Which iPhone is Water Resistant or Not: A Deep Dive for the Average American
It's a question many of us have asked ourselves at some point: "Can my iPhone survive a splash, a drop in the sink, or even a brief dip?" With everyday life throwing unexpected water encounters at our devices, understanding iPhone water resistance is crucial. This article will break down exactly which iPhones offer what level of protection against water, what those ratings actually mean, and what you should do if your iPhone *does* get wet.
Understanding Water Resistance Ratings (IP Ratings)
Before we dive into specific iPhone models, it's important to understand how water resistance is measured. Most modern iPhones (and many other electronics) use an Ingress Protection (IP) rating. This rating is a two-digit number, where the first digit indicates protection against solids (like dust), and the second digit indicates protection against liquids (like water).
For water resistance, we're primarily concerned with the second digit. The most common ratings you'll see for iPhones are:
- IPX7: This rating means the device can be immersed in water up to 1 meter (about 3.3 feet) for up to 30 minutes.
- IPX8: This is a higher level of protection, meaning the device can be immersed in water deeper than 1 meter for 30 minutes. The exact depth for IPX8 can vary by manufacturer, but for iPhones, Apple specifies the maximum depth.
Important Note: The "X" in these ratings signifies that the solid particle protection was not tested or is not relevant to the device's primary protection features. For iPhones, the focus is on liquid resistance.
Which iPhones Are Water Resistant?
Apple has been steadily improving the water resistance of its iPhones with each generation. Here's a breakdown:
iPhone 15 Series (iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max)
These latest models boast the highest level of water and dust resistance Apple offers, with an IP68 rating under IEC standard 60529. Apple specifies this means they can withstand submersion in water up to a maximum depth of 6 meters for up to 30 minutes.
iPhone 14 Series (iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max)
Similar to the iPhone 15 series, the iPhone 14 models also have an IP68 rating under IEC standard 60529. This allows for submersion in water up to a maximum depth of 6 meters for up to 30 minutes.
iPhone 13 Series (iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max)
The iPhone 13 lineup also features an IP68 rating under IEC standard 60529. They can handle submersion in water up to a maximum depth of 6 meters for up to 30 minutes.
iPhone 12 Series (iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max)
These models were among the first to receive Apple's improved water resistance, with an IP68 rating. They are rated for submersion in water up to a maximum depth of 6 meters for up to 30 minutes.
iPhone SE (3rd generation, 2022)
The iPhone SE (3rd generation) has an IP67 rating under IEC standard 60529. This means it can withstand submersion in water up to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes.
iPhone 11 Series (iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max)
The iPhone 11 series also has an IP68 rating under IEC standard 60529. They can be submerged in water up to a maximum depth of 6 meters for up to 30 minutes. (Note: While the SE 2nd gen was IP67, the 11 series bumped it up.)
iPhone XR and iPhone XS Series
The iPhone XR has an IP67 rating. The iPhone XS and XS Max also have an IP67 rating.
Older iPhone Models (iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 7, etc.)
Most older iPhone models (before the iPhone 7) are NOT officially rated for water resistance. While some might have some minor splash resistance due to their construction, you should assume they are not protected against water submersion.
- iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus: These were the first iPhones to gain official water resistance, with an IP67 rating.
What Does "Water Resistant" Really Mean for Your iPhone?
It's crucial to understand that "water resistant" does not mean "waterproof." Water resistance is a measure of how well a device can withstand exposure to water under specific conditions. The IP ratings are based on laboratory tests under controlled environments.
Here are some important caveats:
- Degradation Over Time: Water and dust resistance can decrease over time as seals wear down or if the iPhone sustains damage (like a cracked screen or bent frame).
- Not Against All Liquids: The IP ratings are typically for fresh water. Exposure to saltwater, chlorinated pool water, or other liquids like soda or juice can cause damage and are not covered by the warranty.
- No Warranty for Water Damage: Apple's standard warranty generally does not cover liquid damage, even if your iPhone has an IP rating. This is a critical point to remember.
- Intentional Immersion is Risky: While your iPhone might survive an accidental splash or a brief drop, intentionally submerging it in water is not recommended and can still lead to damage.
What to Do If Your iPhone Gets Wet
If your iPhone does get wet, don't panic, but act quickly:
- Remove it from the water immediately.
- If it's plugged in, unplug it immediately (if safe to do so).
- Wipe it down with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Gently shake the iPhone to remove water from ports.
- Let it air dry completely for at least 5 hours, or preferably 24 hours, before attempting to charge or turn it on. You can stand it upright on a flat surface to allow air circulation.
- Avoid using external heat sources like a hairdryer or placing it in rice. Rice is a myth and can introduce dust into the device.
- If you experience any issues after the iPhone has dried, contact Apple Support.
While the advanced water resistance of newer iPhones offers peace of mind against everyday accidents, it's always best to treat your device with care. Understanding these ratings and precautions will help you get the most out of your iPhone and avoid costly repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How deep can my iPhone go in water?
The depth your iPhone can withstand depends on its IP rating. iPhones with an IP68 rating (iPhone 12 and newer, excluding the SE 3rd gen) can be submerged up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. iPhones with an IP67 rating (iPhone SE 3rd gen, iPhone 7, 8, X, XR, XS) can be submerged up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. However, remember these are laboratory conditions, and intentional submersion is not advised.
Why doesn't Apple cover water damage under warranty?
Apple's warranty generally covers manufacturing defects, not accidental damage. While water resistance is a feature, it's designed to protect against accidental splashes and brief immersions, not to make the device waterproof for all scenarios. Liquid damage is considered accidental damage, and the seals can degrade over time, making them less effective.
Can I swim with my iPhone?
It is strongly discouraged to swim with any iPhone, regardless of its IP rating. While the rating suggests it can survive submersion, these tests are done in controlled environments with fresh water. Saltwater, chlorinated water, and the physical stress of swimming can easily overwhelm the seals and cause damage. Furthermore, Apple's warranty does not cover liquid damage.
What should I do if my iPhone screen is cracked and it gets wet?
A cracked screen compromises the water resistance of your iPhone. If your iPhone has a cracked screen and gets wet, the chances of water getting inside and causing damage are significantly higher. Follow the same drying steps, but be prepared for potential issues and contact Apple Support sooner rather than later.
