iPhone screens are notoriously fragile and it’s very easy to crack them through everyday use. Some estimates say 25% of iPhone users end up cracking their screen within the first year of owning one. The problem is that Apple charges very high prices for screen repair. A cracked screen replacement can cost $199 to $329 if you don’t have AppleCare+ coverage, depending on your iPhone model. With AppleCare+, it’s $29 for screen repairs, but you have to pay upfront and are limited to 2 repairs per year. Given how expensive repairs can be, it’s important to learn ways to prevent cracked screens.
Get a Protective Case
One of the best ways to protect your iPhone screen is to get a sturdy and protective case. Cases add an extra layer of defense against cracks and scratches by surrounding your phone in durable materials like silicone, plastic, or leather. According to The New York Times, cases can protect against damage from drops up to 6 feet depending on the case material and construction.
Look for a case with raised edges around the front screen and camera bump on the back to prevent scratches when placed face down. Cases from reputable brands like OtterBox, Spigen, and LifeProof offer excellent protection. The OtterBox Defender provides top-notch protection with a rugged design, built-in screen protector, and port covers, though it does add some bulk. More streamlined options like the Spigen Ultra Hybrid provide great protection in a slimmer profile. Just make sure to choose a case designed specifically for your iPhone model for the best fit.
Use a Screen Protector
Screen protectors are thin sheets made of tempered glass, plastic, or other materials that adhere directly to your iPhone’s screen. They provide an extra layer of protection by shielding your screen from scratches, cracks, and shattering if you drop your phone. High quality screen protectors are nearly invisible once applied and maintain the original touch sensitivity of your screen.
According to The New York Times, the Spigen Glas.tR EZ Fit Tempered Glass Screen Protector is one of the best iPhone screen protectors in 2024. It uses tempered glass, precisely laser-cut for an exact fit on your iPhone model. Spigen screen protectors are known for maximum clarity and bubble-free installation.
Many Reddit users also recommend Peel screen protectors, which use a thin and flexible tempered glass that provides edge-to-edge protection. The Peel wraps smoothly around the curved edges of the latest iPhones for seamless coverage. Users praise the clarity and sensitivity of Peel protectors.
Be Careful Where You Place Your Phone
One of the easiest ways to crack your iPhone screen is by placing it in a pocket or bag with other hard or sharp objects. Keys, coins, tools, and other objects can cause scratches or cracks if they rub against or impact the phone screen (see [1]). Avoid putting your phone in a pocket or bag with these types of objects that could potentially damage the screen.
It’s also wise not to place your iPhone face down on any surface. Whether it’s a table, counter, or floor, dropping your phone face down greatly increases the chance of cracking the screen. According to [2], most iPhone screens crack from drops directly on the screen. So flip your phone over or stand it up instead of setting it face down to reduce the risk of damage.
Sources:
[1] https://www.rescuemydevice.com/blog/twenty-five-percent-of-iphone-users-have-a-cracked-screen/ [2] https://omoton.com/blogs/news/crazy-broken-smartphone-statisticsGet Insurance
Getting insurance for your iPhone can help protect it from damage or theft. There are a few main options for iPhone insurance:
AppleCare+ – This is Apple’s own iPhone insurance plan. It covers accidental damage and theft for iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and more. AppleCare+ costs $7.99/month for iPhone and provides unlimited repairs with a deductible of $29 for screen damage and $99 for other accidental damage. It also provides 24/7 tech support.
Carrier insurance plans – Most major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint offer monthly insurance plans starting around $10-15/month. These cover loss, theft, and accidental damage. You’ll pay a deductible of around $100-200 for most claims. Coverage and pricing varies between carriers.
Third party insurance – Companies like Securranty, Worth Ave Group, and SquareTrade also offer iPhone insurance plans, often at cheaper monthly rates than AppleCare+ or carriers. They provide similar coverage for loss, theft, and accidental damage. Deductibles are typically $50-100.
When choosing iPhone insurance, it’s worth comparing monthly costs, deductibles, and coverage between the different options. AppleCare+ is often the best value if buying a new iPhone. Third party plans can make sense for older iPhones. Read the fine print to understand exactly what each plan covers.
Learn Proper Phone Handling
One of the best ways to avoid cracking or breaking your iPhone screen is to learn how to properly handle your device. Apple provides some useful tips for holding and interacting with your iPhone in a safe manner that reduces the risk of accidental drops.
When holding your iPhone, be sure to keep a firm grip and hold it with your entire hand. Don’t just pinch it between your fingers, as this increases the chance of it slipping out of your hand. You’ll also want to avoid resting it on your fingers while using it, as it could easily slide off.
Additionally, Apple advises avoiding squeezing, tapping, or forcefully pressing on the screen or frame. This kind of pressure could lead to cracks over time. Be gentle whenever touching or interacting with your iPhone.
It’s also important to be mindful of how you set your iPhone down. Don’t toss or slide it onto surfaces. Gently place it down on stable, protected surfaces to prevent falls.
Following proper phone handling advice like this can go a long way in protecting your iPhone’s screen from cracks and damage (https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/important-handling-information-iphbbe12ba1/ios). With some care and mindfulness, you can avoid many potential drops and impacts.
Use a Lanyard or Wrist Strap
Using a lanyard or wrist strap is an easy and affordable way to get extra protection for your iPhone screen. A lanyard attaches to your phone case and allows you to wear the phone around your neck or wrist. This prevents drops if you accidentally lose your grip on the phone.
Lanyards are great for situations where you will be holding your phone a lot, like taking photos on vacation or using navigation apps while walking. The lanyard catches the phone if it slips out of your hand, saving you from cracked screens. Popular lanyard brands like RhinoShield and Amazon offer sturdy, adjustable lanyards in fun colors and patterns.
Wrist straps work similarly by attaching your phone to your wrist. This leaves your hands completely free while keeping your phone secure. Wrist straps are convenient for activities like working out or hiking where you need both hands. Look for a strong wrist strap that fits snugly.
The key benefit of lanyards and wrist straps is preventing accidental drops. They only cost $10-20 for a reliable option, much less than a screen replacement. Using a lanyard or strap provides peace of mind and extra protection for your iPhone screen.
Consider Getting a Flip Phone Cover
Flip phone covers are an alternative way to protect your iPhone screen. These covers have a front flap that flips over the screen when not in use. The flap acts as a shield against scratches, cracks, and other damage.
Flip covers completely protect the screen when closed. The flap covers the entire front of the phone, unlike screen protectors that only cover the glass. This provides protection for the bezel and edges as well.
Most flip covers have a soft inner lining that prevents scratching when closed. Some even have magnets or ridges to keep the flap securely in place over the screen. This ensures maximum coverage when not using your phone.
Leather and faux leather are common materials for flip covers that give a stylish look while protecting your iPhone. Many flip covers also have card slots for storing ID or credit cards with your phone.
According to Best Buy, flip covers from brands like Otterbox provide durable protection from drops and bumps. Consider getting a flip cover if you want an attractive case that fully protects the screen and body.
Use a Pop Socket
One way to help prevent dropping and damaging your iPhone is to use a Pop Socket (https://www.popsockets.com/). Pop Sockets are expandable grips and stands that attach to the back of phones and tablets. When collapsed, they act as grips that make your device easier to hold onto. When expanded, they can act as stands to prop up your device.
Pop Sockets come in various styles, shapes, and sizes. You can find ones that stick directly to your iPhone or ones that are built into cases. Pop Sockets grip accessory makes your iPhone easier to hold onto, reducing the chance of accidental drops. Because you have an expanded grip, you are less likely to lose your grasp on the device (https://www.popsockets.com/en-us/cases/iphone-15).
Many Pop Socket accessories also allow you to prop up your phone for hands-free viewing or video chats. By keeping your device propped on a table, you avoid having to hold it and risk drops. Overall, Pop Sockets are an affordable and stylish way to improve your iPhone’s grip and stand abilities, helping protect it from cracks and damage.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many easy ways to protect your iPhone screen. The most effective method is using a high quality case and screen protector combination. This will prevent most scratches, cracks and shattering. However, you should also be mindful of where you place your phone to avoid it falling onto hard surfaces.
Getting phone insurance is another great option, as it covers repair or replacement costs if damage does occur. Additionally, learning proper phone handling techniques can go a long way. Avoid dropping your phone, tossing it on surfaces, or placing it in precarious positions.
For ultimate protection, accessories like lanyards, wrist straps, flip covers and pop sockets are affordable extras to consider. With all of these tips in mind, you can protect your expensive iPhone investment and extend its life significantly.
