Gone are the days when water resistance was limited to rugged phones designed for extreme conditions. In the year 2023, major smartphone brands like Apple, Samsung, and Google are incorporating water resistance into their mainstream models, providing users with added peace of mind and protection.
The importance of water resistance in a phone is evident to anyone who has accidentally spilled tea, coffee, or soda on their device. It can make a significant difference between a simple wipe with a napkin and having to bear the cost of an expensive repair at a store.
However, not all phones can handle being submerged in water, and some should not even be exposed to liquids. Taking most phones for a swim in a pool is not recommended, and sea swimming is entirely out of the question.
When purchasing a new phone, you may have encountered terms like “water resistant” and IP67, IP68, or IPX8 ratings. These water resistance terminologies can be confusing and in this article, we aims to demystify these ratings and provide clarity on the level of waterproofing your expensive smartphone offers.
Understanding IP Ratings – IP67, IP68, and IPX8
IP ratings, or ingress protection ratings, are established by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) to classify the degree of protection provided by electrical equipment enclosures. The first number in the IP rating represents protection against solid objects, these protection levels range from a low of 0 to a high of 6. The second number on the other hand denotes resistance to moisture or liquid with protection levels ranging from a low of 0 to a high of 8.
For example, an IP68-rated phone is protected against dust and can survive being submerged in water. The rating ensures that the device can withstand immersion in at least 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. However, it’s essential to read the fine print to understand the specific capabilities of your smartphone, as manufacturers may offer varying levels of water resistance even under the same IP rating.
There are instances where you’ll see an IP rating with a number replaced with an X, such as IPX8 (Samsung’s new foldables having this rating). In this instance, a company hasn’t provided testing details so the rating number is replaced with an X. An IPX8-rated device can survive being submerged in water but it hasn’t officially been rated for any protection from dust.
Not All IP68-Rated Phones Are Equal
Despite having the same IP68 rating, smartphones can differ significantly in their water resistance capabilities. For instance, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra can handle immersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes, while the iPhone 14 Pro can endure up to 6 meters of water for the same duration. Manufacturers can go beyond the IP rating’s minimum requirements, so it’s vital to check your phone’s specifications for precise details.
For more details on all the IP ratings, you can have a look at the charts at the end of this article outlining the protection levels set by the IEC.
Limitations of Water Resistance
Although the iPhone 14 Pro boasts an impressive 6 meters of water-resistance in its advertisements, it is wise to refrain from taking it into the pool while swimming. The IP rating for water-resistance is tested under controlled conditions without any movement. Any motion in the water could increase water pressure, potentially causing irreparable damage to the phone.
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Moreover, IP tests are conducted with fresh water, whereas pools often contain chlorine and other chemicals, which may affect the phone’s resistance. It is also essential to avoid exposing the phone to saltwater from the sea, as it could lead to problems like metal degradation in the charging port.
Even with the top IP68 resistance rating, it is advisable to use water-resistance as a backup in case of emergencies, not for recreational activities like snorkeling or underwater photography. The feature is designed for accidental incidents such as drink spills or making calls during rainy weather.
Phones Without IP Ratings
Budget-focused smartphones may not undergo IP rating tests due to cost constraints. While some manufacturers use terms like “water-repellent” or “water-resistant,” it’s crucial to avoid fully submerging these devices in water. While they may survive an accidental splash or light rain, treating them as fully waterproof is not advisable.
Conclusion
Water resistance in smartphones has become a standard feature, providing valuable protection against accidental spills and rainy weather. Understanding IP ratings is essential to know your phone’s specific capabilities and limitations regarding water resistance.
While some phones boast impressive IP68 ratings, users should still treat them as a safeguard rather than a license for aquatic adventures. Remember to handle smartphones without IP ratings with extra care around liquids. By understanding these factors, you can ensure the longevity of your device and protect your investment.
