As smartphones have transformed from simple communication devices to essential tools for navigation, entertainment, productivity, and much more, so too have their vulnerabilities –and the consequences of damage have become more severe. Now central to how we work, connect, and play, a broken smartphone can significantly disrupt daily life.

For more than 12 years, Allstate Protection Plans has conducted its well-known Breakability Test, in which robots drop, bend, dunk, and fold the latest smartphones to assess their durability. These tests have uncovered evolving risks, providing valuable insights into each generation's unique vulnerabilities.

Liquid damage: From major risk to minor worry

Without waterproofing technology, even a minor spill or accidental drop in water could wreak havoc on a phones internal components. In a 2012 survey, liquid damage accounted for 18% of smartphone damage. In 2014, the iPhone 6 struggled being dunked for just 10 seconds in less than a foot of water. However, just five years later in 2019, the iPhone 11 remained functional after being submerged by Allstate Protection Plans' DunkBot for 30 minutes in 5 feet of water.

Thanks to advancements like IP68 ratings and waterproof casings, modern smartphones, such as the latest Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy can be exposed to water for extended periods without harm.

The foldable phone: A form factor comeback

While foldable phones first entered the market as early as 2008 with Nokia's "Morph" concept, it wasn't until 2019 that foldable devices made a proper resurgence. Despite initial scepticism, foldable phones are proving to be surprisingly durable. Devices like the Samsung Galaxy Fold can endure up to 200,000 folds, or roughly three years of regular use, with only minor issues like pixel damage or hinge wear. This represents a significant engineering leap, pushing the boundaries of what a smartphone can be.

Bendgate: A bending reality for slim phones

In 2015, Apple's iPhone 6 Plus made headlines for its susceptibility to bending under pressure, particularly when placed in pockets. This was confirmed when the Allstate Protection Plans BendBot revealed that the Samsung Galaxy Edge cracked under the same pressure as the iPhone. "Bendgate," sparked widespread concerns over the durability of thin smartphone designs, leading to manufacturers seeking ways to strengthen designs.

The hardware evolution: Tougher, but not indestructible

Manufacturers now employ toughened materials like Gorilla Glass, aluminum, and even ceramic to withstand drops and scratches. Yet, despite these advances, modern smartphones are far from unbreakable. In recent drop tests, even flagship devices like the Samsung S24 Ultra with its titanium frame and Corning Gorilla Armor shattered after 6-foot falls. Similarly, the iPhone 16, despite its aluminum sides and ceramic shield, sustained cracked screens and scuffed corners when dropped.

Larger phones, larger problems

Early smartphones typically featured screens around 4 inches. In response to consumer demand, today's models, such as Samsung's Galaxy line, boast displays as large as 6.8 inches. While bigger screens offer enhanced viewing experiences, holding and using larger phones with one hand has led to an increase in accidental drops. A survey by Allstate Protection Plans found that 78% of users have dropped their devices while using them with one hand. The question remains whether the trade-off between screen size and ease of use is worth the risk.

Tougher, but still vulnerable

Smartphone durability has made impressive strides, yet no manufacturer has designed a device impervious to the unforgiving impact of a sidewalk. Given their vital role in our lives and the high repair costs for the latest models, it's essential to protect these valuable devices. Cases and screen protectors are must-haves, and a protection plan can be a real money-saver when accidents inevitably happen.

While smartphone technology has been ever-evolving for the past three decades, one thing remains unchanged: the importance of taking steps to protect your device, and your investment.

 - TNS