It was my work phone so at least I didn't pay for it. Shouldn't have scratched, but well...

It's kind of funny how anecdotal it is.  I always used a screen protector, hardly an issue. I think it started peeling off and a decided not to replace it. A week later I dropped my phone and shattered the screen.

I've used protectors ever since. Did have to replace another one because the corners of it started cracking. But now I keep a spare in the drawer.