Smartphone screen protection: tempered glass vs. modern durable glass

The necessity of screen protectors for modern smartphones varies depending on the device's hardware and user habits. For older models like the iPhone 7 Plus, tempered glass remains a highly effective way to protect the screen from cracks and scratches, especially given the device's curved edges which can leave areas exposed to plastic films.

In contrast, high-end modern devices such as the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra utilize advanced materials like Corning Gorilla Armor 2, which offers significantly higher resistance to drops and scratches than traditional glass. While these modern screens are designed to withstand significant daily stress, they remain susceptible to abrasive materials like sand and dust. For these newer devices, a screen protector is often considered an optional extra rather than an essential requirement.