Cracked phone screens are an unfortunate yet common occurrence in today’s digital age. With smartphones being essential to our everyday lives, from communication to work and entertainment, the risk of accidentally dropping them is ever-present. According to recent statistics, around 50 million smartphone screens are cracked each year, making it one of the most frequent phone-related issues. Whether it happens from a small slip, an accidental knock, or a simple mishandling, a cracked screen can feel like a major setback.
Acting quickly when your phone screen cracks is crucial to preventing further damage. What may start as a minor crack can quickly worsen if left unattended, potentially leading to malfunctioning touch sensitivity, exposure of internal components, or even injury from sharp edges. The longer you wait, the more expensive and complex the repair can become.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the necessary steps to take after your phone screen cracks. We’ll cover everything from assessing the severity of the damage to implementing temporary fixes, when to seek professional repairs, and how to decide whether it's better to repair or replace your device. By following these steps, you can minimize further damage and make informed decisions about handling your cracked screen.
1. Assess the Damage
When your phone screen cracks, the first step is to assess the extent of the damage. Not all cracks are the same, and understanding the severity can help you determine the best course of action.
Evaluate the Severity of the Crack
Cracks can range from minor surface-level damage to deep, extensive cracks that impair the phone’s functionality. Surface cracks may only affect the outermost layer of the screen (the glass), while deeper cracks can penetrate the digitizer, which is responsible for touch input.
- Surface-Level Cracks: These cracks are typically cosmetic and may not immediately affect the phone’s functionality. However, they can still weaken the structure of the screen, making it more susceptible to further damage.
- Deep Cracks: If the cracks are deep enough to affect the digitizer, you may notice issues with touch sensitivity, such as unresponsive areas or unintended taps. This type of damage requires more immediate attention.
Does the Screen Still Respond to Touch?
After assessing the visible damage, test whether the screen still responds to touch as it should. If parts of the screen are unresponsive or if the phone registers ghost touches (where the phone thinks you’re touching areas you aren’t), it may indicate more severe damage beneath the glass. Unresponsive touch functionality often requires professional repair, as it can affect your ability to use the phone effectively.
Are There Any Sharp Edges or Exposed Parts?
Check for sharp edges or glass pieces protruding from the screen. These can be dangerous, as handling a cracked screen improperly may result in injury. If you see any exposed internal components, such as the phone’s LCD or other parts beneath the glass, it’s a sign of significant damage, and you should avoid using the phone until it can be repaired.
Check for Other Issues
A cracked screen can sometimes cause additional problems, even if they aren’t immediately visible. Inspect the phone’s overall functionality:
- Display Issues: Is the display still clear, or are there lines, black spots, or discoloration on the screen? These can indicate damage to the LCD.
- Touchscreen and Camera Problems: Test your phone’s camera and other features to ensure everything is still working as expected. Cracked screens can sometimes disrupt the camera lens or other sensors.
By assessing the damage thoroughly, you can better decide whether to implement a temporary fix or seek professional help.
2. Immediate Steps to Prevent Further Damage
Once you’ve assessed the damage, it’s time to take immediate steps to prevent the crack from worsening and protect yourself from injury.
Apply a Temporary Fix
A temporary fix can help prevent the crack from spreading and safeguard your hands from broken glass. Two common options include:
- Use a Screen Protector or Clear Packing Tape: If the screen is still functional and the cracks are relatively minor, applying a screen protector can hold the glass in place and reduce the chances of further damage. In cases where you don’t have a screen protector, clear packing tape can be an effective alternative. Gently clean the screen to remove any dust or debris before carefully placing the tape over the cracked area.
- Be Careful with Touching the Screen: If the crack has caused sharp edges, avoid directly touching those areas to prevent cuts or further breakage. Use the undamaged parts of the screen whenever possible, or move on to using a stylus as a safer alternative (discussed in section 3).
Backup Your Data
Cracked screens can sometimes lead to additional internal damage over time, so it's wise to back up your data immediately. If the phone suddenly becomes unusable, you risk losing important information.
- Importance of Backing Up: Whether your phone becomes unresponsive or more serious internal damage occurs, having a recent backup ensures that all your contacts, photos, and data are safe.
- Steps to Back Up Your Data: Use cloud services such as Google Drive, iCloud, or OneDrive to store your files remotely. Alternatively, connect your phone to a computer and back up your data through software like iTunes (for iPhones) or by transferring files manually.
Turn Off the Phone If Damage Is Severe
If the damage is extensive—such as deep cracks, flickering screens, or exposed components—it may be best to turn off your phone to avoid any risk of internal damage or short-circuiting.
- When to Turn It Off: If you notice irregular behavior such as screen flickering, unresponsiveness, or visible internal damage, turning off the phone can prevent the issue from worsening.
- Avoid Further Use: Continuing to use a phone with severe screen damage can exacerbate the problem or cause data loss. It’s best to seek professional repairs as soon as possible if this happens.
3. Temporary Solutions to Keep Using the Phone
If your phone is still functional after the screen cracks, there are some temporary workarounds to keep it usable until you can get it repaired.
Using a Stylus Instead of Fingers
To avoid worsening the cracks or injuring your fingers on the jagged edges of broken glass, you can use a stylus to navigate your phone. A stylus exerts less pressure on the screen, which may prevent further damage and make it safer to interact with the device.
Use Voice Commands
Another option to minimize screen interaction is to enable voice commands. Most modern smartphones come equipped with voice assistants like Siri (iOS) or Google Assistant (Android), which can perform many functions without requiring touch input.
- Set Up Voice Commands: If you haven’t already, set up the voice assistant on your phone. You can perform tasks like sending messages, making calls, or opening apps simply by using your voice.
- Accessibility Features: You can also explore the accessibility settings on your phone, which may offer additional hands-free options for navigating the device.
Consider a DIY Repair (With Caution)
For those who are tech-savvy, DIY screen replacement kits are available online. These kits typically include tools and a new screen that you can install yourself. However, attempting a DIY repair is risky and should only be done if you are confident in your abilities.
- Why Exercise Caution: Improperly handling the phone during a DIY repair can lead to more significant damage, void warranties, or result in an unusable phone. Always consider professional help unless you have prior experience in phone repairs.
4. When to Seek Professional Repair
In many cases, the best course of action after a screen cracks is to seek professional repair. This ensures that the issue is fixed properly and prevents further complications.
Signs You Need Immediate Professional Repair
There are several key indicators that you should take your phone to a professional as soon as possible:
- Unresponsive Touchscreen: If the touchscreen is not responding, certain areas don’t register input, or there are ghost touches, professional repair is necessary.
- Discolored Display or Flickering Screen: Any irregularities in the display, such as discoloration or flickering, can signal underlying damage to the phone’s hardware.
- Sharp Edges and Exposed Glass: If the crack has caused pieces of glass to fall out or sharp edges to form, professional repair is important for both safety and functionality.
Choosing a Professional Repair Service
When looking for a repair shop, prioritize ones with certified technicians and a good reputation:
- Certifications: Technicians certified by your phone’s manufacturer (e.g., Apple or Samsung) will have the training to repair the device without voiding warranties.
- Reviews and Reputation: Check online reviews and customer feedback to ensure the shop has a strong track record of quality service.
- Warranties: A good repair service will offer a warranty on the repair, typically ranging from 30 to 90 days, which covers any issues related to the replacement parts or the repair process itself.
Costs of Screen Repair
The cost of screen repair varies depending on your phone model and the severity of the damage:
- Average Costs: Screen repair for flagship models like iPhones and Samsung Galaxy phones typically ranges from $100 to $300. Lower-end models or older phones may be less expensive to fix.
- Insurance and Warranties: If your phone is under warranty or you have phone insurance, your out-of-pocket repair costs may be reduced or covered entirely.
5. Weighing the Cost of Repair vs. Replacing the Phone
When dealing with a cracked screen, it’s important to evaluate whether repairing the phone is worth it or if replacing the device makes more sense.
When Repair is Worth It
In many cases, repairing a phone is more cost-effective than replacing it:
- Newer Phones with Minor Damage: For phones that are relatively new or have minor screen damage, repairing is typically the best option. This ensures the phone will continue to function without the expense of buying a new device.
- Warranties and Insurance: If you have a warranty or insurance, repairing the phone can be far cheaper than replacing it.
When to Consider Replacing
For older phones or those with more extensive damage, replacing the device may be a smarter choice:
- Outdated Technology: If your phone is several generations old and the cost of repair approaches the cost of a new phone, replacing the device might offer better value.
- Performance Issues: If your phone is already suffering from poor battery life, slow performance, or other issues, replacing it with a newer model may be more practical.
Options for Selling or Recycling a Damaged Phone
If you decide to replace your phone, consider these options for your damaged device:
- Trade-In Programs: Many retailers and carriers offer trade-in programs where you can receive credit for your damaged phone, which can be applied toward the purchase of a new one.
- Eco-Friendly Recycling: If your phone is beyond repair or not worth selling, look for eco-friendly recycling programs that ensure your device is disposed of properly.
6. Preventing Future Screen Damage
After dealing with a cracked screen, it’s worth investing in preventative measures to avoid future incidents.
Invest in a High-Quality Screen Protector
Screen protectors are a simple yet effective way to safeguard your phone’s display. They provide an additional layer of protection against scratches, cracks, and everyday wear and tear.
- How Screen Protectors Help: A good screen protector can absorb the impact from drops or bumps, significantly reducing the chances of a cracked screen.
- Types of Screen Protectors: Look for tempered glass protectors, which offer better impact resistance than plastic film protectors.
Use a Durable Phone Case
A sturdy phone case can add an extra layer of protection, especially around the edges and corners, which are the most vulnerable areas during drops.
- Recommended Cases: Shockproof or rugged cases with reinforced edges are ideal for preventing damage during falls. Some cases even come with built-in screen protection.
- Customizing Your Case: There are numerous case options available, allowing you to choose something that fits your style while still offering protection.
Be Mindful of Where and How You Handle Your Phone
Simple habits can go a long way in preventing future damage:
- Avoid Using Your Phone Over Hard Surfaces: If possible, keep your phone away from concrete, tile, or other hard surfaces where a drop could easily lead to a crack.
- Secure Your Phone While Walking: Use a phone grip or strap to minimize the chances of dropping it while on the go.
- Regular Maintenance: Cleaning your phone and inspecting it for minor damage regularly can help you catch potential issues before they worsen.
In summary, when your phone screen cracks, taking the right steps immediately can prevent further damage and save you money in the long run. From assessing the damage to applying temporary fixes, backing up your data, and determining whether to repair or replace the phone, each decision is crucial. By following this guide, you can make informed choices to ensure your phone is repaired quickly and efficiently. Remember, protecting your phone from future damage with a screen protector and durable case can save you from dealing with another cracked screen down the road.