RAZR plastic surrounding border fix - Motorola Droid RAZR

Hello,
Have any one noticed that the Droid RAZR surrounding plastic border, at the back, color gets dim from putting it on your desk or table. It's not very obvious, you wont see it except in strong light, but it's obvious enough to bother me every time I look at my RAZR
I have attached a pic I found online which has the same problem as mine and I highlighted the scratched or the dim parts on the plastic border.
Is there a fix for these scratches?
What were you thinking in, Motorola. Why didn't you choose a stronger material around the phone, I mean you did a great job by choosing gorilla glass to protect the display and Kelvar fabrics on the back, and the coating which protects the internal body parts. Yet you made the material which gets the most damages and is highly vulnerable out of plastic...

If you ever owned an iPod with a stainless steel back you'd know that being plastic or metal won't change the eventual appearance of fine scratches. Glass stays shiny and doesn't scratch as easily, but we all saw the crap people gave Apple for making the back of their phone out of that.
I doubt that the scratches can be removed even if they could be you're just going to get them back by putting the phone on your desk again. If you have to go out of your way to look for it under a strong light, it sounds like you either need a case, a hobby, or both.

There actually is a method for removing scratches:
1. Fine grain abrasive paper
2. Abrasive paste
But that will eliminate the paint on your backplate and you should re-paint it with an acrylic paint (like spray paint).
If you're so brave to do that...well..do it...but consider the idea of taking your RAZR as it is and to not put it directly on your desk but like me, put it on its pouch.
The fact that it's going to be scratched is absolutely normal... it's a phone..!

The coolest thing you can do would be to take out the back plate and sent it to a powdercoater. That's what I would do but I think it will mess up the warranty. it would be so cool though.

Isn't it an excess to powdercoat it?
Hey probably in 1 year you won't have it anymore xD
....But I have to admit it would be cool.

Can't polish and compound fix it?
The ones I use for my car =D

mzaza said:
Hello,
Have any one noticed that the Droid RAZR surrounding plastic border, at the back, color gets dim from putting it on your desk or table. It's not very obvious, you wont see it except in strong light, but it's obvious enough to bother me every time I look at my RAZR
I have attached a pic I found online which has the same problem as mine and I highlighted the scratched or the dim parts on the plastic border.
Is there a fix for these scratches?
What were you thinking in, Motorola. Why didn't you choose a stronger material around the phone, I mean you did a great job by choosing gorilla glass to protect the display and Kelvar fabrics on the back, and the coating which protects the internal body parts. Yet you made the material which gets the most damages and is highly vulnerable out of plastic...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the same problem with my first Droid Razr. Then returned it to Verizon Wireless because I got the deal from Amazon.
And on second one, I put more care over that plastic bezel and put carefully a slice of transparent tape to cover it.
Though running at the risk of scratching the plastic bezel, I still let it run nakedly because it is the thinnest phone in the world and any cover will blow that title.

Mine scratched in the same places. I used car polish (Meguires Scratch X) to remove them. Just be gentle. I keep mine in my Casemate case now to prevent more.

That! One of the reason I moved from sgs2 because the plasticky body also collect the scratch at the same area (top and bottom). But it turned out razr metal body also can collect scratch... Geezz, i always put in my left pocket together with handkerchief, never ever put any coins or metallic substances near my phone....
And now, while i look closer to my screen, it too has collect two fine scratch line. Small, but i can see it. I think gorilla glass is way overhyped... As i wander around i also found this:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1358493
p.s: can we sue corning? or those guys who hammered their gorilla-glassed phone on you tube with knife?

The title of your thread implies that you already have a fix. You should have it edited.
Otherwise just buy a dang cover/case for the phone or buy little soft towels for every spot you put it down...

Related

Invisible shield...

I was thinking about purchasing an Invisible shield at a mall nearby, but just to make sure before i buy it, are there any bad things about it?
davidst3r said:
I was thinking about purchasing an Invisible shield at a mall nearby, but just to make sure before i buy it, are there any bad things about it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I only use it for the screen, not the full body coverage (thought it looked better unglossy)
It applies really well if you take your time and follow directions.
Looks as if you didn't use a screen protector at all.
Nice texture, nothing funny feeling.
Not really plastic more of a rubbery shield that doesn't break.
Doesn't blur or scratch (scratches can be buffed out basically.
Can easily be replaced through zagg (they will send you a new one for almost any excuse haha)
Only funny thing is that it kind shows a different looking effect when viewing at a small angle and when the phone is off (not a problem at all really...)
If you get it professional installed (like I did) it's well worth it. I got the full body and I notice that the little pieces that are cut to fit around corners come up over time, and the corners can fill with dirt and also peel up.
Since InvisibleShield comes with a lifetime guarantee against anything, it's well worth it. You can get it replaced anytime, question-free, just a $10 fee for installation. I've gotten it replaced 3 times over the 7 months I've owned my phone and it's well worth it :]. Fun to show off too!
i bought it online when they were running a promo on it (full body+screen).
after a afternoon of chilling and bbq'n i decided i would install it that same night.. bad move. i mean a few beers weren't gonna hurt right? lol
Its easy to install "after" you have tried it with a few pieces lol.
took me like 45mins and it came out good overall. the back corner piece does suck and is peeling off somewhat.
i would do this again but would rather have it done by a pro though
if your gonna do this yourself make sure you get it really wet and don't pull too hard on the material when your peeling it off the paper as this will look bad when you install it and after it dries.
lol i got a shieldskin, pretty much same thing as the invisishield, it covered 95% of the phone. A few weeks later i dropped my G1 on the pavement and it landed on a small jagged pebble on the 5% that wasn't covered. FML.
Anyway, I ditched that for a full body case. Better coverage for a bigger phone, im okay with it.
i put the whole cover on, screen piece is excellent..feels good, doesn't scratch, can't even tell its there. the other parts are ok, the corners do collect a lot of gunk, and it is a fingerprint magnet, but easily cleaned up. kinda tricky to install yourself though. if you just set it down all over, or put it in your pocket, its great, if you're the kind of person who drops things a lot, go with something else for the body and just get the screen piece.
I personally cannot stand invisible shield. I have never had any luck with them. They always end up feeling like orange peel to me. I know that its not me, because when I install a bodyguardz it never orange peels. Its always perfect. Plus you get 2 for the price of one!
I recommend Bodyguardz hands down.
http://www.bodyguardz.com/T_Mobile_G1_p/tmobileg1.htm?Click=9481
I like mine, a lot
I have on on my ipod that I guess I gave to my four-year-old. It's tough stuff.
I think it sounds wacko, but I am convinced the skin absorbs a little of the impact of a drop. It really is scratch proof, and if you put them on right, it should cover all of the unit except of the corners of the battery cover &($11 on ebay). It's 3D curved, so there really isn't a way to engineer it perfectly. I took my glasses off (hard core near sighted) and dabbed a bit of fingernail top coat in the cracks to match the sheen and protect a little. It hasn't chipped or peeled in the tiny cracks that were left.
Yes, eventually they do peel up, particularly if you're sliding it in & out of another really tight case, but even so, they stay put pretty well despite a corner or two coming up. If it's intsalled correctly and there are no regular spots where it's worn really hard, I can't imagine anything peeling up unless you pick at it.
I put mine on myself, entirely sober and well-slept. I was really concerned about the job I did at first, but the skin settles into place after a day or two. Now it looks pretty good (i.e. I'm happy with it, so it's notably invisible to other people).
I like the "StickyPad" effect it has, particularly on the back, but it's handy on the front for when I have it face down (I like Face of Ring in market). It's very rubbery, so it doesn't slide around on a desk, nightstand or dashboard, and with foam on car mounts, etc. it really stays put.
If anything, I would get a screen protector from another manufacturer that isn't so glossy. It has a bit of a wavy texture if you look closely, so on the screen it looks a little odd if you're thinking about it, and looking at it. A slippery screen for finger gestures makes more sense, but I'm leaving mine in place becuase I know it's rock solid screen protection (and it's cut to fit the rest of the skin).
I'm looking forward to putting on my next one because I know it'll turn out better. I'll put the screen protector on first, then line up the surrounding screen-edge side peices to match it at the top and the bottom of the screen, so that then I can line up the top-edge and bottom edge pieces with a straight line from the screen side & corners, rather than the bottom edge of the screen assembly. The rest was really straightforward, tedious, and not for people who don't have a knack for fine motor movement and estimating sall measurements fairly acurately. But I can't even pay someone to replace my brake pads, much less put on a phone protector.
And what that other guy said: REALLY, REALLY WET. I think I'll be more liberal with the spray next time. You can slide it around for about a second without stretching it. If you have a lint free towel, it handy for keeping the spray out of the unit but still have enough to slide around until it's right.
I had trouble with the corner opposite the camera button. The phone curves in the back, and the dart (the v-shaped cut to make the corner) wasn't quite deep enough, so I used Swiss Army knife scissors and trimmed the extra that just wouldn't stick down because it was just too much. I'm glad I did.
I know there's lint under my screen protector, but I can't see it. The bubbles, if they're tiny, just seem to disappear. It's really a cool material, and worth a try just to see the stuff.
Besides, it fits inside another case.
(I do sew, but I refuse to knit.)

DIY Soft Touch Rear Cover

Refer to the following thread where a person used a spray on material to create a soft touch battery door for a Nexus S. I wonder if this could be used on the rear cover for protection?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=881062
Cool idea. Most hardware stores I've been to have it, but its not always in spray form. I wouldn't mess with the dip stuff (often used for keys, tools, etc.) I might have to pick some up myself. Comes in some different colors as well sometimes.
I've had a key on my keychain that has been dipped and after 3yrs its almost ready to come off completely. Of course, I only used it to tell them apart.
I did it. Edit: Finally got the photos up.
I took the four screws off and removed the back panel. Used four small pieces of painters tape to cover up the screw holes, but actually let the rubber go underneath so the sides of the corners were covered and continuous as much as possible.
I put about five or six coatings on. Only bad part is that you need to wait 30+ minutes between coatings. I let it off gas a little before putting it all back together. It does stink a little, not headache inducing though, at first. After about 12hrs it just smells like rubber and isn't noticeable.
$7.50 or so at Lowe's for a can. I did this and a phone and there is still some left in it I believe.
Like the Nexus post says, it works best if there are few noncontinuous parts of the rubber to get snagged on things. This was part of the reason I removed the case.
No responsibility for messing yours up, etc. etc.
vsc said:
Refer to the following thread where a person used a spray on material to create a soft touch battery door for a Nexus S. I wonder if this could be used on the rear cover for protection?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=881062
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This looks sweet vsc. I like my carbon fiber rear cover, but a soft rubberized grip would definitely be better.
Just added some photos up above. I forgot to add that the back case goes on just as easy as it came off. Buttons still work, and the little door still opens correctly. It *almost* looks like it could have come this way. Its actually thin enough you can still see a slight bump from where the sticker for the serial number is (not in the pictures though, sorry). I think it looks a bit better now than having all those extra words on the back of the case. My case had already started to get rather scratched up even when I was careful.
I'll try to update on durability if it starts to look bad.
One other thing. My corners don't look the greatest because the first time I did it I let it dry with the corner tape on and then had to exacto knife the plastic and tape off once it had dried. I think it would do better if you made nice rounded tape areas, or just bought some rounded stickers or something. But definitely put them on lightly and take them off between each coat so the corners dry without the tape/stickers.

Does it need a screen protector?

So... On my phone i always use those plastic film thingies because a smartphone is something that i take everywhere with me and put it in different locations like pockets, backpacks etc. Other stuff can be in those pockets so scratches are definately a possibility. I just dont feel comfortable without it and they dont bother me at all while using the phone.
But on a tablet like the prime its a whole different story. When I use it I sit somewhere, comfortably and safe. When i take it with me it's in its neoprene sleeve. Also i usually take the dock with me, and when its docked the screen is automatically protected...
The Prime has even Gorilla glass so i dont plan on putting anything on it. This is my first tablet so you guys may have more experience with it... Your thoughts? The glass feels just so awesome to the touch, i dont think a protector can replicate that.
So do you plan on putting a protector on it?
Btw1: i really dont care about scratches on the back^^ It gives the device some personality! Its the same with books for me. Hate it when they are new and shiny. Feel free to comment on that as well
Btw2: Maybe this thread should be in the Accessory forum? This is a general discussion though - i think? Mods, do what you have to do.
I was thinking the same about the screen protector, but the IPS feels so good that i think I'm just going to get the sleeve.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
i bought one and it was near impossible to get it on without dust or something under it. thats a huge area to try to get dustless even in just a few seconds
i havent been using one, i just rub my tfp against whatever cotton shirt i might be wearing, that cleans the screen and i havent had any scratches.
i use a leather folio style case, so the screen is usually covered for the most part, i just use my shirt to get finger prints off lol
I have a dry application crystal clear screen protector and I love it mostly because it doesn't collect fingerprints and smudges as easy and is easier to wipe clean if anything this is worth it alone plus you don't have to worry about a accidental scratch somehow.
I don't and won't be using one. The tablet has gorilla glass and is very durable. My phone also has it and that goes all sorts of places and has remained scratch free. Considering my tablet is only at home loose otherwise always in the dock which then goes in the neoprene case, I have no desire to put one on and am not going to worry about it.
Prime has gorilla glass. I don't have one n my screen looks great. Veryyyy scratch resistant. Plus it cleans off so easily with the included cloth. All screen protectors do is degrade screen quality n throw off touch response.
http://gizmodo.com/5880520/stop-ruining-your-phone-with-a-stupid-case
no phone/tablet is designed to be used with a cover/skin, except iPhone 4
im glad my galaxy s2 is "free" after having a cover for 2 weeks..
// --
I know the link is about cases, but still think its in the same categori!
I took my prime down to the invisible shield stand in the mall to get a screen protector. hen I got there they said because the device was so new they didnt have anything for it. But because it was a TFP the guy offered to custom cut one for me.
Say what you want, but I got mine done without even a fleck of dust under it and it offers no distortion of my screen, nor do I notice any sensitivity loss. Not only that but I find its way easier to clean.
Besides who knows whats gunna jump out of nowhere and try and scratch your screen.
screen protector I have does not throw off sensitivity at all I was worried it would but it didn't just as responsive.
It may be false sense of security, but I have the skinomi protection on mine. Just in case. The screen is beautiful and I don't want anything to happen to it.
Yes. I liked the feel of it better without the screen protector. But I've not noticed any degrading of color, etc. There are 2 specs of dust that got underneath that are driving me MAD and that may end up being why I take it off, maybe. But overall its better because no finger prints and less worry.
But not as nice to touch
I've had my desire for nearly 2 years and there isn't a mark on the screen dropped at a few times too, great big dent on one corner but no scratches. Them corner protectors but probably a good idea but not worth trying to get a screen protector on.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using two cups and a piece of string.
I use a protector, feels as good as the glass screen.
Sent from my LG-P990 using Tapatalk
rsarno said:
i bought one and it was near impossible to get it on without dust or something under it. thats a huge area to try to get dustless even in just a few seconds
i havent been using one, i just rub my tfp against whatever cotton shirt i might be wearing, that cleans the screen and i havent had any scratches.
i use a leather folio style case, so the screen is usually covered for the most part, i just use my shirt to get finger prints off lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Take a shower and install the screen protector in the bathroom when it is still humid. Works like a charm to install screen protectors dust free.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
IMPORTANT DATA. Please read
Guys, I want to bring this to your attention so what happened to me doesn't befall you:
The Gorilla Glass, while tough, can be scratched quite easily under the right conditions. I was in a thread a few weeks agao, being all smart (like my Username, LOL!) saying that a screen protector was a waste. a) Because they make a beautiful screen something "less beautiful" b) that they are difficult to place on the glass properly, and c) My biggest pout: Anything that is sharp enough, hard enough, and strikes with enough force or velocity to scratch, chip or otherwise damage Gorilla Glass will likely not have any less impact from a piece of plastic between the glass and the projectile.
In other words, if something is going to damage the hardened glass, how is a decidedly super thin piece of plastic going to stop it?
In retrospect, I was very wrong, or at least partly wrong. That very night my daughter sat with me playing games on the Prime. We played a few games together: Where's my water, and similar. Then I played Need For Speed, and then she played Fruit Ninja.
When I went to clean all the 11 year old finger prints off, I noticed what looked to be scratches in the glass. At first I thought it was just debris from sticky fingers, but no... it was... HOLY **** THE GLASS WAS FREAKING SCRATCHED RIGHT THE **** THROUGH!!!!!!
Seems she had a cheap metal ring on, with a split back that lets you adjust the size. By holding the tablet in portrait, and not hard or in any way roughly, she scratched the glass on the right side of the camera, a 1" wide SET of scratches, not one or two, but a swirl of perhaps 12 or 15 scratches that were deep enough to be basically impossible to remove.
I tried to see if there were any methods to polish this out. including seeking help from a glass polishing co, and optometry tools and materials. All advised against it, and the amount of sanding, and polishing needed would have put an obvious "dent" in the glass that would make it no longer true or flat.
Fortunately I had insurance, and for a $125 deductible I was able to replace the unit. Lesson (a huge one) learned. Lesson I am trying to pass along? BE CAREFUL. Check EVERYONE who uses the the tablet to make sure they have no rings or jewelry. If a screen protector makes you feel more comfortable, b all means get one, and keep it on there, there are two types, the rubbery "sticky" ones that I hate, since your finger stick and won't slide on it very well, and the harder, shinier material (actually comes in an anti reflection satin finish too I believe).
No matter what you decide remember, if something looks like it could scratch the glass, don't take chances with it. better safe than hugely sorry. Also, while Gorilla Glass IS scratch resistant, it is NOT BREAK RESISTANT. When I saw the damage to my screen, I admit, I actually was close to tears... No ****.
Be careful out there.
Thx for your input man So i guess if i ever have a daughter i get an iPad to play games with her. It'll be fun to watch how she takes it apart and scratches it all over the place.. MUAHAHAHHAHAHhahhaaaa!
In a word: Yes.
Not so much for protection though but to minimize reflections and fingerprints.
While losing a tiny bit of sharpness and color the display is much more readable under any circumstances. No need to "wash" off fingerprints every 10 minutes, no need to hold the tablet so no lights are reflected right where I want to read something onscreen.
I use this one:
http://www.danto.de/onscreen-schutzfolie-fuer-asus-eee-pad-transformer-prime-typ-non-reflecting.html
Since a tablet screen is much bigger than that of a smartphone applying it has to be done cautious and calm. To get rid of any particles between screen and protector I used TESA stripes to pull the protector off a bit and then another one to remove the particles.
Good idea with the shower, though.
demandarin said:
Prime has gorilla glass. I don't have one n my screen looks great. Veryyyy scratch resistant. Plus it cleans off so easily with the included cloth. All screen protectors do is degrade screen quality n throw off touch response.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I concur. A screen protector isn't necessary for normal use. Also, you might have some issues docking it with a protector on.
i dont see any point to use screen protector, its not small device like regular cellphone which may be accidently put in same pocket as your keys and therefore scratch your screen. I use mine mostly with dock, so when its closed its protected by dock, and while not having it docked i use leather case from ebay. And afterall it has gorilla glass should be durable
IMO, no, it does not need one, but it never hurts to be safe. I've no case for mine yet, and am about to have a Skinomi skin to throw on it, and have been using it for only three days. My screen is perfect, I'm a neat freak and keep it spotless, keeping a cloth on hand and using a stylus. However, a case/skin for the back most certainly is needed if you don't like scratches. I don't mind them, my phone is covered in dings and scratches and gouges, but the screen is fine with a protector.
In short, no, it doesn't really need one, but yes I'll be using one. Damned if I'll accidentally hit my jacket zipper too hard or something retarded.
Like the above poster said, does it NEED a screen protector, no. But lets be realistic, people give gorilla glass way too much credit thinking that its invincible. If the tab is always in an immaculately clean place, then you have nothing to worry about. But a lot of dirt particles also have tiny particles of sand in it, which easily scratches glass. Key tests are just useless propaganda. Its little sand particles and other small minerals found in dirt that will scratch your screen, which is how most peoples phone screens get scratched without them realizing. Dirt and dust are everywhere. But if you're careful enough, you can minimize the issue. Personally, I spent $500 on a device so I feel an extra $10 to protect the screen against scratches and preserve resale value isn't much to ask. Also, Skinomi has a screen protector that has a cutout for the dock, I highly recommend it,its super clear.
Long story short, you don't need one if you're going to be careful enough. But don't fall for marketing hype and think that gorilla glass is indestructible. It actually marks up pretty easy (especially if theres a coating on top of the gorilla glass). I put screen protectors on my devices so I don't have to baby them. If i'm always worried about scratches, I can't fully enjoy it.

Self breaking glass?

So i have read rants on the Z1 having self breaking glass, and alittle on the ultra. Most of the threads on the ultra though have been, slight to moderate abuse (sat on)(backpack of stuff) causing breaks. Not the classic Z1 of "took phone out of front pocket". My normal routine is only having the phone in my front pocket when going from my desk to the car. Other than that its on my desk or left in my car (i hate walking around with a phone in my pants).
Mines coming this week and i kinda want to take some preventive steps, and wondering if sony really is replacing "not blown to bits" screens under warranty in at least the USA.
I hear it comes with a factory "screen protector" that you should leave on, and put another screen protector on top of it. Is that true or is the factory protector just the stock "tabbed" film that should be removed right after opening the box? I have a front/back screen protector coming, but wanted to know if i should peel off the factory one first.
nightanole said:
So i have read rants on the Z1 having self breaking glass, and alittle on the ultra. Most of the threads on the ultra though have been, slight to moderate abuse (sat on)(backpack of stuff) causing breaks. Not the classic Z1 of "took phone out of front pocket". My normal routine is only having the phone in my front pocket when going from my desk to the car. Other than that its on my desk or left in my car (i hate walking around with a phone in my pants).
Mines coming this week and i kinda want to take some preventive steps, and wondering if sony really is replacing "not blown to bits" screens under warranty in at least the USA.
I hear it comes with a factory "screen protector" that you should leave on, and put another screen protector on top of it. Is that true or is the factory protector just the stock "tabbed" film that should be removed right after opening the box? I have a front/back screen protector coming, but wanted to know if i should peel off the factory one first.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
one year in, and no glass breaking
your routine won't break the phone, i'm sure
screen protector, i have one on top of the anti shatter film provided with the phone, both front and back, and both scratched to hell, but too lazy to replace
Definitely put a aftermarket screen protector over the anti shatter film. The ASF is too soft, but is a pain in the arse to remove by all accounts
I've had my ZU for about 9 months now and have dropped it 3 times onto concrete, once without any screen proctor or case, the other two times has been with a wallet/flip case. The last time I dropped it the case even broke - still the screen is intact.
I too thought it wont happen to mine, till it really did, of course it's not self breaking glass for no reason, but more likely the most logical reason I could think of is, the stress accumulated from the daily use, a bit of pressure while in pocket, or backpack, along with the heat / cold temperature, whatever other bull crap from regular use, over a period of time, that stress cause the glass to be broken.
I pretty much babied my Z Ultra, have back casing, Glass M on the front, Skinomi on the back, never dropped, all in like new condition. Then last Sunday I was on my bike ride, put it inside my backpack, along with my wallet, then couple hours later, took it out from my backpack only to find the glass, under the M Glass screen protector, under the original ASF, has a hairline crack, and pretty much as good as brick, since it wont register any touch, I can see a call coming in, but cant answer it since the display doesnt work.
OP said it happens with Z1, I read that it happens with Z2, and it happens with my Z Ultra, so I think it's just something on their glass quality along with their full glass design, it is impacting a small number of them, not all, just small number, but still the problem indeed does exists.
But I still buy another Z Ultra in a heart beat without much thinking, as a matter of fact already got another one from expensys, with the price is so cheap now, the smoothness, the crisp display, the waterproofness, it still worth every penny.
Mine broke in the pocket, and so did others.
It can break. But with that said, the risk yours will break in the pocket with no abuse is small.
Sony aren't very consistent in handling these cases. Sometimes they get it fixed on warranty, sometimes they're not. But if you get a first negative answer just send in a complaint and they might turn around (as in my case).
I just got mine back. I had the asf removed on the previous one, I'm not taking it off now. And I'm doubling up with tempered glass protectors.
i personally recommend removal of the anti shater layer, if you live in humid climates, as it can cause the residual moisture and oils from your fingers to cause key presses. i had a bad issue with this till i spend an hour with a razor blade removing it.
some people also claim that removing the layer voids your warranty, but i had the phone replaced about a month back with my extended warranty and had no issues with replacement regardless of having the film removed.
boystuff said:
i personally recommend removal of the anti shater layer, if you live in humid climates, as it can cause the residual moisture and oils from your fingers to cause key presses. i had a bad issue with this till i spend an hour with a razor blade removing it.
some people also claim that removing the layer voids your warranty, but i had the phone replaced about a month back with my extended warranty and had no issues with replacement regardless of having the film removed.
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Click to collapse
There is so much wrong with this post.
boystuff said:
i personally recommend removal of the anti shater layer, if you live in humid climates, as it can cause the residual moisture and oils from your fingers to cause key presses. i had a bad issue with this till i spend an hour with a razor blade removing it.
some people also claim that removing the layer voids your warranty, but i had the phone replaced about a month back with my extended warranty and had no issues with replacement regardless of having the film removed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i live right on the equator, and have not had any problems with this (i also use a screen protector on top of the antishatter film). do you mean to say by removing the anti-shatter film, the glass doesn't pick up any fingerprints and oil? a screen can only be oleophobic for so long.
To those who have had the screen crack in their pockets: were you using a hard case to provide rigidity to the device?
I also just received a Z Ultra and read through the massive threads on Sony's forums on these problems. It just seems the device is so thin it has too much flex in the pocket. I'm even hesitant to use the leather flipstyle case if it doesn'tt provide enough rigidity.
I'm thinking maybe the aluminum bumper case with GlassM protectors on both sides would work nicely together. Hopefully the aluminum won't degrade the signal quality too harshly.
luceri84 said:
To those who have had the screen crack in their pockets: were you using a hard case to provide rigidity to the device?
I also just received a Z Ultra and read through the massive threads on Sony's forums on these problems. It just seems the device is so thin it has too much flex in the pocket. I'm even hesitant to use the leather flipstyle case if it doesn'tt provide enough rigidity.
I'm thinking maybe the aluminum bumper case with GlassM protectors on both sides would work nicely together. Hopefully the aluminum won't degrade the signal quality too harshly.
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Those hair thin aluminum bumper cases wont do squat, the thick glassM m shields wont do squat. The device is just too long and think. Your best bet is to treat it like a full size tablet. Dont sit with it in your pocket, dont put it in your bag without being in a separate compartment. The poor thing is like 1/4" thick and made out of aluminum and glass. I still dont know why they choose this glass. I can take my droid incredible with gorilla glass and pound the screen on the corner of a desk over and over, no scratches. This sony phone just doesnt have any flex for the glass.
I just through an iLLumiShield on the front and back so i can throw it on the table and not worry about scratches.
nightanole said:
Those hair thin aluminum bumper cases wont do squat, the thick glassM m shields wont do squat. The device is just too long and think. Your best bet is to treat it like a full size tablet. Dont sit with it in your pocket, dont put it in your bag without being in a separate compartment. The poor thing is like 1/4" thick and made out of aluminum and glass. I still dont know why they choose this glass. I can take my droid incredible with gorilla glass and pound the screen on the corner of a desk over and over, no scratches. This sony phone just doesnt have any flex for the glass.
I just through an iLLumiShield on the front and back so i can throw it on the table and not worry about scratches.
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But if flex is the issue then wouldn't a solid metal frame that doesn't bend around the perimeter of the phone rectify such concern?
luceri84 said:
But if flex is the issue then wouldn't a solid metal frame that doesn't bend around the perimeter of the phone rectify such concern?
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Yes but the aluminum bumper case is very flimsy stamped aluminum. You would need something with zero give like aircraft grade. An aluminum or plastic shell would be the way to go, but That bumper case is just to prevent chiping of the sides, and give a mm lip when laying the phone on its front/back.
I just use a rubber back cover and THAT'S IT. No problems for me. And yes i keep it in my jeans' pocket most of the time. It does hinder my movement a little though
Sent from my C6802 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
The better way to deal with the size is not to put in jeans pocket. In winter, jacket pockets I guess are ok. In summer, I guess the best way would be to buy a camera bag or something for this. I think that would solve this problem.
I just got the phone and I am kinda surprised to see how thin it is. Definitely not a phone you should stress too much.

My Slickwraps Cork Back Install

A big thanks to several members of this community, biggest thanks goes to T-R as I followed much of his instructions here
My goal was to replace the back but also place metal plates for my CD tray magnetic car holder.
I ordered three of the factory second backs from SlickWraps, the dark leather, football leather and cork. My first try was going to be with the cork as I figured it to be the most forgiving. I ordered the same plastic sheeting and 3M strips that T-R ordered.
Tools I used:
Hair Dryer to heat back
Library card to help peel off back
Pick to start initial prying of back
1/16th drill bit for microphone hole
Xacto knife to cut plastic sheet
Dremel to cut metal plate
I'm not good at step by step instructions so I apologize for not walking through what steps it took to make this happen. Feel free to ask if you are curious. My first attempt at the metal plate was too big and the back kept popping off. I put only one of the plates back over the little divot under the camera but didn't take pics before putting back on again as I didn't think it would work, seems it did.
My pros and cons and pics.
Pros:
Love the feel of the cork
Feels close to stock when not being nit picky
My slickwrap experience was great, order on Wednesday, in my mailbox on Friday
Fit of the cork back is impressively good minus one issue, see below
Cons:
Buy extra stickers, I screwed up the first and was glad to have a second but will need more if I want to change it
Mic hole is no where near where it should be on the cork back, might be part of why it's a factory second
Stickers are not as strong as the Motorola goop
Rookie mistake:
I had left the screen naked while working on all of this and scratched the hell out of it (my standards, others ask where when they look at it)
thanks for sharing. always love to see pics of what others are doing. what kind of magnetic holder do u use? any pics of the damage to the screen?
sand1303 said:
thanks for sharing. always love to see pics of what others are doing. what kind of magnetic holder do u use? any pics of the damage to the screen?
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I tried taking a pic of the scratches and they don't show up well; they are probably not as bad as I make them out to be. I switched over to this mount because it has the strongest magnet I could find in a CD mount holder.
I'm tempted to switch the back out for one of the leather ones, I'm never satisfied.
No matter how nice it looks, it's certainly not worth scratching the screen for. I never put my phone face down on any surface that is not soft and I've never scratched the screen on any of my numerous phones. I hate screen protectors because they always look and feel horrible but I am super careful about the screen. That's the bit you interact with all the time and it would really bother me to have even the slightest scratch on it.
Otherwise, good job.
Was curious on how the plastic backing under the skin was holding in terms of sticking. I was thinking about doing the same thing and wanted to know how good the plastic/tape combo was at holding over time. Any lifting occur?
Jawrduhn said:
Was curious on how the plastic backing under the skin was holding in terms of sticking. I was thinking about doing the same thing and wanted to know how good the plastic/tape combo was at holding over time. Any lifting occur?
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My first install was my learning exercise and I can't say it would have survived long term, started popping up on the edges. Just this past week I installed the football textured leather back and am very happy with it. Thus far it is not popping up anywhere but I had learned a lot from my last install. New learnings:
Have a brand new x-acto blade, works so much easier making the plastic template back
Scuff the plastic backing before applying the sticker, it comes shiny and smooth
I bought a heat gun and found out quickly the plastic back can warp easily so be careful when heating it
Still heat it though and hold for a good 30-60 seconds after
Leave a small gap around around the sticky tape after applying to the back, if you try to cut it perfect you land up with a bare edge
Install the plastic back first to the phone, leave it for a day if you can. If it pops up, heat the hell out of it and hold as strongly as you can for a minute or so ( I wore gloves)
Heat again after applying the leather back, heat really helps the application stick
If you buy the regular leather be aware it's not treated with any water resistance or proofing and any water will mark it.
If you are buying the Factory Second versions buy a couple, they are only $10 each and $2 shipping total.
The bump near the camera is from the metal plate I installed for my car mount, I couldn't fully conceal it.
thepktrckt said:
My first install was my learning exercise and I can't say it would have survived long term, started popping up on the edges. Just this past week I installed the football textured leather back and am very happy with it. Thus far it is not popping up anywhere but I had learned a lot from my last install. New learnings:
Have a brand new x-acto blade, works so much easier making the plastic template back
Scuff the plastic backing before applying the sticker, it comes shiny and smooth
I bought a heat gun and found out quickly the plastic back can warp easily so be careful when heating it
Still heat it though and hold for a good 30-60 seconds after
Leave a small gap around around the sticky tape after applying to the back, if you try to cut it perfect you land up with a bare edge
Install the plastic back first to the phone, leave it for a day if you can. If it pops up, heat the hell out of it and hold as strongly as you can for a minute or so ( I wore gloves)
Heat again after applying the leather back, heat really helps the application stick
If you buy the regular leather be aware it's not treated with any water resistance or proofing and any water will mark it.
If you are buying the Factory Second versions buy a couple, they are only $10 each and $2 shipping total.
The bump near the camera is from the metal plate I installed for my car mount, I couldn't fully conceal it.
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Awesome, thanks for the tips. I'm actually using a skin from TOAST so I'll see how everything pans out.
thepktrckt said:
My first install was my learning exercise and I can't say it would have survived long term, started popping up on the edges. Just this past week I installed the football textured leather back and am very happy with it. Thus far it is not popping up anywhere but I had learned a lot from my last install. New learnings:
Have a brand new x-acto blade, works so much easier making the plastic template back
Scuff the plastic backing before applying the sticker, it comes shiny and smooth
I bought a heat gun and found out quickly the plastic back can warp easily so be careful when heating it
Still heat it though and hold for a good 30-60 seconds after
Leave a small gap around around the sticky tape after applying to the back, if you try to cut it perfect you land up with a bare edge
Install the plastic back first to the phone, leave it for a day if you can. If it pops up, heat the hell out of it and hold as strongly as you can for a minute or so ( I wore gloves)
Heat again after applying the leather back, heat really helps the application stick
If you buy the regular leather be aware it's not treated with any water resistance or proofing and any water will mark it.
If you are buying the Factory Second versions buy a couple, they are only $10 each and $2 shipping total.
The bump near the camera is from the metal plate I installed for my car mount, I couldn't fully conceal it.
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Click to collapse
Is it a formed vinyl patterned or really leather? footballs are supposed to be made of pig leather right?
I'd like to see ostrich
LOL haven't seen Ostrich yet. It's definitely textured bovine leather not plastic and looks like it is treated as I haven't had any water stains yet.
Forgot to ask, when you said your first attempt had he edges raising, were you referring to the plastic or the leather?
lotus49 said:
No matter how nice it looks, it's certainly not worth scratching the screen for.
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I agree. Even the slightest hint of a scratch and I would lose a bunch of sleep. But unlike you, I use a glass protector which feels like the phone screen.
Jawrduhn said:
Forgot to ask, when you said your first attempt had he edges raising, were you referring to the plastic or the leather?
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Both but most of it was the plastic peeling off of the back of the phone. It was applied twice though and I'm certain that impacted the adhesion.
My Nexus with Cork back from Slickwraps.
http://kryon.smugmug.com/Purenexus/i-bRKJdsk/0/O/OPERATIONPNbanner5x1.png
Has anyone installed this without the replacement back? and if so can I get a pic?
How is the cork back holding out for you. Can you post any pics after wear and tear.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
I am at work so I can't post pics but I made the jump and got one a couple weeks ago. I like the way it looks but if you tend to work on cars or have dirty hands from working, this is not for you. My cork back is filthy but not too noticeable unless you've seen it beforehand.
I'm diggin' the cork look!

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