Why Most Mobile Phones Use Glass Instead of More Durable Plastic
When considering the choice of materials used in mobile phone manufacturing, one might wonder why glass is predominantly utilized despite its fragility. This article explores the reasons behind this decision, examining not only the manufacturing process and the practical benefits but also the aesthetic and functional aspects that contribute to this choice.
The Manufacturing Process
The manufacturing process plays a significant role in determining the materials used for mobile phones. While plastic offers increased durability and lower production costs, the complexity and precision required for producing a mobile phone make glass a more suitable choice. Here are several key reasons:
Perfect Dimensional Stability: Glass maintains a consistent shape and size, even at elevated temperatures. This consistency is crucial for the precise operations required during manufacturing.
Cost and Weight: Glass is more expensive and heavier to produce compared to plastic. However, the added cost is often justified by the final product's performance and market demand. The lightweight nature of plastic, while beneficial, is not as significant when weighed against the need for high-quality, consistent performance.
Practical Benefits of Glass
While plastic may be more durable, its softer nature makes it more susceptible to scratches and damage. This is particularly important for the visibility of the screen. The use of glass ensures that the phone's display remains clear and undamaged, extending the phone's lifespan before it needs to be replaced or repaired.
Wireless Charging: Another critical factor is wireless charging. For wireless charging to be effective, there must be no metallic elements that can disrupt the electromagnetic field. Both plastic and glass are ideal choices, but glass is often preferred for its superior optical properties and the ease with which it can be used in wireless charging systems.
Customer Demand and Aesthetic Appeal: Consumers often prefer the aesthetic appeal of a glass-backed phone. This sleek appearance, combined with the durability provided by Gorilla Glass, enhances the overall appeal of the device. While a plastic-backed phone might be less expensive and more impact-resistant, the instant appeal of a glass phone is hard to match. This visual consistency and premium feel are significant selling points for many consumers.
Historical Context and Steve Jobs
The history of mobile phone design is intertwined with personal preferences and innovation. One of the defining moments in this history is attributed to Steve Jobs, co-founder and visionary of Apple Inc.
Scratch Issue: Steve Jobs experienced a significant issue with the first prototype iPhone he tested at home. After carrying the phone in his pocket alongside keys, he returned to the office finding the plastic screen scratched. This incident led to a radical redesign, resulting in the widespread use of glass in smartphones.
Though this anecdote is dramatic, it encapsulates the importance of user experience and durability in product design. Glass became the preferred material for the transparency, scratch resistance, and overall elegance of iPhone's glass faces.
Personal Experience: From a personal standpoint, the author prefers glass for its beauty and protective qualities. In contrast to a plastic screen, which can suffer damage in cold weather, glass retains its clear and appealing appearance.
For these reasons, despite plastic's durability, the use of glass in mobile phones continues to dominate the market. The combination of aesthetics, performance, and market demand ensures that glass remains the material of choice in the telecommunications industry.