[Q] Question About Fascinate Screen - Fascinate General

Hi there, Fascinate people!
I have a Captivate on AT&T (a.k.a. the my-signal-runs-away-from-buildings carrier). One of my absolute favorite features of my phone--a feature I had believed was common to all Galaxy S models--is the seemingly indestructible Gorilla Glass screen. I've carried this phone naked in my pocket for months now and the screen is still perfect!
A friend of mine liked my Captivate so much that she purchased a Fascinate as her very first smartphone. She put a screen protector and a case on it (two safety mechanisms I've blatantly rejected in favor of the uberslim Captivate), but not two days after purchasing the phone, she had scratch marks in the glass, below the screen protector in the soft button area. Granted, she has probably been carrying the device in her purse, but nonetheless I was blown away by this! I inspected it further today, and it actually looks like the scratching may be below the surface of the glass.
So my question is this: wtf? Is the Fascinate screen wimpier than the rest of the Galaxy S line? Is it possible that dust entered the phone and scratched the surface below the glass surface? Is this the sort of thing she might get an exchange for? Has anybody else experienced this, especially so quickly after purchasing?
Thanks for all of your help!

Ask the someone who knows... Ask samsung... I have no idea.
This just sounds like you are blaming us for your friend's woes. I feel like giving you the benefit of the doubt for now.
Anyways, ask them or VZW.
I haven't had any issues that you mention.

I've dropped my phone and had it unprotected since I bought it and it still looks brand new. No idea what's up with your friends phone.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using XDA App

The fascinate does have gorilla glass. It holds up to a lot of abuse: you can't scratch out with keys, etc.
I can't speak to scratches below the screen, never seen anything like that.
Gorilla glass can be scratched (especially by any form of sand, which is more common than you might expect), and it can shatter. This is discussed in the accessories thread.
You also have a few options if you want to keep your phone thin. Look into steinheil, real look etc.screen protectors, also discussed in accessories.
Sorry to hear about your friend's screen. Tender care and a soft clean pocket will get you pretty far, but the back cover especially will scratch up on you no matter how careful you are. Fortunately the back is cheap to replace.
Swyped w/ XDA App. When in doubt, mumble.

RacerXFD said:
This just sounds like you are blaming us for your friend's woes. I feel like giving you the benefit of the doubt for now.
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I'm not sure how that would sound like blame, but I was really just asking if anybody had any similar experiences
mikey6p said:
I've dropped my phone and had it unprotected since I bought it and it still looks brand new. No idea what's up with your friends phone.
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Likewise - that's what made me question it.
soba49 said:
The fascinate does have gorilla glass. It holds up to a lot of abuse: you can't scratch out with keys, etc.
I can't speak to scratches below the screen, never seen anything like that.
Gorilla glass can be scratched (especially by any form of sand, which is more common than you might expect), and it can shatter. This is discussed in the accessories thread.
You also have a few options if you want to keep your phone thin. Look into steinheil, real look etc.screen protectors, also discussed in accessories.
Sorry to hear about your friend's screen. Tender care and a soft clean pocket will get you pretty far, but the back cover especially will scratch up on you no matter how careful you are. Fortunately the back is cheap to replace.
Swyped w/ XDA App. When in doubt, mumble.
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Right! This was the video demonstration I'd seen, so I was very confused! Sand makes perfect sense! She was near a beach for a few days immediately after getting the phone. Thanks!!

wphilly said:
I'm not sure how that would sound like blame, but I was really just asking if anybody had any similar experiences
Likewise - that's what made me question it.
Right! This was the video demonstration I'd seen, so I was very confused! Sand makes perfect sense! She was near a beach for a few days immediately after getting the phone. Thanks!!
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Jewelry is a common scratcher too.
I have a screen protector on my phone, just in case... its an invisible shield, so it covers the whole screen. I passed on the VZW ones because I figured it just covered only the screen, but the invisible shields do have an orange peel kinda look to them.

I have been carrying my fascinate since launch unprotected in my pocket, and my screen is still flawless! I just bought a protector from a local uscc store for the mesmerize that covers the whole screen yesterday! 3 in a pack for $14.95, they fit well (except for maybe 16th of an in. at the edges) and they cover the whole screen!

2 small scratches and 1 small scuff mark on my screen and i have been VERY careful with this phone. not that impressed with the glass. took me weeks to scratch the screen on my TP carrying it the same way i carry the SF. i need to pick up a protector just to prevent any more marks.

Related

Word to the wise(scratch subject)

Well..like everything else I own...it was bound to get some imperfection within a short amount of time in possession. But lemme make myself clearer...I dropped my phone on the pavement and therefore I now have a scratched screen. While we all know metal can't scratch glass..pavement and diamond rings apparently still apply. But this isn't to simply warn all of you of the obvious fact that screen protectors are very handy on any device, but its to inform that no method found on he internet will cure scratches on the glass. From toothpaste to Brasso(which makes it worse actually). Nothing works..and therefore you are doomed to the scratches! Not sure what half he people on the internet are raving about on half the remedies for scratches in glass, but that's all it is, is hype. So learn from me either live with the scratches, buy protectors while you can...or end up forking over the money for a new screen eventually.
Bummer...not even sure if a screen protector would have survived concrete. But a good case would have...
Metal can't scratch glass? Is this something new for 2010.
indiearmy said:
Metal can't scratch glass? Is this something new for 2010.
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Sorry lol..Was typing it on my phone while watching Reno 911...I meant to say "metal can't scratch gorilla glass as easily".
Otherwise...I guess I'll try and wait out the arrival of HTC bravo or Supersonic...if either come to the US with a sim card carrier, and just give this nexus one to my GF. She claims I'm just being paranoid over something small so I guess she won't mind taking over ownership should a better phone come out.
fykick said:
Sorry lol..Was typing it on my phone while watching Reno 911...I meant to say "metal can't scratch gorilla glass as easily".
Otherwise...I guess I'll try and wait out the arrival of HTC bravo or Supersonic...if either come to the US with a sim card carrier, and just give this nexus one to my GF. She claims I'm just being paranoid over something small so I guess she won't mind taking over ownership should a better phone come out.
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Your completely giving up on the phone because a simple scratch on the screen, and instead you will wait for the Bravo a phone uglier than the concept model? This scratch must be very, very, bothersome.
I do get heavily irritated over small things such as this, but I would never buy an entire new phone over it. If its noticeable when the phone is on, then maybe yea..
fykick said:
Well..like everything else I own...it was bound to get some imperfection within a short amount of time in possession. But lemme make myself clearer...I dropped my phone on the pavement and therefore I now have a scratched screen. While we all know metal can't scratch glass..pavement and diamond rings apparently still apply. But this isn't to simply warn all of you of the obvious fact that screen protectors are very handy on any device, but its to inform that no method found on he internet will cure scratches on the glass. From toothpaste to Brasso(which makes it worse actually). Nothing works..and therefore you are doomed to the scratches! Not sure what half he people on the internet are raving about on half the remedies for scratches in glass, but that's all it is, is hype. So learn from me either live with the scratches, buy protectors while you can...or end up forking over the money for a new screen eventually.
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Have you priced out a new screen, by any chance?
All I keep reading is currently a repair for things like screens run 250 from HTC and maybe 75 to 150 from some place in Texas.
As for giving up on the nexus, I didn't mean give up on the nexus...just give it away when they come out with something newer should the specs not be lacking in the hardware section. The all black of the bravo, or even red/black of the supersonic are more my style anyways. But if their specs are worse, ill stick with the nexus.
Luckily I keep the stock case on...
because it seems I forget it is in my lap and I get out of the car, and so far I've dropped it about 5 times on the pavement and it is still beautiful!
Haha..you're totally right the stock case was doing me a great justice but I had gotten out of the car texting and sat my case down in the passenger seat and on the way back and at the edge of the pavement and grass it fell out of my hand lol ... and skipped around a a bit and resulted in one scratch/etch you can see while the phone is on and about 3 more while its off. Even the edges of whatever material the phone is made of has an etch in it. All these are very small seperately but all together are very distracting. I hope eventually I can get the screen repaired for under a hundred. Then I'd buy a protector and be happy with my nexus. But right now the prices to repair them are more than I originally paid for the phone. An I'd rather not pay more than a hundred for screen repair.
galaxys said:
Bummer...not even sure if a screen protector would have survived concrete. But a good case would have...
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The right screen protector, such as the invisibleSHIELD or Clear Protector, would have prevented this.. I only say this cuz of personal experience..
Ssantos6981 said:
because it seems I forget it is in my lap and I get out of the car, and so far I've dropped it about 5 times on the pavement and it is still beautiful!
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Christ... are you kidding?!
Mine goes in the passenger seat with a seatbelt firmly on and airbags fully deployed.
The wife gets shoved in the glove box
Some watch repairers have buffing machines to take scratches out of glass, you could try to find one of them.
I didn't even put the battery in my Nexus One until after I had put an Invisibleshield on it.
i highly recommend investing in a full phone protector.. i paid $35 and they wrapped my phone entirely in plastic screen protector material. Lifetime warranty on the stuff too.
If it ever gets scratched just bring it back and they replace it free.

OK. How fragile is the screen, really?

Hello everyone.
I got my HD2 a couple of weeks ago and as usual with new toys, am still taking some extra care with it. I had a Touch HD before that withstood quite a few bumps and two small drops. I saw people carying iPhones in pants pockets, back and front. Given that HD2 screen is significantly larger, how fragile is it, really? I usually carry my phones in jacket pocket, screen towards the body, without any case or sleeve. Do I need to take so much care for it or is it actually more resilient than it seems? Yes, I've seen the threads with broken screens. Anything can break, given enough force.
Any serious feedback is welcomed. Thanks.
Cheers, R
Well I have had mine since it was released in the UK and have had it in my right hand side front pocket in my jeans/trousers etc, sat on floors etc and all sorts and nothing has ever happened to it at all. Its a pretty tough screen I think, as long as when its in you pocket its not at an odd angle, I cant see any problems keeping it in there. I certainly have no problems.
Scratch test
There is a YouTube video of a scratch test of the screen of an HD2, its in foreign but gives a good idea of its screen tolerances (those of a nervous disposition may wish to look away towards the end)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NcEaehKWr2s
Hmm I can only speak for myself and my HD2... but my screen has 2 (really small) scratches..
I think these are from a keychain or maybe a lighter in my pocket. I don't really know where the came from - but not from dropping it.
I would recommend to use a (thin - not that thick vikuti) foil to protect it against scratches.
--> Question: What would you recomment regarding a foil to cover the screen? I bought 1 Vikuti foil and really disliked it - it is sooo thick
Edit: I think the knife in the video would be able to scratch the screen... only a matter of right angle an pressure
I dropped mine on new years eve - drunk and the only thing i noticed the following day was that i had lost the backplate lol
Someone on here very kindly gave me a replacement.
Other than that - no scratches so far
Had mine three weeks, using front trouser pocket though I am very conscious of checking the pocket for keys etc first.
I have a full body invisibleSHIELD skin, and i'm extremely happy with it.
I've knocked it a few times on the edge of tables and chairs, once on the metal hand grip on a bus seat, and theres not a mark on it anywhere.
I have a screen protector that covers the entire screen, and carry the phone in my pants pocket in the leather case that came with the phone (I'm waiting on a holster from eBay).
The screen is in perfect condition, however, I did scuff the corner of the HD2 by dropping it (in its leather case) as I went to put it in my pocket coming out of a movie theatre...dropped onto cement.
: /
I use a screen protector and have a very nice silicone case for it that fits very snug, but I'm just being careful.
I believe that common sense is enough to keep this device from being damaged. As you can see from the linked video above, the screen is very resiliant, but it's not scratchproof. Also, why on earth anyone would put it in the back pocket of their trousers and sit down is totally beyone me, but people have done it (and probably still do), but they end up on here asking how to fix their damaged screen. (My advice to them is to hook up a flex capacitor to their car, drive at 88mph, go back in time to before they broke it and slap themselves round the face and say "STOP BEING SILLY!!!")
It's tough, but not unbreakable. Just treat it with respect, look after it sensibly, and DO NOT PUT IT IN YOUR BACK TROUSER POCKET OR FRONT SHIRT POCKET!!!
As the meerkats say... simples
(I hate those adverts, but I do like Back To The Future )
johncmolyneux said:
FRONT SHIRT POCKET!!!
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Why not...I put it in there all the time?
So it won't fall out or...?
Spike15 said:
Why not...I put it in there all the time?
So it won't fall out or...?
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lol - I've NEVER seen anyone on this forum say that that has happened to them <sarc mark>
johncmolyneux said:
lol - I've NEVER seen anyone on this forum say that that has happened to them <sarc mark>
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Just making sure I wasn't missing something.
Personally I don't bend over when I need to get something on the floor et cetera...I bend my knees...I've heard that bending like that is bad for your back.
Spike15 said:
Just making sure I wasn't missing something.
Personally I don't bend over when I need to get something on the floor et cetera...I bend my knees...I've heard that bending like that is bad for your back.
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Yes, and even moreso if you have a hernia! Good to see that xda is also responsible for good health advice too
I can't wait for mine to arrive next week. I can tell you from experience that the IPHONE has cracked 3 times in pocket when I put too much pressure. Apple does replace them on a regular basis. They allow for what they call a hairline. If it spiders they won't replace it but a hairline is within their tolerance and is common enough for them to replace it without question. That is how I ended up with a new replacement recently. I wasn't using the phone much but my HD battery died on site so I put the time into the IPHONE to use it. I squatted with the IPHONE in backpocket and CRACK. I probably should check my beltline while I am at it..
They replaced it and that worked out anyways as I am going to sell it. Keep my HD and Bold as backup.
The glass looks pretty solid and as many people reported it a good solid piece of hardware.
i keep mine in the case it comes with when i am carrying it around... any pocket really.
i just make sure i dont sit on it! lol
the screen itself is extremely resilient when it is out and in use.
I leave mine lying around all of the time out of the case and it still looks brand new.
I dont use any screen protector.
screen strength
being a kapasitive screen it uses a propper glass cover instead of ****ty plexi glass or resistive glass as most phones use, this naturally gives it a more scratch proof serface but makes it less resilient to actually breaking. like one guy said it all has to do with angle and preshure.. and abit of bad luck when it comes to screen protection i recomend invisiShield. they are nice and thin, VERY clear plastic so it doesnt disturb teh screen quality. and last but not least, the fabric its made of is teh same as teh stuff that they use to cover helicopter rotor blades with, so it comes with a 30 year waranty.
Thanks for all the replies so far. I suspected as much, but it sure is nice to hear other people's experience
Cheers, R
Impunitus said:
Thanks for all the replies so far. I suspected as much, but it sure is nice to hear other people's experience
Cheers, R
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I had the same fear with its screen .. i posted a poll on the screen
see this
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=618978

Screen scratch test fail

hi chaps,
i recently got myself an evo 4g and was contemplating a screen protector. then i came across some videos on YouTube proclaiming just how tough the gorilla glass (?) on the evo is and withstood all kinds of torture.
anyway, in the spirit of finding out for myself, i tried the same thing to my phone and i definitely suggest not trying it yourself. The screen most definitely does scratch. Now we now.
Link below to see the video and pics.
http://asmd.wordpress.com/2011/05/17/a-blade-to-the-belly-of-the-beast/
regards,
asmd.
asmd6230 said:
hi chaps,
i recently got myself an evo 4g and was contemplating a screen protector. then i came across some videos on YouTube proclaiming just how tough the gorilla glass (?) on the evo is and withstood all kinds of torture.
anyway, in the spirit of finding out for myself, i tried the same thing to my phone and i definitely suggest not trying it yourself. The screen most definitely does scratch. Now we now.
Link below to see the video and pics.
http://asmd.wordpress.com/2011/05/17/a-blade-to-the-belly-of-the-beast/
regards,
asmd.
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i already knew it scratched hell iv even broke the screen on my first evo so yea my keys have scratched my screen however you can see it. it doesnt make it look bad or aweful in anyway just notice it under certain angles so kind of dumb to ruin yours to do this test could have just asked if anyone had scratchs on their screen and to take pictures
Ok, so, you went from "I should get a screen protector!" to "I'm gonna take a razor blade to this *****!" in the span of a youtube video?!
Jesus man, I hope to god you don't find out about failblog or else your hospital bills are going to be ridiculous.
ha ha!!
nah man... i was considering a screen protector. Always had one on my HD2 and Touch Diamond. But then i got to reading about how tough the glass was.. and then the YouTube videos. I though to myself, this is brilliant., no screen protector needed.
I initially tried with just the corners and there were no scratches, after which i figured let me catch the main test on video just for sake of it.
now, with what i did to my Evo, the outcome should have be the same as those other chaps who posted on Youtube, but i got a couple of scratches which i took pictures of.... what i proved was that its highly unlikely those Evos came away undamaged or theres something fishy going on.
Btw, im probably not going to use a screen protector. If anything, maybe a slip case. I mean, after all that coin scratching, scicssors scoring and blade cutting, it only came away with two scratches. The second was small enough that i found it hard to take a picture of. The one i could take a picture of is noticeable if viewed from a particular angle. Looking at it head on in normal use is not noticeable.
Plus if it does get that bad, the screens go for $20 bucks on ebay...
but then again, there is the question of resale though.... hhhmmm.
Anyway, i looked on the net and all i got was confused answers, take it from me chaps this is definitive. And ive got the scratch to prove it.
regards,
asmd.
Haha. You said chaps....... I remember the glass on my *gasp* blackberry storm being tough. I scratched it with everything and never once noticed anything. Never tried with my evo. Just too sexy of a phone
Sent from "The EVO" using XDA Premium
where are you from out of curiosity?
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA Premium App
Some times the cheap ones work the best screen protector wise check out extreme guard or few others eBay there cheap and work well. I'm using a Kraken case to keep my new phone mint.
I have a watch that has a saphire crystal that is supposed to be unscratchble. I used to demo it when drunk rubbing the face on concrete. Well one night it actually did scratch, and it was a biggin. Luckily Rado replaced it for me free of charge. Lesson learned.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA Premium App
btw, which screen protector has the most glass like feel to it in use?
ive consistently come across posts complaining about zaggs tacky feel and yellowing... so, which reigns as king of the hill of screen protectors?
i wish i could remember what mine was on the hd2. feels pretty nice and no discoloration.
Hmmm failblog sounds interesting......
I.... wouldn't have tried this. XD
halorin said:
I.... wouldn't have tried this. XD
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now that i have, you will never have to.
its just something i was really curious about. the youtube videos seemed so unlikely but technology does advance and i wanted to personally put it to the test.
no regrets.
its just a phone. nothing last forever.
and as a mate put it, i go through mobile devices faster than he updates his facebook status.
asmd6230 said:
btw, which screen protector has the most glass like feel to it in use?
ive consistently come across posts complaining about zaggs tacky feel and yellowing... so, which reigns as king of the hill of screen protectors?
i wish i could remember what mine was on the hd2. feels pretty nice and no discoloration.
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I like the boxwave clear touch protector, lasts a long time a.d feels pretty close to the glass
Sent from my Evo using the XDA app
I thought the gorrila glass was pretty tough until i bought some earrings and i had scratches all over my phone
I use my phone naked since there's no way I'm putting a case on such a huge phone.
It's stood up really well, actually. I've dropped it on concrete a few times and the only noticeable signs are some indents on the plastic around the outer rim.
Though if you look closely, there's little chips missing from my screen. You could definitely scratch it pretty badly without too much effort in my opinion.
My phone has a zagg screen protector on it and I don't have any yellowing issues... however if your fingers are oily or wet (duh most peoples are ) then yeah it can have a tacky sort of feel. I usually just do a quick wipe of my index finger on my jeans before I touch my screen.
Hazelfoot said:
I use my phone naked since there's no way I'm putting a case on such a huge phone.
It's stood up really well, actually. I've dropped it on concrete a few times and the only noticeable signs are some indents on the plastic around the outer rim.
Though if you look closely, there's little chips missing from my screen. You could definitely scratch it pretty badly without too much effort in my opinion.
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i get the case thing. i had an otterbox defender series on my phone with out much trouble til it became to stretched to hit the buttons correctly kinda disappointing i guess im glad i used a gift card to try it out. The screen protectors that came with are not bad but my phone is back to being completely naked ( oh noeesss!! ) but it seems to be fine.
glass wise no i wouldn't of tried this carrying this no shalantly in my pocket has shown its wear on the screen from random things in my pocket even though i "try" to keep it in its own pocket
Thank you OP for test and results, this answers some questions
wynnemelvin said:
I thought the gorrila glass was pretty tough until i bought some earrings and i had scratches all over my phone
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stones in earring i would expect are much harder than the glass of the screen and would undoubtedly scratch.
NewZJ said:
Thank you OP for test and results, this answers some questions
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your welcome.
a thank you is always appreciated.
i knew those boob tube videos were too good to be true.
im still going to keep it nude, after all thats scratching a couple of scratches.. i'll take my chances. plus i'll just have to remember to keep blades and scissors out of my pocket.
regards,
asmd.

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.
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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.

Nexus 4: How's that glass back holding up?

For people who have the Nexus 4, I'm wondering how that glass back is holding up?
The review unit at The Verge already has a small crack, from when it was accidentally knocked off of a table. And Android Central, in their review, said they were already seeing hairlines scratches on the back. I was also in a T-Mobile store today looking at their demo unit, which had a few hairline scratches on the back (even though they just got the phone today).
The glass back is one part of the build of the phone that I a bit worried about in the long run (after all, it didn't work out so well on the iPhone 4).
Thanks for any comments.
This should be in Q&A thread.
Apparently one of the people on this forum that got the device early, dropped it and the back broke
omigosh, maybe I'll just wait for the next Nexus.
Ouch.... I ordered screen protector for front and back, and a soft case but they won't come until later this month.
I guess I will have to stick with my old g2 for a while?
Why is everyone so worried about the BACK glass breaking? If I dropped the phone I'd be a whole lot more concerned over the front SCREEN breaking. The glass on the back cracking would be annoying, but it won't hurt the function of the phone. The front breaking obviously would, and every single smartphone has a glass screen.
dyslexicpenguin said:
Why is everyone so worried about the BACK glass breaking? If I dropped the phone I'd be a whole lot more concerned over the front SCREEN breaking. The glass on the back cracking would be annoying, but it won't hurt the function of the phone. The front breaking obviously would, and every single smartphone has a glass screen.
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Click to collapse
Shattered glass in your hands is bad either way
jacklebott said:
Shattered glass in your hands is bad either way
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Click to collapse
if it breaks just get a case or skin for it lol
I'm curious how well it'd hold up with a Zagg Invisi-Shield on it...if it would still crack simply from shock or not. Either way, i'll still get a bumper case for the phone simply out of paranoia, lol. I drop my phones like crazy. It's amazing how crazy I am over gadgets and protecting them, yet they still seem to slip from my desk/car/hand
I think i'm going to give this phone 2 months before I invest any money into it. I'd rather play it smart and wait than to be "cool" because I was the first to get one (which honestly, nobody really gives a **** about, lol). I had friends who were all "hey, hey look. I got the new 'insertnewphonehere'. I'm one of the first people to get one" and everyone else was like "......um, ok. You want a prize or something?" lol
dyslexicpenguin said:
Why is everyone so worried about the BACK glass breaking? If I dropped the phone I'd be a whole lot more concerned over the front SCREEN breaking. The glass on the back cracking would be annoying, but it won't hurt the function of the phone. The front breaking obviously would, and every single smartphone has a glass screen.
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Click to collapse
Yes, every single smartphone does have a glass screen, which is why there would be no point asking this question about any particular phone. It's a necessity and it's not a reason one is going to choose one phone over another.
But there's no reason the back of the Nexus 4 has to be glass, so it is relevant to consider how durable it's going to be when comparing it to other phones. Why effectively double a risk (of a glass part breaking), if it's not necessary?
It's also possible that the back of the Nexus 4 is not as durable as the typical screen. It is interesting that all of the stories of breaking and scratches, so far, are on the back phone.
thing is ..its simple... google heard all of last year how samsung screwed up the build quality of nexus with plastic..so they thought what material while cheap can provide a lil if not lot more premium feel...(the 4s pops into their head)..lg presents a similar phone..and voila nexus 4 is made.. im not saying its bad quality..to be honest its the best quality phone im gonna buy...
dyslexicpenguin said:
Why is everyone so worried about the BACK glass breaking? If I dropped the phone I'd be a whole lot more concerned over the front SCREEN breaking. The glass on the back cracking would be annoying, but it won't hurt the function of the phone. The front breaking obviously would, and every single smartphone has a glass screen.
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Click to collapse
Holy, Deja Vu. I swear I saw this post somewhere before. Maybe I was dreaming of you...
Anyways. Screen protectors won't hold the phone together from a drop. A case will. I'm getting a bumper.
Personally I love the glass back. I will not drop this phone and I will be using a case like I do with any expensive smart phone..
Sure, drop it onto a stone, cement or tile floor chances are it will crack. Many phones would.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Fuq plastic
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
I'm gonna leave the orgional plastic on it until the BSE total body protector and my case from china comes in.
Bumper on it. Sides protected, weak points of the glass that is. Done
Why care about the glass breaking at all? There will surely be OEM back plates available for sale on eBay (just as there are for the iPhones) and seeing how easy the Nexus 4 is to take apart, you could just replace it yourself for $20-$30!
Although the Nexus 4 back plate may be a little more expensive as it actually has components on it...
cb474 said:
Yes, every single smartphone does have a glass screen, which is why there would be no point asking this question about any particular phone. It's a necessity and it's not a reason one is going to choose one phone over another.
But there's no reason the back of the Nexus 4 has to be glass, so it is relevant to consider how durable it's going to be when comparing it to other phones. Why effectively double a risk (of a glass part breaking), if it's not necessary?
It's also possible that the back of the Nexus 4 is not as durable as the typical screen. It is interesting that all of the stories of breaking and scratches, so far, are on the back phone.
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Click to collapse
The back and front are both Gorilla Glass 2. if you are THAT worried about it, get ghost armor or something or a otterbox case.
jacklebott said:
Shattered glass in your hands is bad either way
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Click to collapse
I have not heard of anyone that had a shattered glass back on a Nexus 4. Cracked and scratched is a far cry from shattered.
ferozfero said:
thing is ..its simple... google heard all of last year how samsung screwed up the build quality of nexus with plastic..so they thought what material while cheap can provide a lil if not lot more premium feel...(the 4s pops into their head)..lg presents a similar phone..and voila nexus 4 is made.. im not saying its bad quality..to be honest its the best quality phone im gonna buy...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I imagine something like this was the logic. And it is a nice phone. Defintely a step up in at least perceived build quality. But there are certainly a lot of other ways to get there. The rubbery matte material on the side of the phone has a nice feel to it. If the back had been made from that material, I think it would have had an equally premium feel and seemed a lot more durable. It's also a little sad to think that the best idea Google had was to copy the iPhone.
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Richieboy67 said:
Personally I love the glass back. I will not drop this phone...
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Click to collapse
Good luck with that.
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donec said:
I have not heard of anyone that had a shattered glass back on a Nexus 4. Cracked and scratched is a far cry from shattered.
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Cracked and scratched on day 1 (even with review units) is not a good beginning. I suspect it's only a matter of time until we start seeing the image of shattered backs posted online. I hope I turn out to be wrong.
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stratax said:
The back and front are both Gorilla Glass 2. if you are THAT worried about it, get ghost armor or something or a otterbox case.
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Click to collapse
The back of the iPhone 4 is Gorilla Glass too. It didn't stop backs from shattering. Anyway, the point is that there is no reason to take the extra risk of having not just the screen as a fragile component, but also the back. It just doubles the odds of shattering something for no good reason. Sooner or later most people drop their phones. The job of a good designer is to mitigate (not enhance) the possible downsides of this.
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By the way, I like this phone. I may still get one. I'm just not excited about having to treat something I carry with me everywhere, like a delicate piece of equipment. I'm not clumsy. I've only dropped my Nexus One a couple times in two years. But things like that happen when you're least expecting it and coming up with a shattered back, rather than a nick or dent is going to be really annoying. (And I hate cases and all that crap. I carry my phone in my pocket. I don't need to make a device designed to be as thin and pocketable as possible, thicker and more cumbersome.)

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