New Corning survey of more than 1,500 smartphone users across India finds damaged glass is pushing consumers to upgrade sooner, underscoring the importance of durable cover materials like Corning® Gorilla® Glass
Corning Incorporated (NYSE: GLW) today released findings from a new Indian consumer study showing that the majority of Indian smartphone users (53%) say broken glass caused them to buy a new phone earlier than planned. 87% of smartphone users reported that they dropped their device in the past year, and 56% of them said that they felt anxious about drops because of concerns about cover-glass durability.
Indian consumers are increasingly prioritizing durability, long-term reliability, and display performance. The study, conducted via an online survey of 1,509 smartphone users across India, highlights how everyday drops, wear and tear, and repair costs are informing consumer decision-making across price and usage segments – and motivating consumers to want phones with tougher cover materials, like Corning® Gorilla® Glass.
“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,” said Andrew Beck, Vice President and General Manager, Corning® Gorilla® Glass. “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.”
The impact of device damage extends beyond inconvenience. When a drop results in cover glass breakage, one in five consumers’ phones required professional repair or replacement, and nearly half of the consumers reported spending more than INR 2,000 on repairs.
Many consumers also reported stress, disruption, and anxiety linked to broken smartphone glass, underscoring why durability is increasingly tied to satisfaction and brand trust. Specifically, the study revealed that 61% of Indian consumers said durability claims influenced their smartphone purchase decisions. Among the most valued durability features are:
- Drop protection (52%)
- Scratch resistance (48%)
- Equal front and back protection (52%)
The study also demonstrated strong awareness of Corning® Gorilla® Glass:
- 66% of respondents recognized Corning® Gorilla® Glass, the highest percentage among cover glass brands cited in the survey
- 64% of consumers said they are more likely to consider a smartphone they know features Gorilla® Glass
Expectations extend beyond durability alone. Nearly six in ten users (58%) said display clarity is a top priority, reflecting the growing role of smartphones in work, entertainment, and everyday communication. Additionally, 53% prioritized camera lens durability, highlighting that as cameras become one of the most advanced and valued features on a smartphone, damage to the lens can significantly impact usability and overall device performance.
As smartphone usage intensifies, consumers are showing a willingness to invest in better materials. 74% of respondents said they are willing to pay more for enhanced cover-material features, such as advanced durability and improved optical performance.
“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,” Beck added.
Methodology: The findings are based on a Corning-commissioned online survey of 1,509 smartphone users across India, conducted in November and December 2025. The sample included a balanced gender split and representation across age groups, regions, smartphone operating systems, device segments, and user profiles, including camera centric users, gamers, power users, basic users, and professionals.
About Corning Incorporated
Corning (www.corning.com) is one of the world’s leading innovators in materials science, with a 175 year track record of life-changing inventions. Corning applies its unparalleled expertise in glass science, ceramic science, and optical physics, along with its deep manufacturing and engineering capabilities to develop category-defining products that transform industries and enhance people’s lives. Corning succeeds through sustained investment in RD&E, a unique combination of material and process innovation, and deep, trust-based relationships with customers who are global leaders in their industries. Corning’s capabilities are versatile and synergistic, which allows the company to evolve to meet changing market needs, while also helping its customers capture new opportunities in dynamic industries. Today, Corning’s markets include optical communications, mobile consumer electronics, display, automotive, solar, semiconductors, and life sciences.
