Over the years, smartphones have become indispensable devices. Their use has evolved from making calls and sending text messages to helping us navigate unknown territory, keeping us informed of the latest news updates, and even tracking our finances. As an everyday device, it’s only a matter of time before your smartphone slips out of your hand or slides from your grip. You might spill coffee all over it or drop it in the toilet (accidentally, of course). It might have been exposed to rain or salt water during that impulsive trip to the beach.
Because of these, we’ve learned to choose phones that can withstand common drops and slips, slides and spills. Manufacturers have also realized the value that these gadgets hold for consumers so they continue to think of ways to improve smartphones — especially in terms of durability.
New research and rigorous testing have resulted in advancements in smartphone technology. Smartphones now have ratings that specify their protection levels from dust and water. Devices like the iPhone X are dust-resistant and can endure being submerged in a meter of water for up to 30 minutes. Corning’s Gorilla Glass provides high scratch resistance and improved drop performance, while other phones boast of shatterproof screens.
But no device is truly unbreakable. Here are some accessories that can offer added protection for your smartphone:
Phone Case
A case can be an inexpensive way to protect your phone. Sure, it makes your phone look sleek but its function extends beyond style. A good case can keep dust and dirt away, protect your device from liquid spills, and act as a cushion for drops.
Phone cases come in materials such as leather, hard plastic, soft plastic, silicone, and wood. Choose one that suits your needs and best protects your phone.
Screen Protector
The screen is one of the most fragile parts of your phone. This glass element is prone to smudges and scratches. It can crack or completely shatter when dropped from a considerable height. That’s why protecting your phone’s screen is essential.
Screen protectors can minimize glare, offer resistance to scratching or reduce cracking and breakage. Plastic screen protectors are often cheaper than their tempered glass counterparts but tempered glass protectors are usually tougher, taking the brunt of the force and absorbing the shock from a fall. There are also privacy screen protectors that allow you to clearly view what’s displayed on your phone while people looking on can only see a darkened screen.
When choosing a screen protector, make sure it offers basic protection from dust, dirt, and scratches. It should also be thin enough to preserve touchscreen sensitivity.
Waterproof Pouch
A waterproof pouch is a handy outdoor accessory for your smartphone. These transparent pouches are sturdy enough to protect your device from water damage but are also thin enough to recognize your touch in case you need to take photos or make calls. Some of these pouches even come with lanyards. Slide your phone into the pouch, drape it around your neck and have the time of your life on your next camping adventure or beach trip.
Smartphones have not only become smarter — they’ve also become tougher. Choosing a durable phone and even more durable accessories can help protect your precious investment for years to come.