Business Insider
apple
| Source: Mastodon | Original article
Samsung’s next flagship, the Galaxy S26 Ultra, has sparked a quiet debate among early‑leakers, while Business Insider’s latest hands‑on review has put the iPhone 13’s “Ceramic Shield” under the microscope. The outlet’s test‑run shows the iPhone’s glass can shrug off everyday scratches that would mar most smartphones, yet a sharp key or a sand‑laden pocket still leaves a mark. The report, published on Business Insider’s tech guide, concludes the screen is “surprisingly scratch‑resistant, but not invincible.”
The Galaxy S26 Ultra rumor, circulating on Japanese tech forums, suggests the device may ship without a built‑in protective layer, prompting some to advise “keeping it hidden from the captain” – a tongue‑in‑cheek warning that the phone could benefit from a screen protector despite Samsung’s usual emphasis on durability. If true, the contrast with Apple’s reinforced glass could shift consumer expectations in the premium segment, where many users now forgo protectors to preserve a pristine look.
Why it matters is twofold. First, durability directly influences purchase decisions in a market where flagship prices hover above €1,200. A proven scratch‑resistant surface can justify a premium, while perceived fragility may drive buyers toward competitors or add accessory spend. Second, the narrative feeds a broader industry trend: manufacturers are betting on advanced glass technologies—Apple’s ceramic‑infused sapphire blend and Samsung’s rumored “Ultra‑Shield” polymer—to differentiate products without inflating thickness.
What to watch next includes Samsung’s official launch details, which should confirm whether a protective coating will be standard or optional. Independent drop‑and‑scratch tests from consumer labs will likely follow, offering a side‑by‑side comparison with Apple’s claims. Finally, the accessory market will gauge demand for third‑party protectors, especially if the S26 Ultra’s screen proves less resilient than its predecessor. The coming weeks could reshape how durability is marketed and priced across the flagship arena.
Sources
Back to AIPULSEN