The iPhone 4 might settle the point as to whether the iPhone
screen scratch resistant features really work. Its Aluminosilicate glass
feature is a real bonus. Gorilla glass is all the rage when it comes to mobile
devices today. According to Dell Streak, it is virtually indestructible (within
reason). Corning argues that their creation can withstand most types of
pressure associated with normal usage and the mobile phone market has taken
marketing presentation to heart. However we must seriously consider whether
iPhones can really stand the pressure of everyday use.
The
technical construction of brittle glass
Dr. Donnell Walton is an engineer representing Corning
and is responsible for explaining the genesis of this feature. He argues that
the strength of the brittle materials used can withstand compression
effectively but tend to collapse when there is tension. Unfortunately iPhones
manufactured in the last few years have not been able to withstand the pressure
when the Apple gadget is dropped. Gorilla glass is a step-up in that respect
and offers new opportunities for the manufacturer as well as the mobile phone
market in general.
The
iPhone 4 holds the promise of durable screen glass
The Apple brand has put out information to the effect
that their new screen is 20 times stiffer and 30 times harder than ordinary
plastic. In addition they promised a screen that was remarkably scratch-resistant
as a consequence of the use of aluminosilicate glass during the manufacturing
process. If imitation is the highest form of flattery then Corning should be
pleased because that is the same model that Apple uses in their production
process. Under consumer testing, the iPhone 4 survived a 3.5 foot drop twice in
succession but then cracked when a third attempt was made. Corning argues that
they can beat that result.
The
iPhone 5 promises even stronger glass screens
The jury is out on the ET Trade Supply leak of the
purported iPhone 5 screen. Apparently it measures 0.1 mm thinner than the
iPhone 4S. However the yet-unconfirmed rumors point to its superior scratch
resistance. The moral of the story is that you should not drop your Apple
iPhone more than 3 times or longer than 3 feet. In any case if it scratches, a
coat of Turtle Wax will minimize the ugly appearance but leave the screen
susceptible to unseemly fingerprint marks. The 3M scratch remover and Displex
are some of the alternatives that could be considered. Those with the requisite
DIY skills can try buffing using a cerium oxide compound. There is a
preventative approach which is achieved by using a screen protector film.
Some
concluding remarks on the iPhone and scratches
To some extent Apple products such as the iPhone 4S and
the anticipated iPhone 5 offer the possibility of a scratch-free life. However
there is a limit to their capabilities. For example they will crack if the drop
is significant or repeated several times. The concept of an iPhone screen
scratch resistant feature has its limitations. However there are some remedies
that can rescue the situation.
