Galaxy Note 7 Display Easily Scratched A Deeper Look

The Galaxy Note 7 Display: Galaxy Note 7 Display Easily Scratched

The Galaxy Note 7 display was a marvel of engineering, boasting a stunning Super AMOLED screen that delivered vibrant colors, deep blacks, and exceptional clarity. This advanced display technology was a key feature that captivated users, but it also faced criticism due to its susceptibility to scratches. To understand why this occurred, we need to delve into the construction and materials used in the Note 7 display.

Materials Used in the Note 7 Display

The Note 7’s display consisted of several layers, each playing a crucial role in delivering the final image.

* Gorilla Glass 5: This durable glass protected the display from scratches and minor impacts. It was a significant upgrade from previous generations of Gorilla Glass, offering enhanced scratch resistance.
* AMOLED Panel: This is the heart of the display, responsible for generating the images. It comprises a thin layer of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) that illuminate when an electric current passes through them.
* Touchscreen Layer: This layer allows users to interact with the display. It is made of a transparent material that senses the pressure of a finger or stylus.
* Protective Layers: The display also had several protective layers, including a thin layer of anti-reflective coating and a layer of oleophobic coating to resist fingerprints.

The Note 7 display’s construction involved a delicate balance between durability and thinness, which made it susceptible to scratches.

Scratch Resistance and User Experience

The Galaxy Note 7, with its impressive specs and features, faced a significant issue: its display was surprisingly susceptible to scratches. This issue raised concerns among users and fueled discussions about the phone’s durability. Let’s delve into the scratch resistance of the Note 7 display, compare it to other flagships of its time, and examine the user experience.

Scratch Resistance Comparison

To understand the severity of the Note 7’s scratch susceptibility, it’s crucial to compare its display to other high-end smartphones released around the same time. The Note 7’s display was made of Corning Gorilla Glass 4, which was considered a standard for flagship smartphones at the time. However, compared to other devices like the iPhone 6s Plus (Gorilla Glass 5) or the LG G5 (Gorilla Glass 4 with an additional layer of protection), the Note 7’s display was found to be more prone to scratches.

User Experiences and Anecdotes

Numerous users reported experiencing scratches on their Note 7 displays even with relatively minor incidents. Many attributed the scratches to the phone’s design, which featured a slightly protruding display that made it more susceptible to damage. Several users reported scratches appearing after simply carrying the phone in their pocket alongside keys or other objects. Others noticed scratches after dropping the phone from a relatively low height.

Potential Causes of Scratches

While the Note 7’s display material itself might not have been the sole culprit, several factors contributed to its scratch vulnerability.

• Improper Handling: The phone’s protruding display made it more prone to scratches when carried in pockets or bags alongside keys or other abrasive objects.
• Exposure to Abrasive Materials: Contact with rough surfaces like sand, gravel, or even certain types of clothing could easily scratch the display.
• Dropping the Phone: Even a minor drop from a low height could cause scratches, especially if the phone landed on a hard surface.

The Impact of Scratches on Display Functionality

Scratches on the Galaxy Note 7’s display can significantly impact its functionality, affecting both the user experience and the device’s resale value. These scratches can impair touch responsiveness, diminish image clarity, and even lead to further damage or screen failure over time.

The Effect of Scratches on Touch Responsiveness, Galaxy note 7 display easily scratched

Scratches on the Note 7’s display can interfere with the digitizer’s ability to accurately detect touch inputs. The digitizer is a layer beneath the glass that translates touch pressure into electrical signals. Scratches can disrupt this process, causing the display to become unresponsive or misinterpret touch commands. This can make it difficult to navigate menus, type text, or use the Note 7’s various touch-sensitive features.

Preventive Measures and Protective Solutions

The Galaxy Note 7’s display, while stunning, is susceptible to scratches. Protecting it should be a priority for any Note 7 user. A variety of methods and products can help mitigate this risk, ensuring your display stays pristine for longer.

Screen Protectors

Screen protectors are essential for safeguarding your Note 7’s display. They act as a barrier between the glass and the outside world, absorbing the impact of scratches and minor bumps.

Types of Screen Protectors

• Tempered Glass: Tempered glass screen protectors offer the highest level of protection. They are made from chemically treated glass, making them much stronger and more resistant to scratches and impact. These protectors are also highly transparent, ensuring minimal impact on screen clarity.
• PET Film: PET film protectors are more affordable than tempered glass but offer less protection. They are made from a thin, flexible plastic that can resist minor scratches. However, they are more prone to tearing and offer less impact resistance. PET film protectors are also less transparent than tempered glass, potentially affecting screen clarity.
• Liquid Screen Protectors: Liquid screen protectors are applied as a thin, invisible layer on the screen. They provide a hydrophobic coating that repels water and fingerprints, and they can also offer some protection against scratches. However, they are not as effective as tempered glass or PET film protectors.

Additional Preventive Measures

• Case: A protective case for your Note 7 can provide an extra layer of protection against scratches and other damage. Choose a case that covers the edges of the display to prevent scratches from occurring when the phone is placed face down on a surface.
• Avoid Abrasive Surfaces: Placing your Note 7 on rough or abrasive surfaces can lead to scratches. Use a soft, smooth surface or a microfiber cloth to protect your phone’s display.
• Clean Regularly: Regularly cleaning your Note 7’s display with a microfiber cloth can help prevent scratches and dust buildup.

Repairing a Scratched Display

A scratched Note 7 display can be a frustrating experience, especially considering the device’s premium build and high-resolution screen. While the severity of the scratch will determine the best course of action, there are several repair options available, ranging from professional services to DIY solutions.

Professional Repair Services

Professional repair services offer a convenient and potentially more reliable solution for fixing a scratched Note 7 display. These services typically involve replacing the entire display assembly, which includes the screen, digitizer, and sometimes the frame. Here’s a breakdown of the process and considerations:

• Assessment and Diagnosis: The repair technician will assess the damage and determine the extent of the scratch. This helps in deciding whether a simple screen protector replacement or a full display replacement is necessary.
• Display Replacement: The technician will carefully detach the damaged display and replace it with a new one. This process involves specialized tools and techniques to avoid further damage to the device.
• Testing and Quality Control: Once the new display is installed, the technician will test the functionality of the screen, ensuring responsiveness to touch, accurate color reproduction, and overall display quality.

Galaxy note 7 display easily scratched – The cost of professional repair services can vary significantly depending on the location, the repair center’s reputation, and the availability of parts. It’s crucial to research and compare prices from different service providers before making a decision.

DIY Solutions

For minor scratches that don’t affect the screen’s functionality, DIY solutions can be a cost-effective alternative to professional repairs. However, it’s essential to exercise caution and proceed with care to avoid causing further damage to the device.

• Screen Protector: Applying a new screen protector can effectively hide minor scratches and provide additional protection against future damage. Ensure the protector is properly aligned and free of air bubbles for optimal results.
• Polishing Compound: Using a specialized polishing compound designed for phone screens can help reduce the visibility of shallow scratches. Apply the compound gently and in a circular motion, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Toothpaste: A common household remedy, toothpaste (especially the non-gel type) can be used to polish minor scratches. Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a soft cloth and rub it gently on the scratch. Rinse the area thoroughly with water afterward.

While DIY solutions can be effective for minor scratches, it’s crucial to remember that they may not completely remove the scratch. Additionally, applying excessive pressure or using abrasive materials can further damage the screen. It’s always advisable to consult a professional if you’re unsure about the best course of action.

Cost Comparison

The cost of repairing a scratched Note 7 display can vary depending on the chosen method.

• Professional Repair Services: Expect to pay a significant amount for professional repair services, ranging from $100 to $300 or more, depending on the complexity of the repair and the repair center’s pricing.
• DIY Solutions: DIY solutions are generally more affordable, with screen protectors costing around $10-$20 and polishing compounds costing a few dollars. However, these solutions may not completely eliminate the scratch.

Potential Risks and Limitations

Repairing a scratched display can come with certain risks and limitations:

• Data Loss: During a display replacement, there’s a potential risk of data loss. It’s crucial to back up your device’s data before any repair procedure.
• Reduced Screen Quality: Even with a professional repair, the replaced display might not have the same quality as the original, especially if it’s a generic replacement part.
• Warranty Void: Repairing a device outside of authorized service centers can void the manufacturer’s warranty.

The Galaxy Note 7’s easily scratched display was a frustrating issue for many users. While the use of Gorilla Glass provided a level of protection, it wasn’t enough to prevent scratches in everyday use. Understanding the reasons behind this susceptibility can help us make informed choices about how to protect our devices and prevent such issues in the future. Remember, a little care and attention can go a long way in keeping your phone’s display pristine and functional.

Remember the Galaxy Note 7? Its display was so prone to scratches, you’d swear it was made of butter. It’s like, who needs a screen protector when you can just use your keys as a makeshift sandpaper? Meanwhile, SolarCity is making a roof out of solar panels, solarcity is making a roof out of solar panels , which is pretty cool, right?

But I bet even that roof wouldn’t stand a chance against a Galaxy Note 7 owner’s pocket.