TECH NEWS – A doctor recently claimed that shattered phone displays release a toxic metal, but many forget Apple already debunked this back in 2017. While cadmium is indeed dangerous, major manufacturers haven’t used it in screens for nearly a decade.

Have you ever kept using a device with a cracked display? For many people, it’s a way to squeeze more life out of their gadgets despite the damage, since buying a replacement or paying for repairs isn’t always affordable. But one doctor has issued a warning to those who casually continue to use a smartphone with a broken screen.

Dr. Jimmy Mohammed argued that such devices release cadmium. For those unfamiliar, cadmium is a toxic, carcinogenic heavy metal flagged by the WHO as hazardous. Long-term exposure can damage the kidneys, bones, and lungs because the substance accumulates in the body. Although his claim sounds alarming, experts have examined the statement to see how much truth it really holds.

Should We Really Worry About Cracked Screens?

The original report points out that cadmium was once used in Ni-Cd rechargeable batteries, first-generation quantum dot displays, and even certain paint pigments. As a result, the European Union’s RoHS Directive restricted its use to just 0.01% in electronics. This is why major manufacturers like Apple and Samsung abandoned cadmium in their screens almost ten years ago.

So, are we actually at risk of cadmium exposure from a broken phone? According to experts, while some older devices may contain cadmium, it is sealed within protective layers that prevent leaks even if the screen shatters. Companies like Apple and Samsung have designed their products with this safeguard, making Mohammed’s warning more alarmist than factual.

In reality, the biggest threat from a broken screen is mechanical: sharp glass shards can cut your skin, and overheating can cause device failures. But your phone isn’t releasing toxic metals into the air or onto your body. That means the doctor’s alert is more about stoking fear than addressing genuine risks, since the real dangers are limited to cuts and burns caused by the damage itself.

Source: 3djuegos