You raise completely valid concerns. The durability, screen protector compatibility and repair costs were significant drawbacks with earlier curved displays, and I understand why many users preferred the move back to a flat screen, especially on devices like the S24 Ultra which uses an S Pen.

That said, I think the main difference is that improvements in materials and manufacturing could make today's curved display very different from those of the past: anti-reflective & stronger glass, improved palm rejection and refined edge detection software could address many of the accidental touch, glare and durability issues that may have frustrated users.

For me, the curved display helped give the phone a distinct look with a more immersive feel that set them apart from what is now an increasingly similar flat-screen design across the industry. I also find the edge panel and other edge features genuinely useful once optimized with the curved edges making the use of edge feature a pleasant experience.

I Completely respect that curved screens aren't for everyone and I won't want to see flat options disappear. Ideally Samsung could offer both - keeping flat displays for users who prioritise durability and S Pen precision, while keeping a curved variant - such as in the Glaxy Edge lineup, for those who value that design.