a screen protector and my phone has fallen off a moving car, dropped on floor a few times, used on the beach numerous times,and in out of my pockets. Not one scratch to my screen. Screen protector is a waste of money.
Sent from my HTC Vision using XDA App
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Here here! Totally agree!
Sent from my T-Mobile G2 using XDA Premium App

I agree with redpoint on this one. Although you may feel your screen is indestructible at this point, it really isn't. Just one scratch from a random thing and you'll be wishing you had a screen protector. Better safe than sorry, I'll pay that 15 bucks so I never get a scratch that will annoy me the rest of the phone's life.
I have a high quality screen protector on my Tilt2 (can't remember if it's Zagg or Bodyguardz). Some say that these nicer ones have a rubbery tacky feel about them and take away from the slickness of the screen. I must agree with that, the one I have is a bit rubbery. Most people on these forums hold the Clarivue protectors highly though. They say they have no rubbery feel and take nothing from the screen. They have many different variations of the protectors too.
http://www.clarivue.com/htc-g2tmobile-screen-protector.html

Knife vs G2 glass screen...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kwd3v4cgVc&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Sent from my HTC Vision(G2) using meXdroidmod V3

It is just hard to scratch the G2 glass but definitely not impossible. My first G2 somehow managed to have two fine scratches on the screen, so I knew I wanted a screen protector for my second G2. I used a Crystal Clear one before and liked it until I felt a matte finished anti-glare one. I started trashing the crystal clear one that I had on, saying that it would attract too much fingerprint and face oil. I love the anti-glare screen protector and I love the way it feels. It does take away from the screen a little but not that much.
IMO, a full rehaul of your phone could also consist of a new housing. I just took a look on eBay and the price is insane! So maybe just throwing on a case so you can forget about any aesthetic flaws that you phone may have.
But I definitely think you should do the spring/hinge fix. I think that in itself will have you satisfied with your phone! Good luck!

LikeaG2root said:
Knife vs G2 glass screen...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kwd3v4cgVc&feature=youtube_gdata_player
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While fun for shock value, and possibly a decent simulation of having the phone in your pocket with your keys, there are a great many things that are harder than steel on Moh's scale, that your phone might come into contact with. Plus, there are many common types of glass treatments and coatings that resist scratches from a knife, so again, the demonstration is really not all that meaningful.

slapshot30 said:
Although you may feel your screen is indestructible at this point, it really isn't. Just one scratch from a random thing and you'll be wishing you had a screen protector.
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Exactly. Many of these same things were being said back when I was on my old HTC Kaiser. People said it did just fine without a screen protector. I took my protector off, and it did seem to do fine for a few months. But over time, I noticed fine scratches developing, and one day got a huge gouge. I really wished I had stuck with a protector. That wasn't Gorilla Glass, but it seems that some people are having similar experiences on the G2 regardless.
slapshot30 said:
I have a high quality screen protector on my Tilt2 (can't remember if it's Zagg or Bodyguardz). Some say that these nicer ones have a rubbery tacky feel about them and take away from the slickness of the screen. I must agree with that, the one I have is a bit rubbery.
Click to expand...
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My Bodyguardz protector did seem to have a slightly tacky feel at first. Really only noticeable when trying to swipe across the screen quickly (mostly while playing games). But this actually seemed to go away after a couple weeks for some reason, and it feels nice and smooth to me now.
To me, the look and feel of a good protector is not perceptible (versus no protector), and its worth using one. But I can certainly understand if somebody that is more perceptive or picky than me, may prefer to go without.

Case vs NoCase

I was so anxious about dropping\scratching my phone that I bought this huge case from amazon and now I've realized....Using a case just ****ing ruins this phone, it literally becomes a working brick (literally) also its well known that its probably the thinnest phone around, i mean forget the case yo. Anyone else agree?

http://www.amazon.com/Flip-Cover-EF...949365&sr=1-6&keywords=Samsung+Galaxy+S3+Case
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda premium

I agree.
I have had an Evo, and an Evo 3D previously. Both of which I never used a cover/case on.
Then I got a small clip on case for my GSIII, but really dislike the bulkiness that it adds to the phone. I keep toying around with it, taking the case off, then putting it back on. I really am thinking of going caseless. But I do need to find a good screen protector. If I decided to do that.

I'm still debating, every time I buy cases I end up taking it off with in a few days...I already got a screen protector and I think that's all I need.
Sent from my SPH-L710 using xda app-developers app

@Cuhrazy
That Flip case, doesn't look like it'll protect anything if the phone was dropped.

I need a kickstand, need it. So I have a Case-Mate Pop!. It does make it brick-like when I have the phone in it.

I really really want a case cuz I'm scared to drop it. And my hands get oily and it starts slipping lmao. But then again, a case will cover up its sexiness
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2

You don't have to get a giant otterbox, I have a tpu case and I think the little extra size to the phone is perfect and you get a little more protection from dropping.

Halmo said:
You don't have to get a giant otterbox, I have a tpu case and I think the little extra size to the phone is perfect and you get a little more protection from dropping.
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Yeah TPU cases are good. Not really big but do give some protection. I'm looking at one of these: www.cruzerlite.com
Should be some Youtube reviews also.

Don't buy the white d30 open button case, gets dirty crazy fast, and cleaning it removes the white finish
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2

I ended up buying one even though I don't like em because the phone seems a bit slippery to me and want to avoid dropping it.
Either way, the tpu case I bought isn't that bulky so I'm ok with it.
Powered by the SGSIII

I didn't want a case
But then I got the phone and now i'm afraid i'm going to drop it so I bought a slim TPU case and a slim TPU bumper. I may rock it without a case every now and then because this phone feels and looks great.

no case brah.

i got a free one to protect it until i get one of these
shopandroid.com/samsung-galaxy-s-iii-skin-cases-top10.htm

This is my solution to the whole thing. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1645709 It focuses more on the screen protection than the case itself, so I'll sum it up here too.
I have found XO skin to be the best pick of wet install protection. Their skins cover any device so perfectly edge to edge that they virtually disappear. Other companies like ZAGG say they have "features" like the "orange peel effect", and that due to the fact that the Galaxy Nexus has a curved screen the shield needs to be smaller to accommodate this and there's nothing they can do. It's bull. They look like crap and it's their way of trying to hide that. XO has a full body protection option that when installed properly offers complete protection from every day nicks dings and short distance fumbles (all you can ask for from a case) that you almost forget is there. And when you do remember you show it off to people, instead of shoving your ZAGG covered phone back in your pocket in embarrassment. It still has a slight rubbery feel under hot heavy use (no innuendo intended), so I put a brand new new cheepo throw away plastic screen protector over it every couple of weeks to solve all my issues. (trust me when I say the XO Skin is completely unnoticeable underneath it. It does NOT look like you have two screen protectors on. Many people didn't believe me) I have been case free for 2 months without a care in the world about it, and my phone still looks wonderful.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda app-developers app

I need a case. My hands are small so when I try to reach with my thumb across the screen, the base of my thumb will usually barely touch the screen causing chaos with the touchscreen. Case with raised sides that protect the screen some when dropped keep my thumb from hitting the touchscreen on the sides.

I picked up a otterbox commuter a few days ago it's was a pain to get the phone in and is a bit big but I am happy with the case and screen protector as accidents happen and it's better to protect the phone then pay $600 to replace it.

Sawdizzle said:
@Cuhrazy
That Flip case, doesn't look like it'll protect anything if the phone was dropped.
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Click to collapse
Thats the point. It replaces the battery cover and adds protection to the screen. Sure it prolly wouldn't be that great for the back but you would have an extra back cover.

Robert Hodgson said:
I picked up a otterbox commuter a few days ago it's was a pain to get the phone in and is a bit big but I am happy with the case and screen protector as accidents happen and it's better to protect the phone then pay $600 to replace it.
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Does yours come with a built in screen protector? I wanna get one but I hate the screen protecter.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2

find a good case, adn yo're G2G. I know my POP! isn't the thinnest, but I already dropped it onto tile from about 3 feet today. i'm not taking any chances. lol

[Q] Is s4screen too delicate?

All, I have been waiting to get an S4 for a while now, However it scares me to put $700 on a device which can possibly break easily & costs another $300 to fix with same risk. I have a buy/no buy decision to make for me and a few friends around me. Can we get the build of this verified & technically explained?
People say the very thin bazel transfers shock/twist tension for the digitizer to disintegrate/crack so easily.
Please advise!

For what it's worth, I've dropped mine a couple of times accidentally and I've done no damage to the screen.
I think if you handle it carefully and not treat it like a cheap and easily replaceable device you shouldn't have any worries. I do my best to take care of my phones and I've never damaged one (yet...).

I'm caseless no issues so far even I don't wear any screen protector. No scratches at all, really magic the oleophobic layer, no fingerprints!.
I recommend a bumper or similar, regarding to the really easily to scratch back cover, I know it's plastic, but $500d one!
The rest is just fine!
:thumbup:
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda premium

It really is how well you take care of your phone, obviously placing a phone in tight jeans pocket and squatting can break your phone. Also dropping it without a case can lead to the same. While it does appear that there have been several people posting bezel cracks and digitizer problems. There are alot more of us that don't have any problems. So really buying it is your decision and how you take care of it is up to you also so YMMV......

You could buy a case or a screen protector. ..
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda app-developers app

Weak screen? Yeah, it's probably weaker than most. Especially considering that there's more operating surface area on the glass and less width on the bezel side. A corner drop is instant death without a box to cover it. Still though, its hard to dislike this phone. Go back to an S2 ... it feels way too different now.

sreekanth_vvs said:
All, I have been waiting to get an S4 for a while now, However it scares me to put $700 on a device which can possibly break easily & costs another $300 to fix with same risk. I have a buy/no buy decision to make for me and a few friends around me. Can we get the build of this verified & technically explained?
People say the very thin bazel transfers shock/twist tension for the digitizer to disintegrate/crack so easily.
Please advise!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have an Otterbox Defender, and no screen protector. For me, it's a perfect combination of protection and usability.
I do have big hands though... and as much as the GS4 is undoubtedly "prettier" naked, I actually prefer the extra "holdability" of the case.
I've dropped it lightly a few times and do I carry my phone in a separate pocket from all my other junk, but so far, absolutely no visible scratches.
Everyone's use case and preferences are different, but this setup has worked well for me so far.

I've dropped it several times. Once onto a brick floor when sitting on a chair, and once it slipped out of my pocket onto asphalt when I opened my car door. Today it slipped out of my hand onto hardwood from 4 feet or so. Every time I pretty much crapped my pants at the thought of it cracking but so far it's proven to be tough.
Had my Infuse for 2+ years caseless with no problem, so I have confidence in this phone especially seeing as how I am sure Samsung figured out how to improve the design after those problems with the S III cracking.
My mom wanted a case for hers so we got the Incipio DualPro after getting one for my dad's Xperia and its a great case. Nice feel and doesn't add too much thickness while providing great protection.
After handling all the cases at the AT&T store the Incipio was by far the best they sell there at least.
Spigen cases and GLAS.t screen protectors are also highly recommended.
Buy the phone, its awesome.

This phone so far is pretty durable from my experience. The first week I had it in a case with no screen protector. Ended up getting a small scratch on the screen so I now use one. Pretty much I haven't dropped the phone yet but as long as you take care of it you should be good. I totally recommend it, this phone is amazing!
Sent from my SGH-I337 using xda app-developers app

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My gf gas dropped hers 3 times on concrete and it has survived with just some scuffs to the bezel..I **** my pants every time!
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda app-developers app

Who's going naked? :D

Just got my S8+ and it will never see a case or screen protector. I can't ruin the feel of my phone like that. The way it was designed is so you could enjoy it for what it is surely. Plus it's big enough as it is.
Who else is going naked?

Well i personally never use screenprotectors so i won't be using one on my s8+ too.
When it comes to cases and what not... i prefer not to use it and mostly dont, but my new job require to store my phone in a small closet (space just for the phone) that ahs this hard unfriendly to glass bottom, so i have started to put on case just for that and take it off when i leave work and go home...
I just love the ''naked'' phone feeling in hand.
I did order a dbrand skin for my back so ima gonna try that since it is supposed to be almost like a naked phone but still protected back from scratches.

You guys are crazy, one scratch and it's an eye sore for me. Got my s8+ in a spigen neo hybrid since day 1 and got screen protector coming today.

tzmx said:
Well i personally never use screenprotectors so i won't be using one on my s8+ too.
When it comes to cases and what not... i prefer not to use it and mostly dont, but my new job require to store my phone in a small closet (space just for the phone) that ahs this hard unfriendly to glass bottom, so i have started to put on case just for that and take it off when i leave work and go home...
I just love the ''naked'' phone feeling in hand.
I did order a dbrand skin for my back so ima gonna try that since it is supposed to be almost like a naked phone but still protected back from scratches.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Indeed. It feels great in the hand. I do know if I drop it I will probably cry. Lol.
Dropped my S7 Edge on the pavement for the first time in more than a year the other day and nearly had a stroke. Still, no case!

I was strongly opposed to cases as i want to enjoy the design. I feel that especially with the S8+ you loose the design but the feel in hand when you fire on a case.
However you need to set the phone down & usually its on a hard surface (Table, Desk etc) so in this instance a case gives you that piece of mind. I do & will go naked on occasion as I'm one that appreciates the design & to never ever take your phone out then you be craaazy......as its a great design and your only limiting your joy.....?
Sent from my SM-G955F using XDA-Developers Legacy app

The real question is who's going skinny dipping?

what about https://www.ultimateshield.co.uk/co...ung-galaxy-s8-invisible-film-screen-protector

prfraczek said:
what about https://www.ultimateshield.co.uk/co...ung-galaxy-s8-invisible-film-screen-protector
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Click to collapse
I've had 3 of the Ultimate Shield protectors on my S7 Edge, and they always start peeling after a while. Plus it gives the phone a rubbery feel and has an orange peel effect which detracts from the gorgeous display.
Too much faffing about so I won't bother. Plus you have to be really careless to scratch the gorilla glass 5.

At the risk of creating yet another case/non case thread (see under accessories thread) Samsung do a great slim / clear back (rather than case) which still exposes its glorious looks whilst providing some protection from the odd spill....its a slippy beast and one fall without protection could mangle it.

Biggenz said:
Just got my S8+ and it will never see a case or screen protector. I can't ruin the feel of my phone like that. The way it was designed is so you could enjoy it for what it is surely. Plus it's big enough as it is.
Who else is going naked?
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Click to collapse
I always go naked. Have never used a phone case of any kind and never will.

If I worked in an office or some indoor job I would probably go screen protector only. But I work Construction and if I go naked the phone would be destroyed in a day lol

I never use cases or screen protectors. They completely ruin the look and feel of the phone.
I buy a new flagship every year, and haven't used either for the last 8 or 10 years.

Went naked for a day couldn't risk it, and put a wet screen protector. Scratches and microscratches are annoying. If they figured out a way in the future to polish the screens for sure using something for micros-cratches!

dBrand dragon skin on back panel so I can put it down without any cloth or tissue underneath
Sent from my Galaxy S8+ using XDA Labs

It's cool till the first time you drop your phone. Then you've got the rest of the time you have payments on it to regret not blowing 12 bucks on a slim clear TPU case. But hey if you like to live on the edge!

Ice dropped a phone only once, and it didn't sustain damage (Nexus 6P). That said, I just can't bear the thought of it happening and my phone looking like this :
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=3593136
Sent from my LG-H990 using Tapatalk

i never got a new phone and walk out the store without a case, typically an otterbox, but since this time its delivered to my home i pre ordered cases (yes with an s) as well just to be sure.
when i finally got the phone i really really want to just go naked
but i'm too scared to mess it up

Been running no case no screen protector since Day 1 (April 21)

Will go with some slim fit case. This phone is very slippy in hand.

Good luck with that:
https://youtu.be/AkoZM83X_i4

$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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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?
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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@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?
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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
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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
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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?
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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