Apple says to leave the iPhone Duo’s nano-texture cover layer alone. Naturally, I want to see what happens when I peel it off.
This is the film over the inner display, rather than the display itself. Apple calls it an integral part of the screen, so there is a little more riding on this than peeling the plastic off a new phone.
Getting Under the Film
I start with a little heat and a plastic prying card. A metal tool would scratch things up, which is a pretty bad way to begin an experiment on a folding screen.
Once I get under the edge, I can start lifting the film. It comes away pretty easily. Compared with the other removal videos I’ve seen, there is not much residue left behind on this one.
What Changes Once It Is Off?
With the film removed, the phone still looks fine and works well in my initial check. The difference I notice is the fold: the crease looks a bit more obvious without that layer over it.
That is the result on this phone immediately after removal. I have not established how the uncovered screen will hold up over time.
Why I Would Leave Yours Alone
Apple’s handling guidance explains that the cover layer reduces glare and reflections and protects the inner display from scratches and dents. Apple also says the screen’s touch and viewing experience is optimized with that layer in place.
Peeling it off answers my question, but it does not give me a reason to recommend doing it. The screen still works here, and now I can see the crease more clearly.
I’m with Apple on this one. Don’t try this yourself.
