Symptoms
- Visible crack or spiderweb pattern in the glass
- Touch and display still respond normally
- Small glass flakes or sharp edges near the crack
- No lines or discoloration on the display
Likely causes
- CommonImpact from a drop cracked only the outer glass layerThe glass is bonded to the display but is a separate layer, so it can shatter while the screen underneath survives.
- CommonPressure crack from sitting on the phone or a tight pocketBending force can crack glass without a drop.
- PossiblePre-existing weak spot from an earlier minor dropA small chip can spread into a full crack later under normal handling.
What to do
- Stop using the phone with bare fingers if you feel sharp edges; a case with a raised lip helps for now.
- Cover the crack with clear packing tape or a screen protector to keep glass shards contained and keep dust or moisture out.
- Back up your photos and data now, since the glass can fail further at any time.
- Avoid pressing hard on the cracked area or storing the phone screen-down.
- Check if the crack affects the camera notch or edges, which can mean a full digitizer replacement is needed rather than just glass.
- Get a repair quote from a phone repair shop or the manufacturer; ask whether they do glass-only or full screen replacement.
- If the phone is under warranty or has accidental damage coverage, file a claim before paying out of pocket.
Tools and parts
- Clear tape or screen protector
- Case
Tempered glass screen protectorSearch: “tempered glass screen protector for [your phone model]”
When to call a pro
See a repair shop if the crack spreads, touch stops working, or you see the crack near the camera or edges where moisture could get in.
Safety
Use caution
Cracked glass can have sharp edges that cut skin; handle carefully and cover it before continuing to use the phone.