How to Know if Your Phone Screen is Cracked: Signs, Symptoms, and What to Do

A cracked phone screen can be a frustrating and costly problem. While some cracks might seem minor, even a small fracture can lead to further complications if left unchecked. Understanding the signs of a cracked screen can help you take prompt action to prevent additional damage and maintain your phone’s functionality.

1. Table of Contents

   Toggle

   Visible Cracks and Lines

The most apparent sign that your phone screen is cracked is the presence of visible cracks or lines across the display. These cracks can appear in different patterns, from minor hairline fractures to more extensive spider-web patterns. While small cracks might seem harmless, they can weaken the screen’s structure and spread over time.

Point of View: According to a report by Statista, nearly 50% of smartphone users in the U.S. have experienced a cracked screen at least once, illustrating how common this issue is. The report highlights the prevalence of accidental drops and impacts as primary causes of screen damage .

Additional Insight: Some users may ignore small cracks, assuming they’re not problematic. However, these cracks can worsen due to temperature changes or further impacts, potentially leading to a complete screen failure.

2. Touchscreen Malfunctions

Cracks in the screen can interfere with the touchscreen’s ability to register your inputs correctly. You may notice delayed responses, random inputs, or areas of the screen that no longer respond to touch. This malfunction is due to the disruption in the electrical signals that the touchscreen relies on to function.

Point of View:Consumer Reports highlights that even a minor crack can cause significant issues with touchscreen functionality. The sensitivity of modern touchscreens means that any damage can lead to unpredictable behavior, making the phone difficult or impossible to use effectively .

Additional Insight: If your touchscreen becomes unresponsive, it’s advisable to back up your data immediately. In some cases, the touchscreen might stop working entirely, leaving you unable to access your phone’s content.

3. Display Discoloration or Dead Pixels

Another symptom of a cracked screen is the appearance of discoloration, black spots, or dead pixels. These issues arise when the crack affects the display layers beneath the glass, leading to permanent damage in certain areas of the screen.

Point of View:TechRadar emphasizes that discoloration and dead pixels often indicate deeper damage beyond the surface crack. Ignoring these signs can result in further degradation of the display quality, making it harder to view content .

Additional Insight: Dead pixels and discoloration can also spread, causing larger portions of the screen to become unusable. If you notice these signs, it’s crucial to get the screen repaired or replaced to avoid worsening the damage.

4. Screen Flickering or Glitches

Screen flickering or glitches can occur when cracks damage the internal wiring of the display. This damage can cause the screen to flicker, change colors, or display random lines and patterns. Flickering can be intermittent or constant, depending on the severity of the damage.

Point of View: An article from The Verge points out that flickering and glitches are often early indicators of serious screen damage. If left unaddressed, these issues can escalate, leading to a total screen failure that could render the phone unusable .

Additional Insight: Screen flickering can also strain your eyes, making it uncomfortable to use the phone for extended periods. Addressing the issue early can help avoid eye discomfort and the need for more expensive repairs.

5. Sharp Edges and Risk of Injury

Cracks in your phone screen can create sharp edges that pose a risk of injury. If the screen is shattered or has jagged edges, you might cut your fingers or face while using the phone. This risk is especially high if the crack is along the edges of the screen where you typically hold the device.

Point of View:Digital Trends advises that cracked screens, especially those with sharp edges, should be handled carefully to avoid injury. The article suggests using a screen protector or a sturdy case to cover the damaged area until you can get the screen repaired .

Additional Insight: In addition to physical injury, sharp edges can also damage your pockets, bags, or other surfaces where you store your phone. Keeping your phone in a protective case can minimize this risk.

6. Difficulty in Viewing Content

A cracked screen can significantly impact your ability to view content clearly. Cracks can distort images, text, and videos, making it difficult to read messages, watch videos, or use apps. This visual disruption can be frustrating and diminish the overall experience of using your phone.

Point of View:Mashable notes that while some users may tolerate minor cracks, significant damage can make the phone nearly unusable for its intended purpose. The article stresses that even minor visual disruptions can become more pronounced over time, especially with continued use .

Additional Insight: If you rely on your phone for work or other important tasks, a cracked screen can hinder your productivity. In such cases, getting the screen repaired promptly is essential to avoid further inconvenience.

What to Do If Your Phone Screen Is Cracked

If you suspect that your phone screen is cracked, taking immediate action can help prevent the problem from worsening. Here’s what you can do:

– Assess the Damage: Carefully examine your phone to determine the extent of the crack. Check if the touchscreen is responsive and if the display shows any signs of discoloration, dead pixels, or flickering.

– Use a Screen Protector: If the crack is minor, applying a screen protector can help prevent it from spreading. A screen protector can also shield your fingers from sharp edges and reduce the risk of further damage.

– Seek Professional Repair: For significant cracks, it’s best to seek professional repair services. A qualified technician can replace the screen and ensure that your phone is fully functional again.

– Consider Replacement: If the damage is extensive or if the cost of repair is high, it might be more cost-effective to replace the phone altogether. Consider upgrading to a new model if your current phone is old or has other issues.

Point of View:PCMag suggests that in some cases, investing in a new device may be more economical than repairing a severely cracked screen, especially if the phone is older or if the damage has affected other components .

Additional Insight: When deciding between repair and replacement, consider the age of your phone and the availability of newer models. If your phone is outdated, upgrading to a new device might offer better performance and features.

Conclusion

Cracked phone screens are a common problem that can lead to various issues, from touchscreen malfunctions to potential injuries. Recognizing the signs of a cracked screen early allows you to take appropriate measures to address the problem before it worsens. Whether you choose to repair the screen, use a temporary fix, or replace the phone, handling a cracked screen promptly is crucial for maintaining your device’s usability and safety.

References:

1. Statista – Overview of smartphone users who have experienced a cracked screen.
2. Consumer Reports – Touchscreen functionality and the impact of cracks.
3. TechRadar – Addressing display discoloration and pixel damage.
4. The Verge – The significance of screen flickering and glitches.
5. Digital Trends – Safety tips for handling cracked screens.
6. Mashable – Impact of cracked screens on content viewing.
7. PCMag – Cost analysis of screen repair versus replacement.