Screen Protectors Are Mostly Unnecessary for Modern Phones

Smartphone displays are now incredibly durable, making screen protectors an unnecessary expense for most users.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 1:36pm

An extreme close-up of a smooth, matte black smartphone display with clean, geometric lines and subtle metallic accents, resting on a stark white background, conceptually illustrating the durability of modern phone screens.The latest smartphone displays are engineered to withstand the rigors of daily use, reducing the need for additional screen protection.NYC Today

Smartphone screen protectors have become a popular accessory, with the market expected to reach $50 billion in 2025. However, the author argues that screen protectors are largely unnecessary for most people, as modern phone displays are incredibly durable and can withstand the rigors of daily use without additional protection. The article highlights advancements in Corning's Gorilla Glass technology, which has made phone screens highly resistant to scratches and damage from drops. The author suggests that the money spent on screen protectors would be better invested in a good phone case and extended warranty.

Why it matters

As the screen protector market continues to grow, it's important for consumers to understand that they may be wasting money on an unnecessary accessory. The article aims to educate readers on the improved durability of modern smartphone displays, empowering them to make more informed purchasing decisions.

The details

The article explains that the sheer durability of smartphones has come a long way since the early days of the iPhone and Android devices. This is largely due to advancements in Corning's Gorilla Glass technology, which is used in the displays of many high-end smartphones. The latest Gorilla Armor 2 glass, used in Samsung's Galaxy S25 phones, has been tested to withstand scratches and damage from a one-meter drop. The author notes that a good phone case, which often features a small lip around the edge to protect the screen, can further enhance the durability of a smartphone.

  • The screen protector market is expected to eclipse $50 billion in 2025.
  • The author hasn't used a screen protector on his phone since the late 2010s.

The players

Corning

The company that has created the proprietary glass coverings for every iPhone and upscale Android display since the birth of the smartphone. Corning's latest Gorilla Glass and Gorilla Armor materials are highly resistant to scratches and damage.

Samsung

The manufacturer of the Galaxy S25 phones, which use Corning's Gorilla Armor 2 glass in their displays.

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What they’re saying

“Putting on a screen protector is easy... unless you get a bubble between the glass and the display.”

— Trevor Raab

What’s next

The author suggests that consumers would be better off investing in a good phone case and extended warranty rather than spending money on a screen protector.

The takeaway

Modern smartphone displays have become incredibly durable, making screen protectors an unnecessary expense for most users. The money spent on screen protectors would be better used to purchase a high-quality phone case and extended warranty, which can provide better protection for your device.