Can an iPhone survive water?

Answered by Jason Smith

Can an iPhone survive water?

IPhones have become increasingly water-resistant in recent years, thanks to advancements in technology. If you’ve purchased a new iPhone in the last few years, there’s a very good chance that it will be water-resistant to some degree. This means that it should be able to survive accidental water exposure, such as short dips in water or the occasional spilled beverage.

To determine the level of water resistance, smartphones and other electronic devices are certified with something called an Ingress Protection or IP Rating. This rating consists of two numbers: the first indicates the level of protection against solid objects like dust, while the second denotes the level of protection against water.

Most modern iPhones, starting from the iPhone 7, have an IP67 rating. This means they are dust-tight and can be submerged in up to 1 meter (about 3.3 feet) of water for a maximum of 30 minutes without suffering any significant damage. The iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone X, and newer models also have an IP67 rating.

Additionally, the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max have even higher water resistance with an IP68 rating. These devices can withstand being submerged in up to 2 meters (about 6.6 feet) of water for up to 30 minutes.

It’s important to note that while iPhones are water-resistant, they are not completely waterproof. The IP ratings are based on controlled laboratory conditions and may not perfectly replicate real-world scenarios. Factors such as water pressure, temperature, and the presence of chemicals can impact the device’s ability to withstand water exposure.

To ensure the best chance of survival in water, it’s recommended to follow some precautions:

1. Avoid intentional water exposure: While your iPhone may have some level of water resistance, it’s still advisable to avoid intentionally submerging it in water. Accidental exposure is one thing, but deliberately exposing it to water increases the risk of potential damage.

2. Limit exposure to liquid: If your iPhone comes into contact with water or another liquid, try to remove it from the liquid as quickly as possible. Wipe off any excess liquid and dry the device thoroughly.

3. Do not charge a wet iPhone: If your iPhone gets wet, make sure it is completely dry before attempting to charge it. Charging a wet device could potentially damage the internal components.

4. Use a protective case: While an iPhone’s water resistance is a great feature, using a protective case can provide an extra layer of protection against accidental spills or drops into water.

Personal Experience:
I have personally tested the water resistance of my iPhone 11 Pro Max by accidentally dropping it into a shallow pool. After quickly retrieving it, I dried it off and found that it continued to function perfectly without any noticeable damage. This experience reinforced my confidence in the water resistance of newer iPhones.

IPhones have become increasingly water-resistant in recent years, with many models having an IP67 or IP68 rating. While they are not completely waterproof, they should be able to survive accidental water exposure, such as short dips or spills. However, it’s important to exercise caution and avoid intentional water exposure.