WavexIs my iPhone waterproof? Water resistance by model
No iPhone is waterproof. iPhone 7 and later are water-resistant: iPhone 12 through iPhone 17e are rated IP68 for up to 6 metres for 30 minutes, older models IP68 at 2–4 metres or IP67 at 1 metre. Apple says this resistance isn't permanent and can decrease with wear, recommends not swimming or showering with an iPhone, and doesn't cover liquid damage under warranty. After a splash, dry it, let the port dry before charging and clear the speaker.
Water resistance ratings by model
Apple rates iPhone under the IEC 60529 standard. The ratings were measured in controlled laboratory conditions:
| iPhone models | Rating | Tested depth and time |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 12 through iPhone 17e | IP68 | Up to 6 m, up to 30 minutes |
| iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max | IP68 | Up to 4 m, up to 30 minutes |
| iPhone 11, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max | IP68 | Up to 2 m, up to 30 minutes |
| iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation), iPhone XR, iPhone X, iPhone 8, 8 Plus, 7, 7 Plus | IP67 | Up to 1 m, up to 30 minutes |
Models before iPhone 7 have no water resistance rating.
Water-resistant isn't waterproof
Apple is clear that splash, water and dust resistance aren't permanent and may decrease as a result of normal wear. Apple recommends avoiding:
- Swimming or bathing with your iPhone, or submerging it on purpose
- Water at high pressure or high speed, such as showering, water skiing, wakeboarding, surfing or jet skiing
- Saunas, steam rooms and very humid conditions
- Drops and other impacts
- Soap, detergents, acids and substances such as perfume, lotion, sunscreen and solvents
Liquid damage isn't covered by Apple's warranty, although you may have rights under consumer law.
Why the speaker still gets wet
Water resistance protects the inside of the iPhone, but the speaker and receiver sit behind mesh grilles that open to the outside. Water can stay in that mesh after a splash, which is why sound turns muffled even on a water-resistant iPhone. Apple notes this is temporary and the sound returns as the water evaporates. You can speed that up by pointing the speaker down and playing a low tone; see how to get water out of your iPhone speaker.
After a splash
- If it was anything other than water, rinse the affected area with tap water, then wipe the iPhone with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Tap it gently against your hand with the connector facing down, and leave it in a dry place with some airflow.
- Don't use heat, compressed air or rice, and don't insert anything into the port.
- Wait until it's completely dry (Apple suggests at least 5 hours) before charging with a cable. If iOS shows a liquid alert, follow these steps.
Look after a water-resistant iPhone
- Keep it out of the pool and shower. Water resistance is for accidents, not for swimming, bathing or high-pressure water.
- Rinse anything that isn't water. After salt water, soda or sunscreen, rinse the area with tap water and wipe it dry.
- Dry it with airflow. Tap it gently with the port facing down and leave it somewhere with moving air.
- Wait before charging. Let the port dry completely before using a cable; a wireless charger works once the back is dry.
- Clear the speaker. If sound is muffled, point the speaker down and play a low tone for 10 to 30 seconds.
Questions and answers
Can I take my iPhone swimming?
Apple recommends against it. Water resistance is tested under controlled laboratory conditions and decreases with wear, and liquid damage isn't covered by the warranty.
Does water resistance get worse over time?
Yes. Apple says splash, water and dust resistance aren't permanent and may decrease as a result of normal wear, such as drops and everyday use.
Is salt water or chlorine worse than fresh water?
Apple's guidance is to rinse the iPhone with tap water if it's exposed to any liquid other than water, then wipe and dry it.
Is liquid damage covered by AppleCare or the warranty?
The standard warranty doesn't cover liquid damage. AppleCare+ plans can cover accidental damage for a fee; check your plan's terms.
Sources
- Apple Support: About splash, water and dust resistance of iPhone
- Apple Support: If you see a liquid-detection alert on your iPhone