Smartphones have become indispensable tools in many people’s professional and personal lives. These mobile devices let you stay connected and organized at work, at home, and on the go. While smartphones are popular because of their portability, this aspect also makes them prone to physical damage. Having to repair or replace a damaged smartphone can be expensive. Plus, you run the risk of losing your data. So, it is a good idea to take a few precautions.
Here are four ways you can protect your smartphone from physical damage:
1. Get a Screen Protector
Modern smartphones typically include scratch- and impact-resistant screens made from Gorilla Glass or something similar. However, these screens are not indestructible, so you might consider getting a screen protector. That way, if your keys scratch your smartphone’s screen when the phone is in your pocket or handbag, you can simply get a new protector. It is much easier and cheaper to replace the screen protector than the phone’s built-in screen. Plus, many screen protectors include an oil-resistant coating to help reduce fingerprints and smudges.
2. Use a Case
The small size of smartphones is both a blessing and a curse. While your phone conveniently fits into pockets, it can easily fall out of them. Similarly, finding a spot on your desk to put the phone down is not a problem, but you can easily knock it off.
Getting a case can help protect your smartphone from these types of accidents. There are many different types of cases and levels of protection available to match your specific needs. For example, bumper cases protect the sides, where most impact occurs. Full cases enclose the entire phone and often include a screen protector. You can even get cases with built-in batteries that provide additional power for when your smartphone’s built-in battery dies.
3. Keep Your Smartphone Dry
Smartphone manufacturers are increasingly offering water-resistant smartphones. Although these phones are not completely waterproof, they can handle rain or a dive into a puddle.
If your smartphone is not water-resistant, you should take measures to protect it if there is a chance it could get wet. Keeping it inside your briefcase or handbag can be a sufficient way to keep your smartphone dry, especially when walking in the rain or snow. If that is not an option or if there is a high likelihood that what you are doing will get your phone wet, you might consider buying a water-resistant or waterproof case.
4. Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Extremely hot or cold temperatures can damage your smartphone. Leaving it in excessive heat or cold for a long time can hurt the battery and the device’s internal components, potentially leading to data loss, shortened battery life, or even the need to replace the phone. Extreme cold also causes some of the smartphone’s parts to become more rigid, leaving the device more susceptible to damage from impact.
You can avoid damage due to extreme temperatures with common sense. For example, if it is a very hot day, do not leave your smartphone sitting in the sun or in an unattended parked car for a long time. Similarly, if it is a bitter cold day, do not leave it in your car or even an outer pocket of your coat or jacket. Instead, put it in an inside pocket so that your body heat can keep it warm.
If your phone does get exposed to extreme heat or cold, bring it inside and gradually let your phone return to room temperature. This is especially important if the device is cold because going from hot to cold too quickly can cause condensation to build up inside of the device, possibly causing water damage.
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About CHIPS Computer Services
CHIPS Computer Services is an award winning Managed Services Provider specializing in help businesses increase efficiencies and profits by levering properly managed technology. To learn how CHIPS can help your business, email us at sales@chipscs.com to schedule no cost business technology assessment.
