Khaberni - A broken phone screen might seem like just an annoying cosmetic issue, but experts warn that some cracks might conceal real risks to the user, up to and including battery ignition.
Monica Torres explains in a recent report on HuffPost that a phone screen is made up of layers that are mechanically and functionally interconnected, meaning that any crack, even a minor one, can cause internal damage over time.
Deepakar Data, a specialist in mechanics from the New Jersey Institute of Technology, asserts that small cracks at the corners are generally low-risk if they do not affect responsiveness or cause visual distortion.
But the real danger begins when the break is accompanied by an increase in temperature. Data says: "If you feel abnormal heat at the site of the crack, this is a clear warning signal." This may indicate moisture intrusion or a battery defect. In such cases, it is advised to turn off the phone immediately.
In turn, Arthur Shei, a senior tech writer at "iFixit", warns that "a hotspot might indicate an electrical short, and if the temperature rises further it could lead to battery ignition."
The risks are not limited to heat only, as spider-web-like branching cracks may allow moisture to seep into the device, leading to corrosion of internal components and the malfunctioning of the screen or touch sensitivity. Moreover, tiny glass shards may cause finger injuries.
Data adds that moisture, even in small amounts, can cause chemical reactions that permanently weaken internal circuits, turning a screen repair into a full phone replacement.
Experts advise against ignoring the break, as doing so could end up costing the user more than expected; thus, an early repair by a specialist remains the safest and most cost-effective option.
