Chosen Solution
My s8 was apparently damaged while in my pocket (phone is 2 wks old, never dropped). Damage is limited to a small (5mm) part on the lower corner, and I’m still able to use the touch functions. (turned on developer options, and feature that lights-up where touched - and entire screen touch still works, even where glass is broken.) I have put some clear plastic adhesive tape over the broken part of the glass to prevent cracks from spreading as a temporary fix. Touch function still works, can I simply replace the front glass? I see some options on ebay for about $30. (incl tools). “S8 Glass Replacement Screen Lens Front Outer Repair Parts”. (I do not see this available on ifixit - otherwise I’d prefer ifixit as a vendor, of course). Or do I need to buy a whole new digitizer (@$300)?
Hello, You technically could replace only the glass, but it would be really expensive as you would need a special machine to freeze the adhesive that holds the glass and the display together, so the best thing to do is to buy a new digitizer.
Only replace the front glass need many machines like Freezing separate mechine, Bubble remove machine and others mechines.
This question is old, but my front glass broke from a fall, but the screen itself is undamaged. There are plenty of tutorials on youtube showing how to replace the front glass without disassembling the phone and no need for specialized machinery; some simple purpose utensils, a hair dryer/heat gun, and isopropyl alcohol is all that’s needed.
