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Recently received the Phantom Skinz Full Body set and have gone through installation.
Here's the breakdown:
The Pros:
- The Screen Skin looks good and feels good. The extra drag vs. the stock glass is slight and the overall clarity is very good (doesn't have any noticeable detraction from the crisp, contrasty screen).
- The main screen skin and front overlays were fairly easy to apply and once dried have a very nice unobtrusive look
- Comes with 2 sets of skins
The Cons:
- included directions are WAY OFF from the install video on their site. Soaking times, how long to let it sit and dry, etc...
- Edge bubbling on every corner for the back overlays. Directions say to "cup the corner with palms and hold 30 seconds", but I've done it over and over again and they keep popping off after a short while
- A WHOLE LOT of wet work involved in applying these skins. Application involves soaking the skin in water first, then (as instructed) with your fingers fully wet, take the wet skin and put it wet onto the phone and then use the included credit card shaped "squeegy" to push out the extra water. Not so much a big deal for the screen skin, but getting that much water around and near the audio/mic/power and such ports while putting on the body skins is asking for trouble.
Final Thoughts
I imagine in some small (heck, maybe in large) part, the corner bubbling issue is due to me not applying the skin properly. But I'm not some clueless granny that doesn't know the difference between a mouse and a blackberry and the included instructions are vague in important places and almost completely different than the video instructions shown at their website (for example; The included instructions say to use warm water WITH SOAP)
Bottom line: Stick with just the screen skin, skip the full body.
The online video instructions say to use soap as well. IIRC, she said that at their facility, they use one drop of Johnson's baby shampoo per 32 oz of water.
I would avoid Phantom Skinz altogether. Here's the review I posted about my experience with one of them on my Moto Droid in the skins topic.
Phantom Skinz
I got a PS for my Moto Droid because I didn't want something as grippy as the Zagg. PS had great reviews and came with 2 full sets for the price of 1 zagg with 33% off on top of that ($16.50 in the end). The first installation of the screen got some dust and fuzz under it since I was OCD about getting it perfect, so I emailed them and they sent me a replacement for free no questions asked. I know it did come with two sets of protectors but I wanted to keep one as a backup still. Second installation was perfect. No dirt, dust, fuzz or finger prints. Screen was perfectly smooth (no orange peel) and the touch felt almost the same as the glass. Put the rest of the body on without a problem as well with just a few bubbles in some of the tougher spots. I was very impressed, but now a month later I am not so much. After daily use taking my phone in and out of my pocket (sometimes shared with keys) the skin is filled with knicks and wrinkles. While the film may not technically scratch, it is vulnerable to indentations and air bubbles forming which do not "self heal". Instead of scratching, it seems like the skin stretches in place, resulting in a wrinkle/groove with little marks that look like air bubbles underneath. Not only does it make the screen look dirty, but you feel them while using the touch screen. As I write this, I just dug my finger nail into the screen and tried to scratch it, leaving another permanent groove. Needless to say, I will be taking off the PS and throwing it in the trash. The rest of the body has surprisingly stayed pretty clean of wrinkles, so it may have something to do with its application on glass. I will put some pictures up when I get the chance this evening. Overall, I would not recommend PhantomSkinz. It looked and felt great for a couple weeks, but now every day I am finding more and more knicks and wrinkles and that is just unacceptable compared to others. This skin is NOT scratch proof like other comparable skins on the market! However, I will commend their customer service for being very helpful and quick to reply.
And here a pictures of what it looks like:
h ttp://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=5415251&postcount=44
(remove the space after the h, I can't post links yet)
Bottom line here as that they are smoother than other brands but scratch pretty easily. You should check back in on this topic in a month or two and see if your opinion has changed.
I applied the full body skin about a week ago. There's definitely a lot of water involved but most of the danger can be avoided with some caution. I used Q-tips to do a lot of the credit card work around the edges so that it soaked up the water it pushed out.
A good trick for the corners is to use some sealant/piping tape to hold them down. This is a lot better than using your hand for 30 seconds, and you can leave it there for as long as you want (I left the tape on mine for 2 days since I wasn't going anywhere that I needed to show off my phone, I figured why not? Now my corners are perfect).
So far I like PhantomSkinz because it wraps the corners a little better than the other skins. Bodyguardz is a little better in clarity and material. InvisibleShield has too much of the orange peel effect. Haven't had a chance to try BestSkinsEver.
As for detonation's review, it's too early for me to tell if I'll have the same problems, but I agree that the material doesn't seem on par with InvisibleShield or BodyGuardz. But since I still used the carrying case and treat my phone with much care even with the skin on, I don't think it'll be too much of a problem.
I recently got the phantom skinz full body set, after I read the instructions I thought that there was no way I was applying wet/soapy film to my N1, it just doesn't make any sense. Water/soap plus electronics? Its a recipe for disaster, besides the fact that I suck at arts and crafts type stuff just like this. I would imagine I would get water somewhere inside the device, and knowing me it would reach the many water detectors in the phone. It doesn't seem worth it, so I applied just the screen part sans water/soap, and needless to say it sucked big time, even when I got all the bubbles out.. it had a terrible gray haze on parts of the screen it was bad (maybe due to not using the water/soap method). Can any one suggest just a simple screen protector that doesn't' require to dunk your device in water?
boxmander said:
I recently got the phantom skinz full body set, after I read the instructions I thought that there was no way I was applying wet/soapy film to my N1, it just doesn't make any sense. Water/soap plus electronics? Its a recipe for disaster, besides the fact that I suck at arts and crafts type stuff just like this. I would imagine I would get water somewhere inside the device, and knowing me it would reach the many water detectors in the phone. It doesn't seem worth it, so I applied just the screen part sans water/soap, and needless to say it sucked big time, even when I got all the bubbles out.. it had a terrible gray haze on parts of the screen it was bad (maybe due to not using the water/soap method). Can any one suggest just a simple screen protector that doesn't' require to dunk your device in water?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dude... you BARELY have to use any water to get the screen to turn out right. Sorry you wasted your PS... but ask them for a replacement, and mail it to me! I do this **** with my eyes closed. It's really not rocket science, and you don't have to "dunk" your phone in water.
boxmander said:
I recently got the phantom skinz full body set, after I read the instructions I thought that there was no way I was applying wet/soapy film to my N1, it just doesn't make any sense. Water/soap plus electronics? Its a recipe for disaster, besides the fact that I suck at arts and crafts type stuff just like this. I would imagine I would get water somewhere inside the device, and knowing me it would reach the many water detectors in the phone. It doesn't seem worth it, so I applied just the screen part sans water/soap, and needless to say it sucked big time, even when I got all the bubbles out.. it had a terrible gray haze on parts of the screen it was bad (maybe due to not using the water/soap method). Can any one suggest just a simple screen protector that doesn't' require to dunk your device in water?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you didnt follow the instructions and it didnt work well for you? gtfo
boxmander said:
I recently got the phantom skinz full body set, after I read the instructions I thought that there was no way I was applying wet/soapy film to my N1, it just doesn't make any sense. Water/soap plus electronics? Its a recipe for disaster, besides the fact that I suck at arts and crafts type stuff just like this. I would imagine I would get water somewhere inside the device, and knowing me it would reach the many water detectors in the phone. It doesn't seem worth it, so I applied just the screen part sans water/soap, and needless to say it sucked big time, even when I got all the bubbles out.. it had a terrible gray haze on parts of the screen it was bad (maybe due to not using the water/soap method). Can any one suggest just a simple screen protector that doesn't' require to dunk your device in water?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try clairivue or martin fields. Just do a google search since I can't post links yet.
typ_ex said:
you didnt follow the instructions and it didnt work well for you? gtfo
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Click to collapse
LOL! i agree. i have had no issues at all with my phantomskinz- both on the magic and now my nexus- i'll admit i do suck at installing them but what i do is get a bowl o water, put a few drops of baby shampoo in swich it around a bit, then dunk the piece in there- hold it over bowl until excess is removed then you can put it on device- the soap/water allows you to move it into position easily and helps squeegee the bubbles....
i wouldnt blame a product because you didnt follow their instructions how to install it...
I actually prefer the bowl of soapy water to the sprays that come with other skins. Submerging it ensures the entire skin is lubed up, and the small amounts of drips on the device is harmless. Just let it dry out overnight before turning it on.
I think Martins is completely over priced. I tried BSE and Phantom and all works great. Once dried it is practically invisible with only the slightest orange peel effect. I'm pretty OCD and it is minimal enough that it doesn't bother me. What does bother is that both of the screen protectors are slightly shorter than the screen.
As for applying the phantom and drowning in water as people are saying I don't do that. I've put on enough of these to know you only need a slight amount. I use a spray and just mist the backing so that it is enough to be able to adjust when putting on but not dripping with water. I use a cloth to absorb the water on the edges as I push the bubbles/excess water out. Fairly easy process. It just takes a slow hand and patience.
pongalong said:
A good trick for the corners is to use some sealant/piping tape to hold them down. This is a lot better than using your hand for 30 seconds, and you can leave it there for as long as you want (I left the tape on mine for 2 days since I wasn't going anywhere that I needed to show off my phone, I figured why not? Now my corners are perfect).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok I have to ask: what is sealant / piping tape? And where do you buy that? Home Depot? Bed, Bath and Beyond?
Paul22000 said:
Ok I have to ask: what is sealant / piping tape? And where do you buy that? Home Depot? Bed, Bath and Beyond?
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Click to collapse
Some might know it as teflon tape, thread seal tape or plumbers tape. It's a thin white non-adhesive tape that you use on pipes/hoses to make connections water tight. Home Depot would have it or any hardware store - it's pretty common. Just cut a few good length pieces and wrap your phone up like a mummy on the difficult spots. It works well because it's stretchy, conforms to shape and naturally adheres to the phone skin.
pongalong said:
Some might know it as teflon tape, thread seal tape or plumbers tape. It's a thin white non-adhesive tape that you use on pipes/hoses to make connections water tight. Home Depot would have it or any hardware store - it's pretty common. Just cut a few good length pieces and wrap your phone up like a mummy on the difficult spots. It works well because it's stretchy, conforms to shape and naturally adheres to the phone skin.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
...and it's non-stick!
typ_ex said:
you didnt follow the instructions and it didnt work well for you? gtfo
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Click to collapse
Like I mentioned before, my application didn't work well cause I didn't follow the instructions. And I wasn't hating on PS, get a grip. Besides after some people posted about this topic I might give it another go, PS gave me two for one so I can redo it. Why are you here? Perhaps you should try posting things that are more constructive.
pongalong said:
Some might know it as teflon tape, thread seal tape or plumbers tape. It's a thin white non-adhesive tape that you use on pipes/hoses to make connections water tight. Home Depot would have it or any hardware store - it's pretty common. Just cut a few good length pieces and wrap your phone up like a mummy on the difficult spots. It works well because it's stretchy, conforms to shape and naturally adheres to the phone skin.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting. I'll definitely get some. Thanks for the tip.
Hmm... I'm going to go to Home Depot to buy some kind of special tape I've never heard of to wrap up my phone like a mummy in order to prevent the corners from lifting on my phone's skin protector. Phone enthusiast or what?
Phantom does have the best skins by far...
The trick to installation to make it perfect:
Use the Johnson's/water mix as they advised.
Ignore all of their other directions.
Peel off the piece you want to apply. Dryly.
Dip your fingers in the water and apply it to the skin using your fingers.
Once both sides of the skin are wet, use your fingers as a squeegee to pull off any excess water.
Apply the skin to your phone. Keep the skin sitting on your phone in it's original shape.
Use your fingers, not the applicator card, to squeegee out the air bubbles. You don't need to apply very much pressure at all. The bubbles move around extremely easily.
Now, let the skin dry for about 2 minutes. Once you notice the skin starting to cling to the phone a little harder, grab the ends that you need to wrap around the phone and stretch them into place. This is the key step. Stretching it makes it stick so much better, the corners align perfectly with the phone when you do this, and all the gaps left between the skin pieces when you don't stretch it are gone. The skin has to be stretched to fit the phone, otherwise the pieces will all be a little to small and the corners will blow.
Repeat with the other pieces.
Enjoy your sexily phantom skinned N1.
anyone with pics of this case ?
I just wanted to comment about Phantom Skinz because I have had a really good experience with them and I am going to get another set from them as soon as they release it for the HD2!
I got Phantom Skinz for a Nano about a year ago and it has been awesome! I bought the PS retail (they have a location in my area) so I only got one set, but I did it myself with no problems. I had to take it off for a warranty replacement on the Nano and I put the same skin back on the new Nano and it looks just as good as it did on the first application. It's awesome that it can be taken off and put back on again using only water.
I got GA for my G1, but it is the worst product ever. I had it professionally installed at a Ghost Armor location because I wanted it to be perfect for my baby. But it didn't even last a month before it started peeling! GA can only be applied once with a special solution (thats what the GA salespeople told me) and it can't be fixed with water like Phantom Skinz. Phantom Skinz has never actually peeled like the GA did, but at least I could fix PS with water if I needed to!
I literally had the full body GA skin replaced 4 times in the course of a year because it peeled so bad and I am not just talking the corners! I did everything they told me to; keep the phone in a case so it doesnt rub in your pocket, keep any liquid of the phone (durr), don't leave the skin in prolonged sunlight, blah bla blah.
It was $35 for the original GA skin and installation and then they charged me $10 labor for the "free warranty replacement" every time I had the skin redone. Oh, and they changed the GA product for my phone 3 times out of the 4 I got it replaced and the changes never fixed any of the problems I had with the skin. GA also yellowed really bad and actually got progressively worse over the course of their " improved product revisions". The last time I had the G1 wrapped the skin was a pretty moderate yellow in about a week...
The salespeople sucked me in every time with leading me to believe the GA skin for the G1 was revised and the problems were fixed. I spent way too much money on their crappy ass product!
Ghost Armor is an awful product! Please just stay the hell away from them!
There is no need to submerge anything in any fluid. I have installed clear skins on many devices by using soapy water. I dont spray it on the phone, I spray a small mist on the protector before applying. Trust me there is not enough water to damage anything because as i push out the bubble I wipe the water.
If you are concerned about it then remove the battery and wait a day like the other people have suggested. once the process is complete the skin will need to settle for a few days before it looks good.
I used some spray that came with a skin before and I did not like it compared to the soapy water MIST.
I also do not use the skin on touch screens because my finger drags on it compared to other screen protectors that are designed to protect the screen.
While similar to the other thread regarding the coating wearing off, I seem to be suffering a different problem with various Nexus S's I've gone through over the past two weeks. I'll do my best to describe the problem, but bear with me as I'll try to be as detailed as possible.
I typically keep my phone in one of three places. It's always either in my inside pocket of my pea coat, one of the angled pockets on the outside of the same coat, or it's in the right pocket of my slacks. It is never in these pockets with any other objects and has either been naked, in the Nexus One pouch, or in the G1 pouch as recommended by several other XDAers.
My first Nexus S formed a pattern right over the menu button on the bottom of the phone. They resembled scratches at first glance, but if you were to completely clean the phone with a microfiber cloth and some rubbing alcohol, they would disappear entirely. Even in most lighting situations, you would never be able to see the pattern that formed. It only became easily visible after I had used the phone and smudged it up with fingerprints. Thinking they were scuffs, I also tried to rub them out with other cloths and solutions, none of which helped whatsoever.
This pattern over the menu button drove me crazy enough that I exchanged it with Best Buy.
My second Nexus S did well for about a week until I noticed a similar pattern forming near the top of the phone by the earpiece. It was three or four slightly curved horizontal lines that all behaved just as the previous pattern did on my last Nexus S.
I traced the cause of these lines back to the G1 pouch as the inseam of the case was rubbing against the screen. Thus, I no longer use the pouch anymore.
Still within the holiday return period, I decided to exchange this model as well. I currently have a brand-spankin' new Nexus S with zero screen defects that I have been hesitant to put in ANY pouch or keep in ANY pocket.
I would opt for a screen protector at this point, but that really defeats the purpose of having the oleophobic coating in the first place. I also have the Tech21 d3o pouch and two of the generic Samsung pouches from Hong Kong set to arrive in the next couple weeks.
Has anybody else noticed this with their Nexus S? I would post pics but I returned both phones with the issue and I have not a camera that would have been able to capture such detail.
Stop using chemicals to clean your screen.
ikon8 said:
Stop using chemicals to clean your screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why? Is battery acid bad for it or something?
Mine has a spot where it kinda got messed up. but if you wipe the oils off that spot, you can't see it at all. It annoys me, and I've thought of exchanging it. But my thinking it's just going to happen on the next phone anyway. I don't want to exchange it for a phone that might really be defective, so for now I am trying to not think about it. After all, it's a phone, and over time it's gonna get dings and scratched anyway.... Just like a $50k sports car that you use every day. It's inevitable.
That's about where I'm at with this problem too, except I really didn't think cosmetic defects like this would happen within the first month!
I kept my Nexus One significantly longer than any other phone I've ever owned and the only cosmetic damage it ever incurred was when my girlfriend threw hers on the bed and it landed on mine. Even that incident only caused a minor scuff in the corner of the phone. The screen, Teflon, metal bezel, all of them remained perfect.
Yeah, I hear you. My droid 1 lasted me from launch date up until I got my nexus s. Never put a screen protector on it, just kept it in my pants pocket. It's been dropped, has a couple dings, but the screen is perfect. I cleaned it with my shirt, jeans or whatever.
I'm just hoping that if the coating on the nexus s gets worse and wears more, that it can be totally removed with no traces left behind. I don't really care too much about finger prints, as i'll just wipe them off.
if you pay top dollar for a phone, then you should take the extra steps to purchase proper cleaning solutions for your device. The reason why some people are experiencing this problem is because they are probably using solvents or abrasive cloths that damages the oleophobic coating. For example, like using rubbing alcohol. This stuff is just not wearing off, people are rubbing it off.
Sent from my Nexus S
@j.bruha: maybe your problem could depends on your after shave (i.e. on your second phone that had problems on top) or on an hand care cream (even too much aggressive)... I think it's very strange that you have the same problem with 3 terminals in less than a week.
Completely unrelated, but how do you like the Tech 21 pouch? Would you mind starting a thread with a couple pictures? I know a lot of people have been asking about Tech 21 and their d3o stuff.
princeasi said:
if you pay top dollar for a phone, then you should take the extra steps to purchase proper cleaning solutions for your device. The reason why some people are experiencing this problem is because they are probably using solvents or abrasive cloths that damages the oleophobic coating. For example, like using rubbing alcohol. This stuff is just not wearing off, people are rubbing it off.
Sent from my Nexus S
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's not true at all. Many people who have had these issues said they never used any chemicals or liquids to clean the screen.
That is correct. These "chemicals" were used after the lines started forming. To be more descriptive about said chemicals, I used medical alcohol squares and wipes designed specifically for phones that I picked up from work to try to clean the screen after I noticed the damage. These same chemicals were used on all of the Nexus Ones that came through my household and none of them ever showed any signs of damage at all.
As I said in the original post, these are solid lines that seem to have shown up due to something pressing against the phone either repeatedly or hard enough to make these inconsistencies, despite the fact that all of the phones have been exceptionally well taken care of. Again, I won't call them scratches since they only show up in certain lighting conditions and after smudges start to form from usage. I've seen scratches on a Vibrant I borrowed before I bought the Nexus S and this is totally different. The only similarity is that they're straight lines and not entire sections or hairline scratches like the back of the phone collects too easily.
booyakasha said:
Completely unrelated, but how do you like the Tech 21 pouch? Would you mind starting a thread with a couple pictures? I know a lot of people have been asking about Tech 21 and their d3o stuff.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As soon as it arrives, I'll fire up a new thread with some pictures of it. It's supposed to arrive sometime next week.
Luxferro said:
That's not true at all. Many people who have had these issues said they never used any chemicals or liquids to clean the screen.
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Click to collapse
This is what I said " they are probably using solvents or abrasive cloths that damages the oleophobic coating." It's already proven the NS doesn't have gorilla glass so if you continuously go thru your day without a screen protector then micro-scratches will occur through daily usage of taking it in and out of your pockets, purses, messenger bag, etc. If you're using harsh solvents to clean your screen, then you risk damaging the screen. If you're using abrasive cloths, you risk damaging the screen. Even constant swyping with your finger, eventually the dust particles will scratch it up, plain and simple. The first thread I saw of this, you can tell from the swirls on the screen, more so than not, he rubbed something abrasive or harsh chemicals into his screen and screwed it up himself.
Sent from my Nexus S
princeasi said:
This is what I said " they are probably using solvents or abrasive cloths that damages the oleophobic coating." It's already proven the NS doesn't have gorilla glass so if you continuously go thru your day without a screen protector then micro-scratches will occur through daily usage of taking it in and out of your pockets, purses, messenger bag, etc. If you're using harsh solvents to clean your screen, then you risk damaging the screen. If you're using abrasive cloths, you risk damaging the screen. Even constant swyping with your finger, eventually the dust particles will scratch it up, plain and simple. The first thread I saw of this, you can tell from the swirls on the screen, more so than not, he rubbed something abrasive or harsh chemicals into his screen and screwed it up himself.
Sent from my Nexus S
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you work for best buy?...lol
j.bruha said:
While similar to the other thread regarding the coating wearing off, I seem to be suffering a different problem with various Nexus S's I've gone through over the past two weeks. I'll do my best to describe the problem, but bear with me as I'll try to be as detailed as possible.
I typically keep my phone in one of three places. It's always either in my inside pocket of my pea coat, one of the angled pockets on the outside of the same coat, or it's in the right pocket of my slacks. It is never in these pockets with any other objects and has either been naked, in the Nexus One pouch, or in the G1 pouch as recommended by several other XDAers.
My first Nexus S formed a pattern right over the menu button on the bottom of the phone. They resembled scratches at first glance, but if you were to completely clean the phone with a microfiber cloth and some rubbing alcohol, they would disappear entirely. Even in most lighting situations, you would never be able to see the pattern that formed. It only became easily visible after I had used the phone and smudged it up with fingerprints. Thinking they were scuffs, I also tried to rub them out with other cloths and solutions, none of which helped whatsoever.
This pattern over the menu button drove me crazy enough that I exchanged it with Best Buy.
My second Nexus S did well for about a week until I noticed a similar pattern forming near the top of the phone by the earpiece. It was three or four slightly curved horizontal lines that all behaved just as the previous pattern did on my last Nexus S.
I traced the cause of these lines back to the G1 pouch as the inseam of the case was rubbing against the screen. Thus, I no longer use the pouch anymore.
Still within the holiday return period, I decided to exchange this model as well. I currently have a brand-spankin' new Nexus S with zero screen defects that I have been hesitant to put in ANY pouch or keep in ANY pocket.
I would opt for a screen protector at this point, but that really defeats the purpose of having the oleophobic coating in the first place. I also have the Tech21 d3o pouch and two of the generic Samsung pouches from Hong Kong set to arrive in the next couple weeks.
Has anybody else noticed this with their Nexus S? I would post pics but I returned both phones with the issue and I have not a camera that would have been able to capture such detail.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Off topic but how long do we have to exchange the Nexus S
Android Touch said:
Off topic but how long do we have to exchange the Nexus S
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Best Buy's return period was extended until January 31st for everything purchased during the holiday season. If you bought it recently, you have 30 days from the date of purchase.
Luxferro said:
Do you work for best buy?...lol
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Click to collapse
If you must know....read a few of my post in this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=877497 and i'm sure you're intelligent enough to make a calculated guess.
Great thinking outside the box. Maybe he is shaving with Occam's razor? HAR HAR!
syncro said:
@j.bruha: maybe your problem could depends on your after shave (i.e. on your second phone that had problems on top) or on an hand care cream (even too much aggressive)... I think it's very strange that you have the same problem with 3 terminals in less than a week.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure if this is the same thing happening to anyone, but this has happened on two out of the four phones I have had (others had touch screen issues, right side of screen would stop responding) Basically what happens is after about 4 days a area developes on the screen that looks just a little darker than the rest of the screen. If I touch it, it leaves a finger print. If I wipe it, the print kinda disapears, but there is still a very faint dark mark. I have only used a microfiber cloth to clean all of my phones, and I've never had this issue with any of my other phones including my Nexus one and Vibrant.
As you can see on this phone it forms in the shape of a tear drop. My other phone it happened next to the ear piece and was much bigger.
IMG_1535
IMG_1539
Curious to see if anyone is having this issue.
j.bruha said:
While similar to the other thread regarding the coating wearing off, I seem to be suffering a different problem with various Nexus S's I've gone through over the past two weeks. I'll do my best to describe the problem, but bear ....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I'm having the same issue as you have. It's happened two of the four phones I've been through. The first time near the ear piece, on the new one, on the bottom left of the actual screen.
Does any of you proud X owners think that if one applies the a screen protector incorrectly (bits of dust between the protector and the screen) or something similiar, that it could cause the screen to scratch, having a sand-like effect? I'm really paranoid about the screen when it's naked...
btw. how the hell am i supposed to put on a protector without air bubbles? Seems impossible.
I dunno about the first question. But you're supposed to be able to put it on using a credit card to smooth it out as you apply it. In saying that, I've never done it successfully
Sent from my One XL using XDA Premium
lukas_1 said:
Does any of you proud X owners think that if one applies the a screen protector incorrectly (bits of dust between the protector and the screen) or something similiar, that it could cause the screen to scratch, having a sand-like effect? I'm really paranoid about the screen when it's naked...
btw. how the hell am i supposed to put on a protector without air bubbles? Seems impossible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I doubt having anything under the screen protector would harm these screens. The junk stuck under it isn't going to move as it's stuck in the adhesive.
The best way to apply them (for me anyways) is to clean the screen with an LCD cleaner (or make your own), use tape to blot up anything else, wipe again.
Next--I have found by taking the first layer of the film protecting the screen protector upside down works best. Dust and debris can fall and settle on the sticky side. Then carefully apply. As long as you don't touch the adhesive side, you can pick it up and keep applying the protector until you get it right. You want the top of the protector just about even with the AT&T globe.
Enjoy.....
By using tape do you mean using scotch tape, sticking it on the screen and pulling off?
I'll try washing my screen protector, drying it up, cleaning the screen with MF cloth, taping it up and then hopefully I'll be able to apply it perfectly! :fingers-crossed:
lukas_1 said:
Does any of you proud X owners think that if one applies the a screen protector incorrectly (bits of dust between the protector and the screen) or something similiar, that it could cause the screen to scratch, having a sand-like effect?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you trap a particle of dust under the protector that has a hardness greater than the screen, yes, it will eventually scratch the screen in that spot.
However: Gorilla Glass has a Mohs hardness of around 9, which means there is not a lot in the mineral world that can scratch it. The likelihood of your trapping something like that under the screen protector, if you apply it correctly, is not great.
You should be able to remove a particle big enough to scratch your phone from the screen protector without having to wash the protector. I think you would ruin the screen protector if you wash it.
I've used packaging tape as it leaves no residue. Done it for years before with iPhones before owning an Android.
Sent from my HTC One X using xda app-developers app
When you apply your screen protector, do it in a washroom with a hot shower running. The steamy air will prevent dust from getting under it.
I will try that out. I always seem to get a bit of dust or lint on the corner of my screen protectors.
flar2 said:
When you apply your screen protector, do it in a washroom with a hot shower running. The steamy air will prevent dust from getting under it.
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Just don't wait too long, not sure if the humidity sensor would get affected.
The way I do it: obviously, I clean the screen then remove completely the clear layer from under to make sure no dust will fall in. I'm holding the screen protector with the tips of my fingers on the sides and gently bend it across (the long) median then align with the phone's screen (this is the hard part). Put the screen protector on the screen at this stge the contact area will be the median line, and then use a credit card and work your way to the eges (one side at a time). I never got any bubbles under this way. I caught some dust particles few times though. It takes patience but it pays off, currently I have no dust or bubbles on it.
Sent from my HTC One X using xda app-developers app
iElvis said:
If you trap a particle of dust under the protector that has a hardness greater than the screen, yes, it will eventually scratch the screen in that spot.
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Click to collapse
If the particle is trapped in one place and can't move, I don't see how it can cause a scratch.
Plus, if any dust gets on the screen during the application process (as long as you've done a halfway decent job), its probably airborne. So its not grit or sand or anything like that (which would just fall to the ground instantly) but more likely skin, ash, etc.
A little preparation and a few tricks will go a long way to a good screen protector install. My process is:
1) Use a wet apply protector. Don't know why, but I've had vastly better results (no dust under protector) with wet apply rather than dry ones. I got to the point where I can do a dry type almost flawlessly, but only after lots of practice and a great amount of care. But even so, there still tends to be a dust particle or two. With wet apply, the first one I ever tried was perfectly dust free with little effort, and the subsequent ones also.
2) Before starting, examine the protector and see how it fits on the phone. With the backing still on the protector, place it on the phone's screen and match up the openings and edges to familiarize yourself.
3) As previously mentioned, use steam to pull dust out of the air. I run a hot shower for 5-10 minutes, then apply the protector in the bathroom. It won't eliminate all the dust, but makes a big difference.
4) Wipe the screen off with a micro-fiber cloth (often included with better quality wet apply protectors).
5) Blow off the screen with a can of compressed air (the kind used to dust electronics and whatnot) to get rid of any remaining dust.
6) Spray the application solution. Quickly apply the protector. As another mentioned, don't hold the sticky side up after you take the backing off, or it will instantly catch dust. Put the protector on quickly, don't let the sticky side touch anything but the screen. Handle the protector as little as possible, and by the edges.
7) Squeegee the protector down with a credit card (make sure the edge of the card is smooth) or some protectors will include a rubber squeegee. Blot the excess moisture at the edges. Then leave the phone alone while it dries.
The best investment for my smartphone has been Ghost Armor. I have spent so much money on packs of screen protectors. A couple years ago I decided $45 was worth it if I only needed to do it once a year. You won't regret it, and you don't have to install it.
Npsacobra said:
The best investment for my smartphone has been Ghost Armor. I have spent so much money on packs of screen protectors. A couple years ago I decided $45 was worth it if I only needed to do it once a year. You won't regret it, and you don't have to install it.
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I've also heard horror stories about peoples phones not working after they are done or the screen not functioning afterwards. And since you sign an agreement they aren't liable
No thank you
Sent from my One X using Tapatalk 2
Npsacobra said:
The best investment for my smartphone has been Ghost Armor. I have spent so much money on packs of screen protectors. A couple years ago I decided $45 was worth it if I only needed to do it once a year. You won't regret it, and you don't have to install it.
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Click to collapse
I replace about 3 screen protectors a year (bought from amazon clear ones, 3 for $1.99). Other than a little rainbow effect when the screen is off, no regrets looks just like glass. I've been through many protectors before (ridiculously many on my first 'smartphones' rip moto ming, touchpro 1&2) but I can't justify the cost anymore, I'd rather have none (since I change my device every 8-12 months).
Sent from my HTC One X using xda app-developers app
I went with ghost armor myself, they installed for like 22 bucks.
No issues to report.
WR
Sent by WR's O/C'd One-XL on CR-V
Npsacobra said:
The best investment for my smartphone has been Ghost Armor. I have spent so much money on packs of screen protectors. A couple years ago I decided $45 was worth it if I only needed to do it once a year. You won't regret it, and you don't have to install it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Screen protectors that come in packs are crap. The higher quality kind that cost $15 or so (Skinomi, Zag, etc) are in a different class. I've had a Skinomi on my One X since release (May), and one on my Flyer for almost a year and a half. Both are still looking great.
Sent from my HTC One X using xda app-developers app
I've never used a screen protector. Don't like the feel of them. This phone has great glass. I'm a mechanic and I keep my phone in my pocket all day (screen towards my leg of course) and not one scratch
Sent from my HTC One XL using xda app-developers app
I use Xtremeguard. Wet application and every time I get a perfect install. No bubbles no particles.
Sent from my HTC One XL using Tapatalk 2
charlieb620 said:
I use Xtremeguard. Wet application and every time I get a perfect install. No bubbles no particles.
Sent from my HTC One XL using Tapatalk 2
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Was gonna say the same bout my Zagg...love it! Wet application and a squeegee, works perfect every time. The wet app also can aide with alignment if you don't get it just right, you can still move it before you squeegee.
Sent from my HTC One XL using xda premium
Not sure if this is still relevant, but I will put a vote for Ghost Armor as well. I have it for all my devices and it's like there's nothing there. Crystal clear and screen responsiveness is great. Had Zagg before and the orange peel feel and stickiness made me remove it. Those cheap packs aren't great either, they scratch up very very quickly.
My Flip 3 is about nine months old. Enclosed are two pictures, one from midnight on July 4, the second from 11:30 the next morning (noon-ish, July 4). The device was left open overnight because I was backing up my files to a USB stick in preparation for Samsung's fix of the screen. You can see the de-lamination of the factory-installed screen protector spread overnight from one-half the screen, across then entire fold-area, to encompass the entire screen, in less than 12 hours. There was no damage to the screen before the de-lamination started two days ago (July 2). The first indication was a tiny spontaneous de-lamination at the far right edge where the screen folds.
The phone is lovingly cared for, never dropped, no tears, no scratches on the protective film, no water exposure, battery-saver (85%) on, slow-chaage always on, etc... The phone is otherwise in "like new" condition. Samsung support recommends a local "UBreakIFix" store for the repair. I'll let you guys know how the repair goes.
So the "cost" for using this phone, so far, is $100 a month. $900 divided by 9 months, before it's now so fragile it can't be safely used. Wow.
That sucks.
Another dropped ball from Samsung.
This was predictable. Samsung exceeded the limits of the plastics and adhesive system. It is a high risk technical venture and they likely will never have the durability most would like.
As long as the screen underneath isn't cracked/loose, it should be fixable by removing the plastic screen protector and applying your own
buru898 said:
As long as the screen underneath isn't cracked/loose, it should be fixable by removing the plastic screen protector and applying your own
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Yeah, the phone is in perfect condition, except for the protected coming off. If it were out of warranty I'd probablly try to fix it myself.
Interestingly, the local Samsung-authorized repair sites near me are taking one look at the phone and saying (even before they look at it), "No, we don't fix those. Check one of the other repair sites.... ." They say they'd need to replace the entire screen, rather than peel/apply a new protector. I'm not sure I'm comfortable with such an involved process being done by "just anybody." This phone is just so intricate it's hard to imagine a local repair store having the experience needed to "cut open the glued bits, avoid cutting the cables, replacing the screen, and gluing everything back together so it's secure and waterproof."
If Samsung has to fix it themselves then if the phone fails again they have no one but themselves to blame.
Does anyone here have experience with Samsung replacing their phone screen?
I took off the original screen protector about 4 weeks ago. It had no damage, but curiosity beat me and I wanted to try the real, naked screen
It felt sooooooo goooood! Smooth, no fingerprints, brighter, touch nav was better, no rainbow effect ect.
Went naked for over 3 weeks and no scratches or anything. But, a couple of days ago I applied myself the whitestone film. Easy to apply and It's better then samsungs.
So, had a nice adventure
I've read in many places that Samsung will honor the warranty even after removing the plastic screen. Double check on that, but I highly recommend replacing it
Had mine for barely a month before I couldn't deal with all the fingerprints and ugly feeling of the screen
YouTube videos are your friend for gauging the difficulty and seeing the process. Helped give me the courage to do it
wpscully said:
Interestingly, the local Samsung-authorized repair sites near me are taking one look at the phone and saying (even before they look at it), "No, we don't fix those. Check one of the other repair sites.... ." They say they'd need to replace the entire screen, rather than peel/apply a new protector. I'm not sure I'm comfortable with such an involved process being done by "just anybody." This phone is just so intricate it's hard to imagine a local repair store having the experience needed to "cut open the glued bits, avoid cutting the cables, replacing the screen, and gluing everything back together so it's secure and waterproof."
If Samsung has to fix it themselves then if the phone fails again they have no one but themselves to blame.
Does anyone here have experience with Samsung replacing their phone screen?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That should tell you something.
Getting it right on the first or even second shot may prove challenging. Wet apply hydrocell's are relatively easy, one sided adhesive ones like the stock ones are a true pain.
Anyone who has removed the stock protector can tell you the flaw that causes it. They are using a rigid protector with a weak adhesive.
The folding aspect has allowed Samsung to make the process sound much more complex, but it's installing a protector like any other phone. The only difference is taking more care to smooth it into the crease. Let it sit open for a day and try to take it light for the next few. Almost any third-party protector that is decent as a screen protector will work.
The stock protector is poorly designed, but it's not some magical specialty item. It is a slightly nicer version of the film Samsung wraps all their phones with so they look new out of the box.
Screen is fine, right?
Just like peeling off a bandaid IMO. ;-)
I have decided to send the phone back to Samsung for the replacement of the screen protector. They did not require a phone factory reset for this work. I'll report the quality of the repair work when the phone is returned. I'm hoping it will look "factory fresh". But I've also ordered an aftermarket protector in case I need to fix the fix.
wpscully said:
They did not require a phone factory reset for this work.
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Click to collapse
They may not have required you to do one, but I hope you did a backup. It doesn't always mean they won't end up doing one, planned or not.
Does anyone have a source to buy a new screen protector that isn't too rigid or thick? There are tons of options online but I'm not finding an OEM option to buy. But it sounds like some of you may have found a better option anyway. Any links would be appreciated!
drosenau said:
Does anyone have a source to buy a new screen protector that isn't too rigid or thick? There are tons of options online but I'm not finding an OEM option to buy. But it sounds like some of you may have found a better option anyway. Any links would be appreciated!
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I've used Skinomi since my Pixel 2 XL days. The wet application process makes sense and the self repair screen makes it always look new. It's what I'm currently using on the Zflip
When I had mine before I got rid of it, I replaced the screen protector with a liquid one. Worked very well up until the actual screen started cracking on the crease. Keep in mind no drops and everyday use. For the 3rd generation it's definitely sad to see
Dr.Lost said:
When I had mine before I got rid of it, I replaced the screen protector with a liquid one. Worked very well up until the actual screen started cracking on the crease. Keep in mind no drops and everyday use. For the 3rd generation it's definitely sad to see
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The radius of curve is too extreme.
twistedumbrella said:
... but it's installing a protector like any other phone. The only difference is taking more care to smooth it into the crease. Let it sit open for a day and try to take it light for the next few...
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Click to collapse
Thank you so much for this helpful hint. I previously purchased a Whitestone Dome screen protector with install jig. It went on perfectly, but when I folded the phone 30 minutes later it delaminated in the crease. I threw that $20 piece in the trash. Nowhere in the instructions or installation video did it say to wait a full day. Based on your input I installed the same kit again, waited a day before carefully folding the phone and, bam, works like a champ!
phil1737 said:
Thank you so much for this helpful hint. I previously purchased a Whitestone Dome screen protector with install jig. It went on perfectly, but when I folded the phone 30 minutes later it delaminated in the crease. I threw that $20 piece in the trash. Nowhere in the instructions or installation video did it say to wait a full day. Based on your input I installed the same kit again, waited a day before carefully folding the phone and, bam, works like a champ!
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UV cured adhesive once fully cured is at its full strength. No additional time is needed.
Redirect Notice
Failure: incomplete cleaning; contaminated bonding surfaces, incorrect application (a thinner layer is better), or incomplete curing.
I used this one:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09LV43G8M/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Not the Seesaw UV curing machine whatever thingy. But my second attempt worked fine. Thanks for your feedback.
phil1737 said:
I used this one:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09LV43G8M/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Not the Seesaw UV curing machine whatever thingy. But my second attempt worked fine. Thanks for your feedback.
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Yeah I have never had an easy time with either of those types of adhesive systems*. Hydrocell wet apply works best on non-folding screens for me but may not be ideal for a foldable.
*Whitestone sent the wrong screen in the right box so I never did install it. They were a complete offshore nightmare to deal with. The "new" one I received had been incorrectly reboxed. They caused me quit a bit of trouble... and never even apologized for the inconvenience. So free advertising for them.
phil1737 said:
I used this one:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09LV43G8M/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Not the Seesaw UV curing machine whatever thingy. But my second attempt worked fine. Thanks for your feedback.
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Click to collapse
Glad to hear it worked out in the end. There is somewhat of a curing period with any adhesive, but rigid protectors will still separate over time. Given how flimsy those are, it will be a lot longer than the stock one anyway.
If you use a UV one, longer is not always better. The catch to UV activated adhesive is the same as UV resin. It is on a parabola where it will hit peak adhesion and then actually begin to break down. It's best to follow the exact times provided and then let it get some sunlight to finish off curing.
P.S. Whatever you do, do NOT use a liquid adhesive protector on this phone. It's not an S series or Note where the panel is flush with the case. It's an aluminum body wrapped OVER the screen. While they do claim it's water resistant, getting adhesive under that edge can eventually lead to pressure on the edges that will damage the screen and cause it to fracture.
With my P7P due later today, I looked for an alternative to the Whitestone Dome, which is not yet available (and which, never having installed one, I want to read reviews before making a purchase decision). My choice, which I now have, came down to the AACL Hybrid Film screen protector (whose price has gone up $2 since I ordered it on October 10). If I like it enough, I might keep it even if the Whitestone gets the highly-favorable reviews some expect.
In reviewing AACL installation information, I noticed for the first time that AACL refers to its film material as a "hydrogel". See the second photograph down at the Amazon webpage: "5H Hybrid. Abrasion-resistant, scratch-resistant, stain-resistant, and smooth polymeric nano-materials are attached to the surface of the Hydrogel membrane." (Emphasis added). I'd never encountered the word before, and my own limited websearching hasn't come up with much.
I have run across suggestions, however, that hydrogel screen protectors, if only because of their thinness (AACL puts the thickness of its protector at 0.18 mm), may not be very protective of the phone's screen in the event of a drop. As this is not something I can test directly without dropping my phone, I'm writing to ask whether someone more knowledgeable than I has information to help me decide whether I should be looking for an alternative to the AACL while I await availability and reviews of the Whitestone?
TIA
Whitestone is an offshore pain with lousy customer support. Sent me the wrong protector in the right box. Cost me a lot of time and trouble, fk them.
Hygrocell protectors rock especially for curved displays. Last 6 months or more, easier to apply.
All I use on my N10+'s. Your case should always be your primary protection and have raised display guards.
The display must be completely dust free. A bathroom with a hot shower running works well to kill Airborne dust.
Wet your finger before handling the back of the protector. Center it and work the air out from the center, don't lose your alignment as it will want slide at first. Do the curved areas last,hold down for 3-20 seconds with microfiber cloth to get get it to take if needed. Spray a little bit more solution on trouble spots if needed. Keep working it until air bubble free and seated.
Allow time to set up before using, high ambient temperatures speed this up. I go for a fast charge to raise the temperature. Gorilla IQ Sheilds are inexpensive.
blackhawk said:
Whitestone is an offshore pain with lousy customer support. Sent me the wrong protector in the right box. Cost me a lot of time and trouble, fk them.
Hygrocell protectors rock especially for curved displays. Last 6 months or more, easier to apply.
All I use on my N10+'s. Your case should always be your primary protection and have raised display guards.
The display must be completely dust free. A bathroom with a hot shower running works well to kill Airborne dust.
Wet your finger before handling the back of the protector. Center it and work the air out from the center, don't lose your alignment as it will want slide at first. Do the curved areas last,hold down for 3-20 seconds with microfiber cloth to get get it to take if needed. Spray a little bit more solution on trouble spots if needed. Keep working it until air bubble free and seated.
Allow time to set up before using, high ambient temperatures speed this up. I go for a fast charge to raise the temperature. Gorilla IQ Sheilds are inexpensive.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for the quick response. While I'll continue to wait-and-see on Whitestone, I take comfort from the fact that I will be using a case. Also, the AACL screen protector uses UV, but not separately-added glue, to complete the installation. Regarding running showers: yes, I've always installed screen protectors in the bathroom with the shower running hot.
I got a cheaper version of the Whitestone to try out from IMBZBK on Amazon- will see how it compares to WSD, but it was like half price and exact same offering
RebDovid said:
Thank you for the quick response. While I'll continue to wait-and-see on Whitestone, I take comfort from the fact that I will be using a case. Also, the AACL screen protector uses UV, but not separately-added glue, to complete the installation. Regarding running showers: yes, I've always installed screen protectors in the bathroom with the shower running hot.
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Click to collapse
You're welcome. A new phone is fun... but determining what to use for protection is a pain.
My N10+ has taken some rough tumbles including scraps across the display on the factory protector which then had to be replaced, no damage*. With a good case a good plastic protector works well. The N10+ has no display scratches after 3 years of heavy usage. Less issues with case inference too. The biggest issue is that one speck of dust that ruins a perfect installation meh.
*not the last time this kind of contact happened. So this type of protector provides adequate protection most times. I never take a drop lightly but they happen. Without the Bolt case this phone be a mess today. The Zizo Bolt offers great protection but they aren't any for your model as of yet, I believe.
aaronc_98 said:
I got a cheaper version of the Whitestone to try out from IMBZBK on Amazon- will see how it compares to WSD, but it was like half price and exact same offering
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Any feedback on that imbzbk alternative solution? Is that a different manufacturer or a different product from Whitestone?
niko26 said:
Any feedback on that imbzbk alternative solution? Is that a different manufacturer or a different product from Whitestone?
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After five days, I’m quite pleased with the IMBZBK. First, although I had difficulty visualizing the installation-never having used LOCA before-and had to watch the video several times, including during the installation, the process actuallly is straightforward. The screen went on without any bubbles and without any overspill of the LOCA. Having done it once, I think I would find future similar installations fairly easy.
Second, with LOCA it’s vital that one install on a flat surface. IMBZBK helps by including a bubble level in the frame that holds the phone during the installation.
Third, so far screen sensitivity is pretty good. I’d estimate that the phone responds to my fingerprint on first press more than 90% of the time and the glass feels smooth.
After initially purchasing and detesting the SuperShieldz protector because of it's thick black adhesive and it's complete lack of fingerprint enrollment, I took a leap of faith and bought the IMBZBK.
The install process is pretty straightforward, you just have to be meticulous and follow directions correctly. I suggest watching the video twice before you order and then once just before you go to install so you're familiar with the process.
After install, my fingerprint registered on the first try and I have to say that the entire surface responds to my touch better than 98% of the time. The only area that decreases it from 100% response is the bottom navbar area and I'm not sure why - there was no dust and no bubbles in the glue, but hey, I'll take it because it's FANTASTIC!!!