Screen protectors

[Simon]

This might sound like a stupid question... 

I've never used screen protectors on my phones.  I've never had a problem with scratched screens because I don't tend to keep phones in my pockets with keys or coins, and never lay them face down.  I realise I may have been lucky, but both of my iPhones (3G and 4S) both still have perfectly mint screens.

Now, the HTC One M8 I purchased recently came with a screen protector - or so I was told.  The 'problem', not that it's a real problem, is that I can't tell whether there's one on it or not.  I always thought, and this is one of the reasons I've never used them, that you were bound to get a few little bubbles, or there would at least be some sign that one was present.  Can these be fitted so perfectly that they can't be seen? 

[john]

I bought a new mobile phone earlier this year and when I unpacked it I noticed that the screen had a small scratch on it. I went back to the shop and was somewhat embarassed to be told that the 'scratch' was on the screen protector that I was supposed to remove. It fitted so well and was so clear and without any bubbles that I could not notice it and have it fact left it on.

When I bought my camera I also bought a screen protector and was able to fit it perfectly without any bubbles and I can't tell it's there. I also bought a screen protector for my tablet but there are still a couple of very small bubbles that I haven't been able to remove but they're so small that they don't bother me.

[Simon]

That's somewhat reassuring, thanks John.  The guy who sold me the phone has also included three new screen protectors, but even if I wanted to change it, I can't see how I'd get the old one off!

[john]

If you were using some kind of tool to remove an existing screen protector I think you'd have to be careful that you didn't scratch the screen but all the screen protectors I've seen do not rely on an adhesive but just seem to stay in place without readily peeling off. I think you could probably remove them easily once you've prised up one corner. When fitting them you do have to ensure that the screen is perfectly clean and free from dust and grease etc. You also usually need to smooth out any air bubbles too.

[zappaDPJ]

It's really hard but it is possible to fit a screen protector in such a way that it's not visible. I've managed to do it on my daughter's iPhone a couple of times but it took a couple of attempts and a wasted protector to get it right. If you do get it right you really wouldn't know it was there.

[Steve]

There is usually an edge to see somewhere especially on the front around the various openings. I've put one on mine until I get a case. I too wasted one this time but after looking at various videos online I made an excellent job on the rear and a very good job on the front. The front one will probably disappear with the release of the official phone case,

[Technical Ben]

Also the protector is plastic. So if there is an edge, it will peel. Where as glass will resist any attempt.

[Simon]

I've tried picking at a corner, but nothing seems to be peeling.  I'm pretty sure there is one on there,  but I'm amazed at how well it's been fitted.

[nowster]

Scotch tape will usually act as a very good way of lifting off a screen protector.

[Simon]

I'm more worried about lifting off a layer of the screen! 

To be honest, unless it gets too grubby, I don't really need to take it off, and I'd never get another one on so well, so I'll probably just leave it on until I sell the phone.

[Steve]

I thought screen protectors tended to scratch relatively easily and indeed the one I've put on my phone is already showing some.


Edit It seems the glass tempered screen protectors are fairly invisible although they're bound to have an edge and of course will shatter given enough provocation also they're much easier to get a perfect fit.

[Simon]

Looking at it in daylight, with my glasses on today, I can now see a rounded edge in all the corners, which is indicative of an extra layer on the screen, so I think this screen does have one, and it's been very well fitted.

[Simon]

I have to admit, I'm impressed with the battery on this phone.  I've been using it all day sending and reading emails and I still have 28% left.  I'd have had to recharge my iPhone hours before now, with the same usage. 

[Simon]

27%... 

[peasblossom]

I asked about this in Carphone Warehouse once and this: http://www.zagg.com/invisibleshield/index.php came highly recommended. No air bubbles, apparently.

[Simon]

Good to know.