Invisible Shield Glass Elite VisionGuard+ for the Google Pixel 4 XL: Protect and Filter

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I know that most premium smartphones come with Gorilla Glass displays which are less likely to shatter or scratch than a plastic or lesser glass display, but guess what? I can still manage to scratch Gorilla Glass without even trying. That’s why I am a huge advocate for glass screen protectors like the Invisible Shield Glass Elite VisionGuard+ for the Google Pixel 4 XL.

Invisible Shield Glass Elite VisionGuard+ for the Google Pixel 4 XL: Protect and Filter

Just like most other glass screen protectors, the Invisible Shield Glass Elite VisionGuard+ is easily installed without bubbles, and it will keep your screen from cracking in a serious drop. Unlike other screen protectors, the Invisible Shield Glass Elite VisionGuard+ screen protector also has anti-microbial properties, reinforced corners, an oleophilic coating that makes fingerprints virtually invisible, and VisionGuard — which helps protect your eyes from digital eye strain that comes “from prolonged exposure to device screens” which may cause “premature eye aging, dry and irritated eyes, sleep disruption, and blurred vision.” Furthermore, the “protective Eyesafe layer in Glass Elite VisionGuard+ filters harmful high-energy visible (HEV) light from your phone’s screen.” All righty then; let’s dig in!

Included in the box are the screen protector, a black mat, a microfiber cloth, an EZ Apply Tray, a screen cleaning wipe, a dust removal sticker, and a quick start guide. I’ll save you some time reading the directions with my quick walkthrough …

Invisible Shield Glass Elite VisionGuard+ for the Google Pixel 4 XL: Protect and Filter

To get started, you’ll lay your naked Pixel 4 XL on the included black mat. I guess some people will be glad for the mats inclusion, but after using it mine went straight into the trash. Next, you’ll wipe down your screen with the cleaning wipe and then dry it off with the microfiber cloth. I’ve seen guys at the AT&T store use the dust removal sticker by pressing it all over the screen at this point, but there really is no need. If you keep a can of compressed air nearby, that can come in handy in dustier locations.

Invisible Shield Glass Elite VisionGuard+ for the Google Pixel 4 XL: Protect and Filter

Next, you’ll lay the EZ Apply Tray on top of your 4 XL’s screen; the Top of the tray is noted with an upward-facing arrow, so you won’t have to worry about putting it on the wrong way.

Invisible Shield Glass Elite VisionGuard+ for the Google Pixel 4 XL: Protect and Filter

Next, you’ll peel the thick protective backing off of the glass screen protector; I’m always afraid I might bend the glass in two at this point, but that’s never happened. Be sure to keep the screen protector facing down as much as possible so it doesn’t pick up any floaty fuzz before it gets placed onto your display; this is especially important if you have pets, as their hair is usually floating around looking for something to stick to.

Before you place the protector into the EZ Apply Tray, check your screen again to make sure there are no bits of fuzz, pet hair, or dust collected there — use compressed air to blow them away if any has collected.

I liketo use a credit card to smooth the screen protector down from bottom to top. Those bubbles in the next photo are between the top protective cover and the screen protector, not the protector and my display.

Invisible Shield Glass Elite VisionGuard+ for the Google Pixel 4 XL: Protect and Filter

The last step is to peel off the thin protective layer on the top of the screen protector … done!

The Invisible Shield Glass Elite VisionGuard+ for the Google Pixel 4 XL is not an edge-to-edge screen protector, so you will notice a bit of a drop-off if you don’t use a case. As you can see, the protector is bubble-free, and I didn’t accidentally get any dust or lint under it — so it’s perfectly clear and ready for use.

Invisible Shield Glass Elite VisionGuard+ for the Google Pixel 4 XL: Protect and Filter

Once your 4 XL is in a case, the edges are less noticeable. The screen protector is very clear, and it won’t distort the display underneath; because the protector is glass, it feels just like the display would under your fingers — unless you hit an edge.

Invisible Shield Glass Elite VisionGuard+ for the Google Pixel 4 XL: Protect and Filter

The case shown is the Gear4 Crystal Palace (review coming soon).

The VisionGuard blue light filter is helpful for those who like to read before falling asleep; with it, you may be able to get away without using Pixel’s Night Light (which tints your display more amber than white between sunset and sunrise). I don’t notice a lot of smudges on my screen, so the ClearPrint technology is likely doing its thing — don’t expect it to work miracles, however; if you spill or something drips on your screen, it’s not going to slide right off without leaving a mark. 😉

If you ever crack or chip your screen protector, Invisible Shield offers a lifetime replacement program. After you’ve applied your protector, don’t forget to log into your Zagg account and register there for the future — just in case. Should you ever need to replace the protector, you can get a new one sent to you for the cost of shipping — about $6.

The Invisible Shield Glass Elite VisionGuard+ for the Google Pixel 4 XL retails for $49.99, and it is available directly from the manufacturer and from other retailers.

Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample

What I Like: All over protection for your Pixel 4 XL’s screen; Easy to apply; Bubble-free; VisionGuard blue light filter; Fewer fingerprint smudges; Replacement program should your protector ever get cracked

What Needs Improvement: Nothing

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About the Author

Judie Lipsett Stanford
Judie is the co-owner and Editor-in-Chief of Gear Diary, which she founded in September 2006. She got her start in 1999 writing software reviews at the now-defunct smaller.com; from mid-2000 through 2006, she wrote hardware reviews for and co-edited at The Gadgeteer. A recipient of the Sigma Kappa Colby Award for Technology, Judie has written for or been profiled by nationally known sites and magazines, and she has served on multiple industry hardware and software award panels. She is best known for her device-agnostic approach, enjoyment of exploring tech, gadgets, and gear, and her deep-diving, jargon-free reviews.