Are iPhones Waterproof? A Complete Guide to the WaterResistance of iPhones

Introduction
iPhones have evolved significantly over the years, with improvements in durability, camera quality, and
performance. One of the most common questions among users is: Are iPhones waterproof? Understanding the
water resistance of your device is crucial, as water damage can be costly. In this article, we’ll explore everything
you need to know about iPhone water resistance, ratings, and best practices for protecting your device.
Understanding iPhone Water Resistance
Apple has designed recent iPhones to withstand some exposure to water, but they are not fully waterproof. Waterresistant devices can endure splashes, rain, and brief submersion, but prolonged exposure may still cause damage.
The Evolution of Water Resistance in iPhones
Apple first introduced water resistance with the iPhone 7 in 2016. Since then, newer models have improved their
resistance levels. Here’s a brief history:
- iPhone 7 & 7 Plus – First iPhones with IP67 rating.
- iPhone 8, 8 Plus, and X – Continued IP67 protection.
- iPhone XS and newer – Upgraded to IP68, offering better resistance.
IP Ratings Explained
What Do IP67 and IP68 Mean?
The Ingress Protection (IP) rating system classifies the level of resistance against dust and water:
- IP67: Can survive up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.
- IP68: Can handle up to 2-6 meters for 30 minutes (varies by model)
Which iPhones Are Water-Resistant?
List of Water-Resistant iPhones
Model IP Rating Maximum Depth
iPhone 7 & 7 Plus IP67 1 meter
iPhone 8, 8 Plus, X IP67 1 meter
iPhone XS, XS Max IP68 2 meters
iPhone 11 Series IP68 2-4 meters
iPhone 12 Series IP68 6 meters
iPhone 13, 14, 15 Series IP68 6 meters
Can You Submerge an iPhone in Water?
Although some iPhones have an IP68 rating, Apple does not recommend submerging them in water deliberately.
The resistance can degrade over time due to wear and tear.
What Happens If Your iPhone Gets Wet?
If your iPhone is exposed to water, it may experience:
- Temporary touchscreen issues
- Speaker distortion
- Possible internal damage if submerged
How to Dry a Wet iPhone
- Turn it off immediately
- Wipe it with a dry cloth
- Remove any cases or accessories
- Let it air dry (Do NOT use rice!)
- Wait at least 24 hours before turning it back on
Does Apple’s Warranty Cover Water Damage?
No, Apple’s standard warranty does not cover water damage, even for water-resistant iPhones.
Best Practices to Protect Your iPhone from Water
- Avoid taking it near pools or beaches.
- Use a waterproof case.
- Do not charge a wet iPhone
Do Waterproof Cases Work?
Waterproof cases add extra protection but are not foolproof. Brands like LifeProof and Catalyst offer high-quality
options.
Saltwater vs. Freshwater Exposure
Saltwater is more corrosive than freshwater and can damage your iPhone’s seals. If exposed, rinse with fresh water
immediately.
Testing iPhone Water Resistance at Home
Avoid unnecessary risks. Instead of dunking your iPhone, check the Liquid Contact Indicator (LCI) inside the
SIM card slot.
Common Myths About iPhone Water Resistance
- Myth: iPhones are waterproof → Reality: They are water-resistant.
- Myth: IP68 means unlimited submersion → Reality: Only temporary resistance.
- Myth: Rice can fix a wet iPhone → Reality: Letting it air dry is better.
Future of Water Resistance in iPhones
Apple may introduce true waterproofing or self-repairing hydrophobic coatings in future models.
Conclusion
While newer iPhones are water-resistant, they are not waterproof. Avoid unnecessary exposure to water and take
preventive measures to keep your device safe
Visit Us Today
www.smarttechoutlet.ca
1940 Ironstone Drive, Burlington, ON L7L 0E4
Contact us for a free quote: Call us at 289-659-2488
Let the experts at Smart Tech Outlet handle your iPhone charging port repair.