The one thing we have been dreading for years is accidentally dropping our phone in water. The sense of panic is all too familiar. If you have ever attempted to soak up excess water with a bowl of rice, you are not alone.
Can iPhones really survive in the water?
Apple seems to think so. The newest versions of iPhone 12 including the Mini, Pro, and Pro Max claim to be able to survive submerged in H2O. But with Apple iPhone's fragile build and so many complex components inside, it is hard to believe. There are other big name tech brands on the market that have been successful with similar waterproof technology for a few years now. Samsung for example has invited android users to dunk their devices in a bowl of water. While Apple is just getting on the road of waterless and worry free for its consumers and fans alike. Our Gizmogo bloggers dug deep and put the theory to the test to see if Apple iPhone could stand liquid.
Apple's iPhones Have Been Water Resistant for Years
Since the release of iPhone 7, Apple has made their phones at least a little water resistant. Since late 2016, the iPhone maker has offered some protections against water damage, but that does not mean you should jump in a pool of water with your phone in hand.
What Are IEC Standards and Ratings for iPhones?
In short, the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) Standards are in place to classify the level of protection provided by enclosures of electronics. IP (ingress protection) Ratings are provided for electronic devices that do not exceed the rated voltage of 72,5 kV. This helps consumers understand protection levels. This is important to keep in mind when handling Apple phones, since each one is rated differently:
- iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max have a rating of IP68 under IEC standard 60529 (maximum depth of 6 meters up to 30 minutes)
- iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max have a rating of IP68 under IEC standard 60529 (maximum depth of 4 meters up to 30 minutes)
- iPhone 11 has a rating of IP68 under IEC standard 60529 (maximum depth of 2 meters up to 30 minutes).
- iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max have a rating of IP68 under IEC standard 60529 (maximum depth of 2 meters up to 30 minutes).
- iPhone SE (2nd generation), iPhone XR, iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7, and iPhone 7 Plus have a rating of IP67 under IEC standard 60529 (maximum depth of 1 meter up to 30 minutes).
Water Resistant Versus Waterproof
Apple users should understand the huge difference between water resistant and waterproof. Apple considers iPhone 7 and on to be water resistant. Even in the tech company's support document, it states that “these iPhone models are splash, water, and dust resistant and were tested under controlled laboratory conditions” and “are resistant to accidental spills from common liquids, such as soda, beer, coffee, tea, and juice. In the event of a spill, rinse the affected area with tap water, then wipe your iPhone off and dry it.” The support section explains that swimming or bathing with your phone, intentionally submerging your phone in water, surfing, water skiing, wake boarding, or using it in a sauna or steam room should be avoided to prevent water damage. In other words, never drench it completely, it is not supported.
What To Do if Your iPhone Gets Wet
The first thing to do is to dry it immediately and wipe it off with a lint-free cloth. To ensure the phone is completely dry, gently tap it against your hand with the Lightening connector facing down to get any access water out. Then, leave the iPhone in a dry, cool area with plenty of airflow. Apple also recommends facing the Lightening connector towards a fan, air conditioner unit, or anywhere it can have cool air blown directly into it. This will greatly help the drying process.
If Your iPhone Got Wet, Sell It to Gizmogo
This can go one of two ways – either the iPhone can work swimmingly or you will find them in a watery grave. If you have tried everything and it sill does not work, sell that broken iPhone to Gizmogo for the most cash in the nation. We promise, you will find a lot more value in selling it, than trying to air dry it. Fingers crossed!
There are a few things to keep in mind when using an online phone-buying platform. Make sure you read the reviews of the company before sending in your phone. This will ensure that you are getting a fair price and good customer service. Be sure to package your phone securely so it doesn't get damaged during shipping.