So you have a new iPhone (or iPad) but don't think you need a protective case or cover for it? Well, you might like to consider the results of a recent study completed by electronics insurers, SquareTrade. They revealed that 28% (nearly one-third) of iPhones are damaged beyond repair within the first two years of ownership! These iPhones are either completely damaged or they have suffered a broken screen rendering them useless to their owners.

Now, whilst SquareTrade did not indicate in their report the percentage of iPhones that were protected by a case or some other form of protective cover, it makes sense that if you are going to spend a few hundred dollars on a phone that you should also spend a few more to protect it.

There are basically two things that you can do to improve the chances of your iPhone surviving longer than two years:

1. Dress your iPhone in a protective case or cover. The range of iPhone cases and covers available is staggering. You can get plastic ones, silicone ones, wooden ones and even felt ones! When selecting a case for your iPhone make sure you look at the protective qualities as well as how good it looks! A good sturdy case that also looks good will cost in the region of $20 to $30.

2. Apply a screen protector to your iPhone. iPhone screen protectors are thin layers of see-through film that adheres to the front of your iPhone. These screens help to protect the delicate glass surface from scratches. When purchasing your iPhone case check to see if it comes with a free screen protector - many do!

Finally, if you really want to make sure that you won't be left without your iPhone as a result of an accident then you should also consider purchasing phone insurance.