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What iPhones Are Waterproof? Full Guide

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No iPhone is truly waterproof, but every model from the iPhone 7 onward is water-resistant with an official IP rating. This means they can survive splashes, rain, and brief accidental submersion under specific conditions, but they are not designed for swimming, diving, or prolonged underwater use.

IP Ratings Explained

Apple uses the Ingress Protection (IP) rating system to describe water and dust resistance. The rating has two digits: the first (6) indicates complete dust protection, and the second (7 or 8) indicates water resistance. An IP67 rating means the device can be submerged in up to 1 meter of fresh water for 30 minutes. An IP68 rating is better, but the exact depth and duration vary by model—Apple specifies different limits for different iPhones.

Water Resistance by Model

Here is the official water-resistance rating for each iPhone model, based on Apple’s published specifications:

  • iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: IP67 – up to 1 meter for 30 minutes
  • iPhone 8 and 8 Plus: IP67 – up to 1 meter for 30 minutes
  • iPhone X, XS, XS Max: IP68 – up to 2 meters for 30 minutes
  • iPhone XR: IP67 – up to 1 meter for 30 minutes
  • iPhone 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max: IP68 – up to 4 meters for 30 minutes
  • iPhone 11: IP68 – up to 2 meters for 30 minutes
  • iPhone 12 mini, 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max: IP68 – up to 6 meters for 30 minutes
  • iPhone 13 mini, 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max: IP68 – up to 6 meters for 30 minutes
  • iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max: IP68 – up to 6 meters for 30 minutes
  • iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max: IP68 – up to 6 meters for 30 minutes
  • iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max: IP68 – up to 6 meters for 30 minutes
  • iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation): IP67 – up to 1 meter for 30 minutes

Note that these ratings apply to brand-new devices with intact seals. Over time, normal wear and tear, drops, or repairs can degrade the water resistance.

How Water Resistance Works

Water resistance is achieved through a combination of gaskets, adhesives, and seals around openings like the SIM tray, charging port, and buttons. The internal components are also coated with a hydrophobic material that repels water. Apple does not use a mechanical door or plug for the Lightning or USB-C port; instead, the port itself is designed to withstand exposure to water, and the phone’s software can detect moisture and warn you before charging.

It is important to understand that water resistance is not permanent. The seals can degrade with age, heat, or physical stress. Apple’s warranty does not cover water damage, so if your iPhone gets wet and stops working, you will likely have to pay for an out-of-warranty repair.

What You Should Avoid

Even with an IP68 rating, you should avoid the following scenarios:

  • Swimming or bathing with your iPhone – the pressure and movement can force water past the seals.
  • Exposing it to salt water, soapy water, or chlorinated water – these can corrode the ports and damage the seals.
  • Submerging it deeper or longer than the rated limits.
  • Using it in a sauna or steam room – high heat and humidity can break down the adhesive.
  • Dropping it – a hard impact can create a gap in the seals.

If your iPhone does come into contact with a liquid other than fresh water, rinse it with fresh water and dry it with a soft cloth. Do not charge it until it is completely dry.

What to Do If Your iPhone Gets Wet

If your iPhone is accidentally submerged, follow these steps:

  1. Remove it from the water immediately.
  2. Turn it off if possible, and do not press any buttons.
  3. Wipe it gently with a lint-free cloth.
  4. Remove the SIM card tray to let water drain out.
  5. Leave it in a dry, well-ventilated area for at least 24 hours.
  6. Do not use a hairdryer, compressed air, or rice – these can push water deeper or cause corrosion.
  7. Wait until it is completely dry before charging.

If the phone shows a liquid-detection warning in the charging port, it means moisture is still present. Wait longer, and try a different cable if the warning persists.

Water Damage and Warranty

Apple’s standard one-year warranty does not cover water damage. The Liquid Contact Indicators (LCIs) inside the SIM slot and charging port turn red when they come into contact with liquid, and Apple technicians check these during repairs. If you have AppleCare+, it does not cover water damage either, but you can pay a service fee for an out-of-warranty replacement. However, if you have AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss, you may be able to file a claim for a lost or stolen device, but not for water damage.

Common Misconceptions

Many people believe that the IP68 rating means the phone is fully waterproof and can be used for underwater photography. That is not true. The rating is a laboratory test under static water conditions, not real-world use. Also, the “water resistance” decreases over time, so an older iPhone is less protected than a new one. Another myth is that putting a wet iPhone in rice helps; in fact, rice can leave starch residue inside the port and does not speed up drying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the iPhone 13 waterproof?

The iPhone 13 has an IP68 rating, meaning it can withstand submersion in up to 6 meters of fresh water for 30 minutes. However, this does not make it waterproof for swimming or diving, and the rating can decrease with wear.

Can I take my iPhone in the shower?

It is not recommended. The steam and soap can degrade the water seals, and the hot water can cause the adhesive to weaken. Even if it survives once, repeated exposure increases the risk of damage.

Does AppleCare+ cover water damage?

No, AppleCare+ does not cover water damage. You can get a replacement for a fee, but the standard warranty and AppleCare+ both exclude liquid damage.

Why did my iPhone get water damaged even though it’s rated IP68?

IP ratings are tested on new devices under controlled conditions. If your iPhone has been dropped, repaired, or is older, the seals may be compromised. Also, exceeding the rated depth or time, or exposing it to non-fresh water, can cause damage.

How do I know if my iPhone has water damage?

Apple uses Liquid Contact Indicators (LCIs) that turn red when exposed to water. You can check the SIM card slot for a small white or red dot. If it is red, the device has been in contact with liquid.

Can I swim with my iPhone if I put it in a waterproof case?

Yes, a dedicated waterproof case rated for swimming (like those with an IP68 rating higher than the phone’s) can allow you to take it in the water, but you must follow the case’s instructions and ensure it is properly sealed.

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