Tip of the week…

A cracked phone screen—now what?

■ Assess the damage. Set the phone flat under good light and gently test for evidence that the screen is still secure. If the screen is badly damaged, act quickly to back up all your data if you’re able to.

■ Tape it. A cracked screen can be sealed with clear packing tape, allowing you to use the screen without cutting your fingertip or losing slivers of glass. If you work carefully and trim the excess with an X-Acto blade, the tape “may look almost like a screen protector”—which is another option that might extend the phone’s useful life.

■ Replace it yourself. DIY screen replacement is tricky, but iFixit.com publishes detailed repair guides. The website also sells the screens and tool kits you’ll need.

■ Find a pro. Best Buy repairs iPhones and Samsungs, and uBreakiFix handles even more brands. iPhone users can turn to Apple as well.

Source: PopularMechanics.com