Broken Phone? Here’s What to Do

Is it hard to read messages on your phone because the screen has a ton of cracks? Has it been freezing non-stop, especially during important phone calls? Did you have a great time at the beach this summer, but it decided to go for a swim without you? You might think having a broken phone is just something you have to live with, but it doesn’t have to be.

Here are some tips to guide you with your next steps.

Back Up Your Data

If your broken phone isn’t completely destroyed, make it a point to save and backup everything you have. Important photos, text messages, contacts and whatever else you think is necessary should be stored somewhere safe.

If you don’t want to worry about hardware, the iCloud (if you have an iPhone) or apps that are designed for storage – such as Dropbox, OneDrive or Google Drive – are good places, especially if you have your data password protected.

Check Your Phone Insurance

If you purchased insurance or any sort of protection when you bought your phone, it’s a good idea to double check what it covers. Many plans will cover against loss, theft and damage, saving hundreds on a replacement device that can be, in most cases, delivered the next day. Other coverage options may include repair by authorized technicians using certified parts as well as tech support.

Make an Appointment With an Authorized Service Repair Center

Many carriers have service repair centers that can fix phones right in their stores. Make an appointment with your local service repair center online. Then, take your phone to the center on the day and time you select.

Depending on the state of your broken phone, repair time could take as little as a couple of hours or as long as five business days.

If you have an iPhone, you can also bring your phone to the nearest Apple Store to have it repaired.

What you should keep in mind

• The broken phone might be shipped to the carrier’s service center, where it can be repaired within five business days.
• Be sure to check if you have permission to get device help at any of your carrier’s stores.
• If you’re unable to go to the service center on the day you select, make sure to add someone else as a delegate so they can make repair-related transactions on your behalf.

What to do if you’re not near a service repair center

So, your broken phone needs repair, but you’re nowhere near a service repair center. Not a problem! If you have device protection with your carrier, you can submit a repair claim.

Once the claim is approved, your carrier will send a pre-paid label, instructions and envelope overnight. Then, using these materials, you can send your phone to an authorized service center. Repairs at the center take five business days on average.

If your broken phone doesn’t have protection, speak with your carrier’s customer service to learn about your available options.

Get a Phone Case

If your broken phone still works and you haven’t already done so, it may be finally time to get a phone case. Which phone case should you choose? Here are the most popular types of phone cases.

Back plate

This type of phone case is by far the most popular among smartphone users and the most widely-available, with all sorts of designs and colors. The back plate protects the back and sides of the phone, and some are made out of tough plastic designed to provide impact protection.

The covers also have holes cut out for the various features on each smartphone model. Be sure to know the model of your phone if you’re ordering a back-plate online.

One major downside to this phone case is that there is no protection for your screen. To get the most protection for your phone, consider getting a tempered glass screen protector along with your case. Visit your service provider’s store for more details.

Flip case + wallet

This type of case opens to have the phone on one side and smaller pouches to put credit cards or a driver’s license on the other. Flip cases are usually better made and are of better quality than back-plates, but they are a bit on the more expensive side as well to reflect the high quality. Another flip case advantage is that it covers the front of the smartphone, meaning the front is protected as well as the back and the sides.

Pouch

While this case might not be the most stylish looking, it is incredibly functional and protects your phone from any kind of damage. This case allows easy placement and removal of your phone, and it has a press button or Velcro flap to keep it secure. It’s a bit bulky, so you can’t just slip it and the phone in the back of your jeans. But, that adds to its protective value.

Leather case

This case can be similar to the flip case or the pouch in shape. The main difference, though, is that it’s made entirely out of leather. The leather is easy to clean, incredibly durable and resistant so you don’t have to worry about damaging your phone if or when you drop it.

Upgrade to a New Phone

If your broken phone is a total lost cause, it may be time for an upgrade. What this generally means is that you can get a new phone, start a new contract period and get a discounted contract price for the new phone. Check with your provider about eligibility and for the specifics.

Can’t afford a brand new phone? You can also buy a pre-owned phone. Pre-owned phones are phones that have been gently used and have gone through functional testing and inspection to make sure it is in good working condition.

Are there any other tips you have for someone with a broken phone? Let us know in the comments!