The Trend of Going Cover-Free: Minimalism or Status Symbol?

Time of India

17-05-2025

A mobile phone cover is often considered essential — a layer of protection as important as the device itself. However, a slow-growing trend of going cover-free is emerging, as users increasingly embrace their smartphones' original design.
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Experts note a global shift, but not as much in India. 'Only a small section of users are changing this habit with smartphones. Many now prefer no covers, as flaunting expensive devices has become a status symbol. It's common to see people discussing their phones socially, often purchasing them on the first day of launch,' says Delhi-based tech journalist Abhishek Baxi. But what makes users let their devices go naked?
REASONS TO GO COVER-FREE
Aesthetics play a significant role
Delhi-based Kamya Arora, who uses an iPhone 14 Pro, says, 'I click a lot of mirror selfies, and my gold-coloured phone only makes them look more stylish.'
For Mumbai-based Shivangi Jain, who has proudly used her phone cover-free for five years, it's all about showcasing the device's original design. She says, 'I prefer using the phone without a cover because it highlights the natural titanium colour, offers a better grip, and looks more aesthetically pleasing. Phone cases often hide the beauty, especially when you've chosen a colour or model for its appearance.'
Shedding the bulk
Bulkiness is another major reason users are ditching covers.
Bengaluru-based Hithaishi Chandrashekar says, 'The feel of the phone without a case is simply great. It felt like it reduced unnecessary weight.'
Delhi-based Vishal Sharma agrees, adding, 'Covers make the device bulky and take away the original touch and feel. Over time, I noticed they sometimes affect touch sensitivity, mic clarity, and charging port alignment.'
Shivangi also points out, 'Covers made the device uncomfortable to hold for long periods, and many cases trap heat, making phones hotter during heavy use.'
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Accidental shift
Kamya, who has been using her phone without a cover for over a year, recalls the shift starting almost accidentally. 'It started getting heated a lot while charging, especially with some covers," she says. 'So I made it a practice to charge my phone without it, and eventually I got into the habit of using it cover-free. Plus, I love how sleek and beautiful my phone looks without a case.'
FACING THE FEAR OF DROPS
Going cover-free does come with risks.
'There have been some terrible drops, especially during rushed moments,' admits Shivangi. 'But surprisingly, the phone has held up well — just a few minor dents over the years.' For others, the adjustment was quick.
Hithaishi recalls, 'There were a few near-drops initially… but I soon got used to it and haven't had any major damage.' Vishal shares a similar experience: 'No major drops or damage. Knowing there's no external protection makes me automatically more careful.'
HANDLING WITH CARE
Users say going cover-free has made them more mindful. Kamya, for instance, is cautious about her phone's exposed camera. 'Since the camera juts out, I always keep it face down to avoid scratches. Plus, I have a good screen guard,' she says. Similarly, Akash Singh shares, 'I carry my phone either in my hand, a separate pocket, or a sling bag to avoid scratches. Just being a little extra careful helps — I haven't had many drops.
' Vishal adds, 'I'm much more conscious now. I avoid placing it screen-down, near rough surfaces, or with keys or a lighter.'
IS INDIA READY FOR THE SHIFT?
Explaining the shift, a tech expert, Manish Tiwari, says, 'There's a gradual decline in phone case purchases, especially among premium phone users who trust the durability of their devices. More people are shifting towards going cover-free, driven by minimalism, environmental concerns, and a deeper appreciation for the design of their phones.
Many feel bulky cases hide the beauty of their investment.'
'High-end phones often have official covers made by third-party manufacturers, tailored to each model and of superior quality — but priced higher. In contrast, unofficial covers sold by hawkers are cheaper and lower in quality. Despite this, a large proportion of customers in India still buy these unofficial cases, with very few opting to go without a cover entirely,' says Baxi.
RISKS OF COVER-FREE PHONES
- Higher risk of physical damage
- A scratched or dented phone often fetches a lower price if you plan to sell or exchange it later
- Exposure to dust and dirt
- No extra protection for camera bumps
PRECAUTIONS WHEN GOING COVER-FREE
- Invest in a good-quality screen protector
- Avoid placing phones on abrasive or rough surfaces
- Prefer purchasing water-resistant phones for added protection
- Use protective pouches or sleeves for safe storage when not in use
- Avoid placing the phone in the same pocket as keys, coins, or other sharp objects to prevent scratches
(
as suggested by Manish Tiwari, tech expert
)
Modern smartphones are becoming more durable, with manufacturers investing in tougher materials like ceramic, titanium, and advanced Gorilla Glass. These innovations make protective cases less necessary, as they help prevent damage from drops and scratches
- Manish Tiwari, tech expert
At first, I kept switching between using a cover and going without. I even bought new covers, hoping one would feel right. But nothing matched the phone's sleekness. Eventually, I realised I preferred the phone's original feel and design
- Shivangi Jain