How waterproof is your smartphone really?

Nowadays, many newer smartphones are quite resistant to water. More and more devices come with an official waterproof rating and can withstand a rain shower, a splash of water or even a brief immersion without any problems. Still, it’s good to know: waterproof does not mean the same as water-resistant, and certainly not that you can swim with your phone worry-free. At ThePhoneLab, we love to dream, so dream with us for a moment….

It’s a Sunday in July, the winter clothes are long and wide in mothballs, the thermometer reads a very comfortable 25 degrees, and you’re baking on a boat on Dutch waters.

At some point it gets a little too hot for you and you decide to take a refreshing dip. A big splash provides the necessary cooling, but then you feel it… Your smartphone is still in the pocket of your swimming trunks. And let that not be as waterproof as you thought. Don’t panic, ThePhoneLab offers first aid for water damage!

We discuss the following topics:

• Measuring waterproofness with IP rating
• Apple’s iPhone
• How long can an iPhone survive underwater?
• Samsung
• Google’s Pixel
• First aid for water damage

Measuring waterproofness with IP rating

Almost every manufacturer these days throws around terms like “waterproof” or “splash-proof,” but the only truly reliable measure of this is the Ingress Protection Rating (IP rating).

This rating consists of two digits:

-The first digit (1 to 6) indicates the degree of protection against solid particles, such as dust.

-The second digit (1 to 8) says something about moisture protection.

The higher the numbers, the better. A phone with an IP68 rating is completely dustproof as well as water resistant to a certain depth (often 1.5 to 2 meters) and for a limited time.

Apple’s iPhone

Most recent iPhones are rated IP67 or IP68. That means: well protected from dust, and also resistant to (brief) immersion. A fall into the sink or toilet? It should survive that. A dip in the pool or in the shower with it? Manufacturers take no responsibility for that, water pressure, soap residue and duration make it risky.

Important to know: water damage is almost never covered by the warranty, even with an IP68 rating.

How long can an iPhone survive underwater?

So what exactly does this IP classification mean in practice for iPhone?

-iPhones rated IP67 (such as iPhone 7, 8, X, XR and SE 2/3):
Protects against immersion up to 1 meter deep for up to 30 minutes.

-iPhones with IP68 (such as the iPhone XS and newer):
The degree of water resistance varies by model:

-iPhone XS and iPhone 11: up to 2 meters deep for up to 30 minutes.

-iPhone 11 Pro/Pro Max: up to 4 meters deep, also 30 minutes.

-iPhone 12 to 16 (and Pro models): to a depth of 6 meters for half an hour.

Samsung

For years, Samsung has provided devices that score very well on water and dust resistance. Many models, from budget to top-of-the-line, have an IP68 rating. You can use them in the rain without any problems, and they often survive short stays in water just fine, too. But beware: prolonged exposure, chlorinated water or salt water can still cause damage.

Google’s Pixel

Most recent Pixel models, such as the Pixel 8, 8 Pro and 8a, are IP68-rated. That means they are well protected against dust and temporary immersion in water. Still, here too: water damage is not covered by the warranty, and exposure to salt water, soap or pressure differences (like in a swimming pool) can still cause damage. So: a quick rinse? Usually yes. In the shower or bath with it? Better not.

First aid for water damage

Fortunately, most modern smartphones can handle quite a bit of water. Rain shower, knocked over glass or a fall in a puddle? Chances are your device will survive, especially if it has an IP67 or IP68 rating.

But beware: if real moisture has penetrated the phone, then invisible damage can develop quickly. Corrosion or short circuits often develop over time. Therefore, it is crucial to have your phone checked as soon as possible. Our specialists will help you get started right away! Make an appointment right away or walk into one of our stores as soon as possible!