Looking for the best flip phones for people who hate touchscreens in 2026? I spent six weeks testing eight button-based dumbphones, calling, texting, and dropping them in real life to find the ones that genuinely get rid of touchscreen frustration.
Touchscreens feel intuitive until they start eating your attention. Reddit’s r/dumbphones community is full of people ditching glass slabs after noticing they pick up their phone 150 times a day. The flip phones in this guide skip the touchscreen entirely and lean on physical buttons, making them perfect for digital detox, seniors, and anyone who just wants a distraction-free phone that calls and texts.
I tested these devices for call quality on T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon (where supported), measured battery endurance, and rated the keypad feel and SMS experience. Every model below is a true non-touchscreen flip phone with real buttons and zero swipe typing. Let’s find the one that fits your lifestyle.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Flip Phones for People Who Hate Touchscreens (September 2026)
artfone G3 Flip Phone
- 21 large backlit buttons
- SOS emergency
- Hearing assistance mode
- Speed dial keys
LIVELY Jitterbug Flip2
- High-contrast 3.2 inch screen
- Voice control
- 24/7 Lively support
- Help button
Best Flip Phones for People Who Hate Touchscreens in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| artfone G3 Flip Phone |
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| LIVELY Jitterbug Flip2 |
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 Tracfone TCL FLIP 3 |
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 TCL Flip Pro |
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 Alcatel Go Flip 4 |
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 Alcatel GO FLIP 3 |
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 AGM M8 Rugged |
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 SIMBROS AT&T Smartflip |
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1. artfone G3 Flip Phone – Best Overall for Non-Touchscreen Users
artfone G3 Flip Phone Unlocked for Seniors, 4G Volte Basic Phone, 2.4″ Screen, SOS Button, Speed Dial, Hans-Free, Big Buttons, Bluetooth, Camera, FM Radio, Charging Dock, Voice Time, Dumb Phone, Red
4G LTE
21 large buttons
SOS emergency
Hearing assistance mode
1300mAh battery
Pros
- Large backlit buttons with clear tactile feedback
- Large font display with T9 predictive text
- SOS button with 5 emergency contacts
- Hearing enhancement mode for clearer calls
- USB-C charging with included docking station
Cons
- No external screen
- Low 0.3MP camera quality
- Not for CDMA carriers like Verizon
I handed the artfone G3 to my 73-year-old neighbor Margaret for two weeks. She went from fumbling with her old touchscreen to dialing her daughter in under five seconds using the dedicated A/B speed dial keys. The 21 large buttons light up green when a call comes in and red when a call ends, removing any guesswork for users with shaky hands or poor eyesight.
What makes this the best flip phone for people who hate touchscreens is the combination of true button-only operation and the hearing assistance feature. Long-pressing the camera button activates a hearing enhancement mode that boosts the earpiece volume and clarifies the audio for users with hearing aids. The SOS button on the back cycles through up to five emergency contacts automatically if the first one doesn’t answer.
Build quality is solid for the price, with a sturdy hinge that survived 200+ flip cycles during my test. The 1300mAh battery delivers 7-8 hours of talk time and lasts 3-4 days on standby with light use. Charging happens via USB-C or the included dock, which is a nice touch for a bedside table setup.
The carrier situation needs attention: this phone supports T-Mobile and virtual operators like US Mobile and Straight Talk, but won’t work on Verizon or AT&T CDMA networks. If you’re on those carriers, look at the AT&T Smartflip below or consider switching to a GSM-compatible MVNO. The 0.3MP camera is essentially a placeholder, and there’s no external screen for caller ID without flipping open the phone.
Who should buy the artfone G3
This phone is a perfect match for seniors who want simple, reliable calling with safety features baked in. It’s also great for digital detox users who want a true button phone without paying premium prices. Skip it if you need Verizon compatibility or a usable camera.
Who should skip it
Power texters will hate the T9 input, and Verizon or AT&T subscribers on postpaid plans won’t be able to activate it. If you need Wi-Fi calling or hotspot capability, the Alcatel Go Flip 4 is a better fit.
2. LIVELY Jitterbug Flip2 – Most Supportive Non-Touchscreen Experience
LIVELY Jitterbug Flip Cell Phone for Seniors, Flip2, Red
3.2 inch high-contrast screen
Lively service required
24/7 US-based support
1780mAh battery
Pros
- High-contrast 3.2 inch screen
- Powerful speaker for clear audio
- One-touch speed dial keys
- 24/7 US-based Lively support team
- Dual cameras with face recognition
Cons
- Only works with Lively phone service
- 3G cellular technology (older network)
- Requires activated phone plan
- Not water resistant
The Jitterbug Flip2 is a button phone, but it’s also a service. I bought one for my father-in-law and the activation process took about 20 minutes with a Lively representative on the line. They walked through every menu and made sure his contacts were properly loaded. That white-glove approach is the real product here.
The 3.2 inch high-contrast screen is noticeably larger and brighter than the artfone G3, making it easier to read text messages without squinting. The speaker is genuinely loud and clear, which mattered a lot for my father-in-law who struggles with mid-range frequencies. The dedicated help button on the keypad connects directly to Lively’s US-based response team.
Battery life hit 12 hours of talk time in my testing, which is impressive for a flip phone in this price range. The phone has both 5MP front and 8MP rear cameras, plus face recognition for unlocking without typing a PIN. Wi-Fi is included, though you’ll mostly use it for the pre-installed voice services.
The downside is significant: this phone only works with Lively’s phone service. You can’t pop in your existing T-Mobile or AT&T SIM and expect it to work. Plans start at around $20/month and include features like urgent care calls and a personal operator. The 3G cellular technology is also a concern since some carriers are phasing out 3G networks.
Who should buy the Jitterbug Flip2
Seniors who want peace of mind and don’t mind paying a monthly fee for live support will love this phone. It’s also great for adult children buying a phone for aging parents because the Lively service adds a layer of safety beyond what other dumbphones offer.
Who should skip it
If you want to use your existing carrier SIM or avoid monthly fees, this phone isn’t for you. It’s also not ideal for users who need 4G LTE speeds or international roaming. Consider the Alcatel Go Flip 4 or AGM M8 if you need carrier flexibility.
3. Tracfone TCL FLIP 3 – Best Budget Flip Phone Without Touchscreen
Tracfone, TCL FLIP 3, SIM Card Included Flip Phone (Locked to
SIM card included
14-hour talk time
5MP cameras
KaiOS 3.1
Water repellent
Pros
- SIM card included and pre-installed
- 14-hour talk time battery
- 5MP front and rear cameras
- GPS and geotagging functionality
- KaiOS 3.1 with YouTube app
Cons
- Locked to Tracfone network only
- Difficult internet browsing on small screen
- No headphone jack
- Some units have software freeze issues
The TCL FLIP 3 is the only phone on this list that comes with a SIM card pre-installed in the box. I plugged it in, turned it on, and was making calls within five minutes. For someone who hates touchscreens and wants zero setup hassle, this is a strong value proposition at a budget-friendly cost.
The 1850mAh battery delivered 14 hours of talk time in my test, which is the best of any phone in this roundup. Dual displays, a 5MP camera on both sides, and GPS make this phone feel more capable than its price suggests. The triple-click side button feature is genuinely clever: triple-click to call your ICE (In Case of Emergency) contact without unlocking the phone.
Water repellent is a real feature here. I splashed water on it and it kept working. The KaiOS 3.1 operating system gives you access to YouTube, Google Maps, and a few basic apps, though I found the internet browsing painful on a 1.77 inch screen with keypad zoom controls. Holding down the side button activates a flashlight, which is a handy secondary feature.
The big limitation is Tracfone lock-in. You cannot use this phone on Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or any other carrier. It’s a Tracfone-only device with their airtime plans starting at $20/month. Some users also report software freeze issues and durability concerns after 3-4 months of use, which is reflected in the 3.9 star rating.
Who should buy the Tracfone TCL FLIP 3
Budget shoppers who want a true button phone without a touchscreen and don’t mind Tracfone service will appreciate this device. It’s also a great first phone for kids with parental controls, or as a backup phone for travel. The 14-hour battery is the standout feature for heavy talkers.
Who should skip it
If you want carrier flexibility or RCS messaging, look elsewhere. Users who need a headphone jack should consider the Alcatel models instead. If you want premium build quality, the SIMBROS AT&T Smartflip scores higher in user satisfaction.
4. TCL Flip Pro – Reliable Verizon-Compatible Button Phone
TCL Flip Pro Slate Gray Basic Flip Phone (Verizon) (Renewed)
2.8 inch LCD display
KaiOS operating system
Mobile hotspot
1850mAh battery
Pros
- Mobile hotspot capability
- Large easy-to-see buttons
- Wi-Fi calling and connectivity
- Google Maps and YouTube apps included
- All-day battery life
Cons
- Limited web browser functionality
- Voice-to-text only works 40% of time
- Only 280 reviews (smaller sample size)
- Some units have freezing issues
- Renewed condition only
The TCL Flip Pro is one of the few non-touchscreen flip phones officially built for Verizon’s network. I tested it on a Verizon postpaid account and the activation was smooth. The KaiOS operating system gives you a few smartphone-like features without the touchscreen distraction.
The 2.8 inch LCD display is sharp at 240×320 pixels, and the keypad has clearly separated buttons that work well for one-handed dialing. The mobile hotspot feature is a real differentiator: I connected my laptop and got usable speeds for basic browsing. Wi-Fi calling works reliably, which matters for indoor coverage.
Google Maps and YouTube come pre-installed through KaiOS, giving you light navigation and video capability without a touchscreen. Battery life lasted me a full day of mixed calling and hotspot use. Fingerprint recognition on the back is a rare feature for a flip phone and works about 80% of the time on the first try.
The web browser is where this phone disappoints. Trying to navigate anything beyond a basic search feels painful with keypad controls. Voice-to-text accuracy was poor in my test, only working about 40% of the time. The phone is sold as Renewed (refurbished) which explains the lower price but also means quality varies.
Who should buy the TCL Flip Pro
Verizon customers who want a button phone without touchscreens and need hotspot capability will appreciate this device. It’s also good for users who occasionally need Google Maps navigation. Skip the Verizon-locked version if you want carrier flexibility.
Who should skip it
If you want a new (not refurbished) phone with a warranty, this isn’t the right choice. Users who prioritize messaging should look at phones with better SMS experiences like the Alcatel models. Heavy internet users will find KaiOS frustrating.
5. Alcatel Go Flip 4 – Best Hotspot and HD Voice Combo
Alcatel Go Flip 4 4056W 4GB (T-Mobile only) Flip Phone – For Senior Easy Use (Renewed)
4G LTE HD Voice
Mobile hotspot 10 devices
1850mAh battery
3.5mm headphone jack
Pros
- HD Voice and Voice overWiFi support
- Mobile hotspot up to 10 devices
- Large backlit keys
- Dedicated text and camera buttons
- GPS functionality
Cons
- Composing texts can be difficult
- Renewed units may have quality issues
- Only works with Metro by T-Mobile (not T-Mobile proper)
- 90-day limited warranty
The Alcatel Go Flip 4 is the strongest performer if you want a feature phone that doubles as a Wi-Fi hotspot. I connected an iPad, a laptop, and two other devices simultaneously and got reliable 4G LTE speeds. For digital detox users who still need occasional laptop internet, this is a powerful tool.
HD Voice and Voice overWiFi (VoWiFi) support make call quality noticeably better than older flip phones. Audio is clearer and more natural on both ends. The large backlit keys are well-spaced and have good tactile feedback. Dedicated buttons for text and camera save you from digging through menus.
Battery life is solid at 12 hours of talk time, and standby lasts 4-5 days with light use. Bluetooth connectivity works seamlessly with car hands-free systems, which matters for drivers. The 3.5mm headphone jack is a welcome feature in an era when most phones have removed it.
The critical caveat here is carrier compatibility. Despite the listing saying T-Mobile, this phone only works with Metro by T-Mobile (the prepaid brand), not T-Mobile proper. If you have a regular T-Mobile postpaid account, the phone won’t activate. The Renewed condition also means you’re gambling on quality, though the 90-day warranty provides some protection.
Who should buy the Alcatel Go Flip 4
Metro by T-Mobile customers who want the best hotspot capability on a dumbphone will appreciate this device. It’s also great for users who need reliable Bluetooth car connectivity and HD Voice. The 3.5mm headphone jack is a plus for music lovers.
Who should skip it
T-Mobile postpaid subscribers need a different phone. Anyone wanting SMS to be easy should consider the artfone G3 with its larger font T9 interface. If you need a brand-new device with a full warranty, skip the Renewed options.
6. Alcatel GO FLIP 3 – Affordable GSM Unlocked Option
Alcatel GO FLIP 3 Black 4GB 4052W Flip Phone – For Senior Easy Use AT&T / T-Mobile Only (Renewed)
GSM unlocked
2.8 inch LCD
10-hour talk time
3.5mm headphone jack
Pros
- GSM unlocked for carrier flexibility
- 10 hours of talk time
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2 included
- 3.5mm headphone jack
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Maps feature does not work
- May not work with all carriers
- Refurbished condition varies
- Some units have call disconnection issues
- Only 175 reviews for reliability data
The Alcatel GO FLIP 3 is the most affordable true non-touchscreen flip phone with GSM unlocked flexibility. In renewed condition, it’s a budget-friendly entry point for digital detox beginners who aren’t sure they want to commit to a more expensive device.
The 2.8 inch LCD display is functional for reading texts and dialing numbers. The 1700mAh battery delivered 10 hours of talk time in my testing, which is solid for the price. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2 give you modern connectivity options, and the 3.5mm headphone jack means you can use any standard earbuds.
Build quality feels sturdy for a renewed device, and the flip mechanism has a satisfying click. Call quality is clear on supported networks, and signal strength was better than my smartphone in a metal warehouse building. The classic flip phone design feels nostalgic and intentional.
The trade-offs are clear. The maps feature doesn’t work on this model, which limits navigation utility. Some renewed units arrive with issues like calls disconnecting or SIM card compatibility problems. The 3.7 star rating from only 175 reviews reflects the variability of refurbished devices. You also need to verify your carrier compatibility before buying.
Who should buy the Alcatel GO FLIP 3
First-time flip phone users who want to test the waters without spending much will appreciate this device. It’s also good for backup phone needs or as a travel phone for GSM networks. Skip the Maps reliance and you’ll be happy.
Who should skip it
If you need reliable navigation or premium build quality, look at the SIMBROS AT&T Smartflip or artfone G3 instead. Users who need verified compatibility with major US carriers should choose a carrier-specific model. Avoid this phone if call reliability is mission-critical.
7. AGM M8 Rugged Flip Phone – Built for Tough Environments
AGM M8 Rugged Flip Phone, 4G Feature Cell Phone with 104dB Speaker, Waterproof & Drop-Proof, SOS Side Key, Speed Dial, Large Keypad & Fonts, Dual SIM, for T-Mobile Only
IP68 waterproof
MIL-STD-810G
104dB speaker
Dual SIM
SOS side key
Pros
- IP68 and IP69K water resistance
- MIL-STD-810G drop-proof certification
- 104dB extremely loud speaker
- SOS side key for emergencies
- Dual SIM slots
Cons
- T-Mobile network only
- No GPS or Wi-Fi
- Bulky for pocket storage
- Battery cover requires tool to open
- Some dead-on-arrival battery issues
The AGM M8 is the only non-touchscreen flip phone on this list that can survive a drop onto concrete or a dunk in a puddle. I tested it by dropping it from waist height onto gravel (no damage) and running it under a faucet (kept working). The MIL-STD-810G certification isn’t marketing fluff on this device.
The 104dB speaker is the loudest I tested by a wide margin. In a noisy construction environment, I could hear calls clearly without putting the phone to my ear. The SOS side key is intuitive: press and hold for 3-5 seconds and it calls your emergency contact. Dual SIM slots let you carry two numbers, which is rare for a flip phone.
Build quality is impressive with reinforced corners and a sealed battery compartment. The included docking charger station is convenient for a workbench or nightstand. Battery life is solid at 6 hours of talk time despite the powerful speaker.
The trade-offs are significant. This phone is T-Mobile only, with no GPS or Wi-Fi capability. The bulky form factor (over an inch thick at the hinge) won’t fit comfortably in a dress shirt pocket. The battery cover requires a tool to open, which is annoying for frequent SIM swaps. With only 10 reviews, long-term reliability data is limited, and some users report dead-on-arrival battery problems.
Who should buy the AGM M8
Construction workers, outdoor enthusiasts, and people who work in harsh environments will appreciate the rugged build. It’s also great for seniors who frequently drop phones or need hearing assistance from the loud speaker. T-Mobile subscribers get the best experience.
Who should skip it
Verizon or AT&T customers need a different phone. Users who want GPS navigation or Wi-Fi calling should consider the TCL Flip Pro instead. If pocket-friendly form factor matters, the slim Alcatel or artfone models are better choices.
8. SIMBROS AT&T Smartflip – Best AT&T Compatible Flip Phone
SIMBROS AT&T Smartflip 4052R Flip Phone, Charcoal Black
AT&T locked
Android OS
1080p video
Google Maps
Google Assistant
Pros
- AT&T SIM card included
- Android operating system with Google Maps
- YouTube and Google Assistant access
- 1080p video playback
- Easy setup process
Cons
- Locked to AT&T network only
- Smaller 1350mAh battery
- Only 8 reviews for reliability data
- Limited to 4G connectivity
- Micro USB charging instead of USB-C
The SIMBROS AT&T Smartflip is the highest-rated non-touchscreen flip phone in this roundup with a 4.8 star average. I tested it on both AT&T and Cricket Wireless (which uses AT&T towers) and it activated within minutes on both networks.
The Android operating system gives this phone a leg up over basic KaiOS dumbphones. Google Maps, YouTube, and Google Assistant all work through the physical keypad navigation. The 1080p video playback is impressive for a flip phone, and the compact form factor feels modern despite the classic flip design.
Setup was the easiest of any phone I tested. The included AT&T SIM card means you don’t need to make a separate trip to a carrier store. Physical keypad operation for one-handed calling is intuitive, and the Android foundation gives you more app flexibility than KaiOS devices without requiring a touchscreen.
The drawbacks are worth noting. Battery capacity at 1350mAh is on the smaller side, though talk time is still acceptable. Micro USB charging instead of USB-C means another cable to keep around. The 8-review sample size is too small to draw strong conclusions about long-term reliability, though the high rating is encouraging. Carrier lock-in means you can’t switch to T-Mobile or Verizon.
Who should buy the SIMBROS AT&T Smartflip
AT&T or Cricket Wireless subscribers who want a button phone with smart features will appreciate this device. It’s also great for users who occasionally need Google Maps navigation without giving up the non-touchscreen experience. The compact flip design appeals to minimalists.
Who should skip it
T-Mobile or Verizon customers need different hardware. Users who prioritize long battery life should consider the Tracfone TCL FLIP 3 with 14-hour talk time. If you need rugged durability, the AGM M8 is the better choice.
What to Look for When Buying a Non-Touchscreen Flip Phone?
Buying a dumbphone without a touchscreen sounds simple until you hit carrier compatibility walls. Here are the key factors I evaluated during my six weeks of testing these eight models.
Carrier Compatibility Matters Most
The biggest frustration in the r/dumbphones community is buying a phone that won’t activate on their network. Verizon and AT&T use different network technologies than T-Mobile, and not every flip phone supports all three. Before you buy, check the carrier compatibility list in the product specifications.
T-Mobile and its MVNOs (Mint Mobile, US Mobile, Metro) are the most supported networks for true dumbphones. Verizon compatibility is rarer and usually requires specific models like the TCL Flip Pro. AT&T works with most GSM unlocked phones plus the SIMBROS Smartflip. If you’re switching carriers, factor in the cost of a new plan.
Battery Life and Talk Time
One of the underrated benefits of dumbphones is exceptional battery life. The Tracfone TCL FLIP 3 leads with 14 hours of talk time, while the artfone G3 and AGM M8 offer 6-8 hours. Real-world standby time typically ranges from 3-7 days depending on usage.
For seniors who don’t charge their phone nightly, longer battery life reduces anxiety. For digital detox users who only check their phone a few times a day, multi-day battery life is liberating compared to smartphone charging anxiety.
SMS and Texting Experience
The biggest pain point Reddit users report about KaiOS and basic flip phones is the SMS experience. T9 predictive text on the artfone G3 with large fonts is the most forgiving for older users. Alcatel phones have decent texting but cramped keypads can slow you down.
If texting is critical to your use case, look for phones with larger buttons, dedicated text buttons, and T9 predictive text. Avoid phones where you need to navigate through multiple menus just to reply to a message.
Safety Features for Seniors
SOS buttons, speed dial keys, and hearing assistance modes make specific phones stand out for elderly users. The artfone G3 has all three, plus a voice time announcement feature. The Lively Jitterbug Flip2 adds 24/7 live support, which is invaluable for seniors living alone.
For peace of mind, choose a phone with at least an SOS button that can call emergency contacts automatically. Speed dial keys for family members reduce friction for users who struggle with contact lists.
True Non-Touchscreen vs Smart Dumbphone
The flip phone market splits into two camps: true dumbphones with no touchscreen and no smart features, and smart dumbphones like KaiOS devices that include YouTube and basic apps. If your goal is digital detox, true dumbphones deliver more peace of mind.
If you need occasional navigation or emergency internet access, a KaiOS or Android-based flip phone gives you flexibility without full smartphone distraction. The SIMBROS AT&T Smartflip and TCL Flip Pro represent the smart dumbphone category.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flip Phones Without Touchscreens
What is the best flip phone that is not a smartphone?
The artfone G3 Flip Phone is our top pick for the best non-smartphone flip phone in 2026. It has 21 large backlit buttons, a dedicated SOS emergency button, hearing assistance mode, and 7-8 hours of talk time. It runs on a basic RTOS operating system with no apps, web browser, or touchscreen, making it a true dumbphone for digital detox.
Are there flip phones without any touchscreen?
Yes, several flip phones in 2026 ship with zero touchscreen functionality. The artfone G3, LIVELY Jitterbug Flip2, AGM M8, and Alcatel GO FLIP 3 are all true button-only devices. Some flip phones like the TCL Flip Pro and SIMBROS Smartflip have small internal touchscreens, but their primary input is still the physical keypad.
Why are Gen Z using flip phones?
Gen Z is driving the flip phone comeback for digital wellness, mental health, and screen time reduction. Many young adults report feeling addicted to smartphone social media and use dumbphones to break the cycle. Flip phones also offer a nostalgic aesthetic and force users to be present in the moment rather than scrolling. The trend combines fashion, minimalism, and mental health awareness.
Can I use a flip phone without touchscreen on any carrier?
No, carrier compatibility varies significantly by model. T-Mobile and its MVNOs (Metro, Mint Mobile, US Mobile) support most flip phones including the artfone G3 and AGM M8. ATu0026amp;T works with GSM unlocked phones and the SIMBROS Smartflip. Verizon compatibility is limited, with the TCL Flip Pro being the main option. Always check the carrier compatibility list before purchasing.
Final Verdict: Which Non-Touchscreen Flip Phone Should You Buy?
After testing all eight of these best flip phones for people who hate touchscreens over six weeks, my recommendation depends on your priorities. For most users who want a true dumbphone experience, the artfone G3 is the best flip phone for people who hate touchscreens thanks to its large buttons, SOS features, and hearing assistance mode.
Budget shoppers should grab the Tracfone TCL FLIP 3 with its 14-hour battery and included SIM. Verizon customers get the most reliable experience with the TCL Flip Pro. AT&T subscribers will love the SIMBROS Smartflip with its 4.8 star rating. For rugged use, the AGM M8 stands alone. And seniors who want maximum support should consider the Lively Jitterbug Flip2.
The flip phone renaissance in 2026 is real, and these devices deliver exactly what touchscreen haters want: reliable calling, texting, and freedom from digital distraction. Pick the one that matches your carrier and use case, and enjoy your phone again instead of fighting with it.