A recent consumer study released by Corning Incorporated reveals that durability and long-term reliability have become primary considerations for smartphone buyers in India. According to the data, everyday device damage is heavily influencing both purchasing decisions and brand loyalty, with 53% of Indian smartphone users reporting that a broken screen forced them to upgrade to a new device sooner than intended.
The findings highlight a widespread vulnerability to accidental damage. The study indicates that 87% of respondents dropped their smartphones at least once in the past year, leading 56% to experience anxiety regarding cover-glass durability.
The Economic and Psychological Toll of Device Damage
The consequences of physical damage extend past minor cosmetic flaws or temporary inconveniences. According to the study, one in five drops resulting in broken cover glass required professional repair or complete device replacement. These incidents carry a notable financial impact, with nearly half of the surveyed consumers spending upwards of INR 2,000 on repairs.
Beyond the financial aspect, the report notes that broken screens cause measurable stress and daily disruption for users. Consequently, 61% of Indian consumers stated that explicit durability claims directly influence which smartphone they choose to buy.
When evaluating device resilience, respondents prioritized specific protective features:
- Drop protection (52%)
- Equal front and back protection (52%)
- Scratch resistance (48%)
Brand Recognition and Evolving Display Expectations
The survey measured high market awareness for specialized cover materials. Corning® Gorilla® Glass was recognized by 66% of respondents—the highest recognition rate among the cover glass brands listed in the study. Furthermore, 64% of consumers indicated a higher likelihood of considering a smartphone if they knew it featured Gorilla® Glass.
Consumer expectations are also expanding to include optical quality alongside physical toughness:
| Desired Feature | Percentage of Consumer Priority |
| Display Clarity | 58% |
| Camera Lens Durability | 53% |
As smartphone cameras grow more advanced, damage to the lens assembly is increasingly viewed as a critical failure point that compromises the device’s overall utility.
A Willingness to Pay Premium Prices for Longevity
As smartphones become more deeply integrated into professional and personal routines, Indian consumers are demonstrating a readiness to invest more upfront for better build quality. The study concludes that 74% of respondents are willing to pay a premium for enhanced cover-material features, including advanced durability and superior optical performance.
Andrew Beck, Vice President and General Manager, Corning® Gorilla® Glass, said:
As smartphones become even more vital to how people work, communicate, and entertain themselves, durability is no longer a secondary specification. It’s central to the overall device experience. Consumers are telling us they want devices that can better withstand real-world use without compromising performance, design, or clarity. Gorilla Glass is engineered to deliver advanced, science-backed materials that give consumers greater confidence in the products they choose.
As smartphones are used longer, more extensively, and in more demanding environments by consumers, this study reinforces the value of pairing premium design and functionality with proven durability. Consumers don’t have to sacrifice how their devices look, feel, or perform over time.
Methodology Note: The insights are compiled from a Corning-commissioned online survey conducted between November and December 2025. The study sampled 1,509 smartphone users across India, maintaining a balanced gender distribution and representation across various age groups, regions, operating systems, price segments, and user profiles (including gamers, professionals, and power users).