Nano-texture iPad Pro scratch protection and durability

As already outlined, independent testing has demonstrated that nano-texture screens are softer and more vulnerable to damage from abrasive particles found in many environments.

If you have already purchased an iPad with a nano-texture screen, beyond ensuring that you take care to avoid inflicting damage, there is very little that you can do provide additional physical protection for the screen without eliminating the anti-reflection benefits of the more expensive screen.

You might, should you accept the risks, use a good quality laminated-glass screen protector (e.g. Zagg or Otterbox) - but in so doing will increase screen reflections. Reflections occur principally at the air/glass boundary. Good quality screen protectors do provide increased protection - the screen protector being easily and relatively cheaply replaced if damaged.

Consider that the optional nano-texture screen is intended to reduce screen reflection and glare from external light sources. By contrast, the standard glass option already benefits from Apple's very effective and robust anti-reflection and hard-coat surface treatments.

Anecdotal reports indicate that while the nano-texture finish is very effective in suppressing reflections, the screen images are slightly softer with less contrast.

Third-party testing of Apple's standard and nano-texture screen has demonstrated that the standard glass is considerably harder and more resistant to scratches and blemishes than the nano-texture finish. The nano-texture finish is much softer than regular glass - and as a consequence is more easily damaged.

Adding any form of screen protection over the nano-texture screen will completely obviate any visual benefit of anti-reflection surface - and, potentially, will damage the nano-texture surface treatment if the protection is subsequently removed.

Abrasive dust and dirt found in many environments can potentially damage the nano-texture finish when swiping with a finger, or when using an Apple Pencil. As such, an iPad Pro with standard glass will likely better withstand the rigours of regular use over time.

Consider that the iPad screen is the single most expensive component of an iPad - whereas a good quality screen protector is a sacrificial layer that is easy and relatively cheap to replace.

If you wish to protect your iPad Pro from physical damage - consider using a fitted case explicitly designed for the iPad model. Adding a "skin" is cosmetic only - and offers very little (if any) physical protection.

Arguably, of available fitted cases, OtterBox, Zagg and STM Goods are some of the best available - some of which offer MIL-spec physical protection for the iPad.

Additional screen protection can also be added where required. Laminated glass screen protectors from OtterBox and Zagg have exemplary reputation. However, as previously outlined, screen protectors are best used with iPad models that use Apple's standard glass. While good quality screen protectors can be used with nano-texture glass, all optical benefits of choosing nano-glass are eliminated.

Ironically, the most expensive screen option (nano-texture glass) is the least robust and most likely to suffer accidental surface damage - in most need of additional protection...

Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Applying any form of "skin" covering, using heat, is not recommended. Any damage that you cause will almost certainly not be covered by the Apple limited warranty.

Fitted cases are designed to be left on the iPad - providing protection both when being used and unused. A sleeve/slip-case, such as you propose, offers no protection at all once the iPad has been removed from it.

Here are two examples currently marketed by Apple; both incorporate a screen cover that can be folded behind the iPad while being used - or usefully tilting the iPad toward the user while the cover is open:

• Tech21 FlexFolio Tint Case for 13” iPad Pro – Black - Apple
• MOFT Float Folio for 13” iPad Pro - Black - Apple

I have owned iPads since the original came. I’ve never used, nor needed, a screen protector. Wouldn’t put much stock in everything you see on YouTube. I do use an inexpensive cover especially when outside the home. It's impact damage you need to most concerned about, and a screen protector isn’t going to do much for that, in spite of claims some of the manufacturers make.

Re nano-texture, Apple only shows this: How to clean your nano-texture Apple display - Apple Support

AppleClub wrote: Can we install it without heat?

To reiterate, follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Apply adhesive coverings at your own risk. Any consequential damage, should it occur, will not be covered by the Apple limited warranty.

Return it?