Why Did OtterBox Stop Including Screen Protectors with Their Cases?
OtterBox, a leading manufacturer of protective cases, has made a strategic decision to no longer bundle screen protectors with their cases. This move is in line with broader industry trends and responsive to consumer preferences. In this article, we explore the reasons behind this change, including consumer demand, quality control, market trends, and cost considerations.
Consumer Preference
Many consumers now prefer to choose their own screen protector based on personal preferences. Factors such as material thickness, privacy filters, and blue light blocking features often play a significant role in their decision. Consumers want to customize their devices to their liking, ensuring that both the case and the screen protector work seamlessly together.
Quality Control
By avoiding the inclusion of a bundled screen protector, OtterBox can focus on enhancing the quality and durability of their cases without the added complexity of ensuring that the bundled screen protector meets their high standards. Ensuring that every component functions at the highest level requires significant quality control measures, which can be challenging when multiple third-party products are involved.
Market Trends
The accessories market has evolved, with many consumers opting for specialized or high-quality screen protectors from third-party manufacturers. This shift allows OtterBox to streamline their product offerings and focus on their core competency of producing high-quality cases. Customers can now make informed choices based on their needs and preferences, rather than having a pre-bundled solution that may not meet all their criteria.
Cost Considerations
Including a screen protector in every case model increases the retail price, which can be a significant factor for budget-conscious consumers. By separating the products, OtterBox allows customers to choose the most suitable screen protector according to their budget. This approach ensures that customers are not paying for features that they may not need, ultimately providing better value for money.
Shift in Popular Protectors
Consumers are increasingly gravitating towards 'self-healing' screen protectors, which are capable of mending themselves after minor damage. Additionally, tempered glass screen protectors are becoming more popular due to their durability and clarity. OtterBox now sells these high-quality screen protectors specifically designed to work perfectly with their cases, ensuring a seamless user experience.
Market Research and Perceptions
Market research has shown that many consumers do not want built-in screen protectors because they perceive that these can reduce the sensitivity of their screens. Built-in screen protectors often trap dirt or other particles that can damage the screen, further contributing to negative perceptions. Lifeproof’s Nuud line, which outsells their original Fre cases, also supports this trend by avoiding built-in protectors and focusing on superior case designs.
Industry Alignment
Both OtterBox and Lifeproof have recognized that the current market dynamics favor specialized and high-quality screen protectors. Their new case lines, such as the Slam Next series, do not include screen protectors, aligning with market research and consumer behavior. This approach allows consumers to choose the best screen protector for their specific needs, ensuring maximum protection without compromising the screen's sensitivity.
Overall, OtterBox's decision to no longer include screen protectors with their cases reflects a thoughtful response to market demands and consumer behavior. This strategic move enables customers to enjoy OtterBox's highly durable and protective cases while allowing them to customize their screen protection with products that best suit their individual preferences.