Does it really matter if iPhone 16 Pro could be glossier when you will probably have a case on?

In the US, iOS dominates the market with about 59%, while Android follows with 41%. Also, roughly 30% of iPhones get some kind of damage within a year, so having a protective case isn't a bad idea. There is no recent data on how many iPhone users use cases, but the latest suggests that about 70-80% do.

And yet, stats show that around 1 in 4 iPhone users have dealt with a cracked screen at least once (I'm guilty of two mishaps myself!). It's almost like a daily occurrence, isn't it? I mean, just take a quick glance around – you're bound to spot someone with a broken iPhone. Probably even multiple times!

iPhones are usually known for their durability and solid build quality, but how tough they are can vary based on things like the model, materials used, and how you treat them. Now, if you're thinking of pulling a JerryRigEverything and stress-testing your iPhone, well, let's just say you might not be too pleased with the results. However, as long as you're not deliberately dropping or mistreating it and wear a case, you should be good to go.

Rugged phones could be the middle ground

So, are we stuck with choosing between showing off our phones or keeping them safe? Maybe not. Some phone makers, including Samsung with its Galaxy XCover 6 Pro, Nokia with its Nokia XR20 or Motorola with its Motorola Defy, are trying to find that sweet spot.

They are making phones with tougher materials that can take a hit or two, which is why they have earned their spot on the list of the most durable smartphones in 2024. But, let's be real, we are not quite there yet where phones can go caseless without us worrying about them breaking.

Until we get there, we are playing a balancing act, weighing our desire for cool-looking phones against the practical need to protect them. Sure, some people go bold and case-free with their smartphones, and hats off to them (I've tried going without a case a couple of times, but let's just say my phone didn't fare too well).

Can my phone survive without a case?

While a completely case-free future might be on the horizon, it may not be a one-size-fits-all scenario. Users who prioritize extreme durability or rugged activities might still opt for specialized cases. But for the everyday user, a future of stunning, durable phones could mean a more connected and worry-free experience. So, how do we get there? Materials innovation might be key:

• Self-healing polymers: Phones could be crafted from materials that can repair minor scratches and scuffs automatically, maintaining their pristine look. Imagine a phone with a microscopic network of polymers that mend themselves upon contact with sharp objects.
• Diamondoid coatings: Imagine a phone display coated with a diamondoid film, mimicking the structure of a diamond but being lighter and more flexible. This would offer incredible scratch and shatter resistance, keeping your phone looking flawless.
• Liquid metal alloys: The phone's body could be made from a liquid metal alloy, allowing it to absorb impacts and redistribute force, preventing dents and cracks.
• Integrated grip textures: Phones wouldn't need bulky cases for grip. Imagine microscopic textures etched into the surface that provide a secure hold without compromising the sleek design.

And with phones lasting longer without needing protective cases, the environmental impact of discarded phone cases could be significantly reduced, which brings me to my next point.

Are your phone cases harming the planet?

There's one thing that's been bugging me, and maybe you've thought about it too – the environmental footprint of all these phone cases. With the world already drowning in plastic, have you ever stopped to consider the impact of all those plastic phone cases we are buying?

As we all aim to keep our smartphones snug and stylish, phone cases have morphed into more than just protectors – they are fashion statements. This fashion-forward thinking leads us to hoard cases to match every outfit, cranking up the demand and, unfortunately, the waste.

Now, I'm not saying we can stop this overnight, especially without some serious changes in regulations and industry practices, but we are not totally powerless. We can make more eco-friendly choices, opting for brands that prioritize sustainability, even if it means spending a few extra bucks. Remember, going cheap often costs more down the line, both for your wallet and the planet.

So, does the design matter if you have a case on your smartphone?

I think, yes, of course. Sure, you can not see it all the time, but you know it’s there. And yes, it's kind of funny how we chase after the hottest phone designs only to cover them up. But just as we evolve, so will our phones, reaching a point where they don't need to hide behind cases. Until then, we'll keep juggling our love for beauty with our need for practicality.

And hey, if your phone's design has slipped your mind, swing by for a reminder – our database pretty much spans every phone model you can think of. Joke aside, the vast array of case styles means you are sure to find one that really makes your smartphone design shine. Like, a transparent case can beautifully showcase a glossy phone, whereas a matte case could subtly tone down a shine you're not too fond of.

Feel free to tell us what you think about all this in the comments!