Apple Stores in the U.S. are now offering machine-applied screen protectors for iPhone. The service, which uses a Belkin protectors and the ScreenCare+ applicator tool, starts at $18 and is available for iPhone 6 and up.
Apple Stores in Japan first began using Belkin’s tool to apply screen protectors last week, and now the service is available in the U.S.
Thanks to the ScreenCare+ applicator, you get a flawless finish that’s free from air bumps and dust particles. The standard protector applied is made using “InvisiGlass,” which is a flexible glass technology that absorbs impact and scratches without breaking.
There’s also an anti-glare option made out of scratch-resistant PET material that “enhances visibility by reducing glare from bright sunlight and artificial lighting,” according to Belkin’s ScreenCare+ webpage.
Here’s a video that showcases the ScreenCare+ tool, and how it works.
Belkin claims its protectors are so clear and so precise that you’ll hardly notice they are there. To get yours, simply pop into your local Apple Store.
Killian Bell is a freelance writer based in the U.K. He has an interest in all things tech and also covers Android over at CultofAndroid.com. You can follow him on Twitter via @killianbell.
6 responses to “U.S. Apple Stores offer machine-applied protectors for iPhone”
Question: Why aren’t these protective devices (screen protectors and cases) an integrated feature of the iPhone?
Because then it defeats the purpose. If you scratch a protector or break a case, it’s inexpensive to replace them. If they’re fixed to the iPhone in some way, then they’d be super expensive to repair. Yes, I know it would make the iPhone more durable, but plenty of people will still break it.
This protective layer that is now applied in the store could be integrated into the manufacturing process of the glass itself. This would be much more cost effective and avoid the problems of imperfect application.
I don’t really understand why the iPhone glass has gotten less scratch-resistant over time. I never used screen protectors until the iPhone 5 and my phones never picked up scratches. These days a protector is an absolute must because the screen will scratch just pulling the phone out of your pocket.
Totally untrue. The glass is more scratch resistant now then ever.
Not sure what you are talking about, unless you got a new sharp key…
False. Had the 6+ for a year without a screen protector, not a scratch. Now on the 6s+ 6 months in, no scratches. Treat iPhone like it’s worth $1,000 and you won’t have any issues.