Is iPhone X Waterproof or Water Resistant? We Have the Answer

iPhone-X-Waterproof-Water-Resistant Credit: EverythingApplePro
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Apple launched the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, the first water resistant certified iPhone models, back in September of 2016. And though they weren’t the first waterproof smartphones to market (an award owed to Sony’s 2013 Xperia Z), Apple’s previous iPhone flagships nevertheless received one of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC’s) highest certification ratings of IP67.

Mumblings from the rumor mill leading up to their launch in September, led us to believe that Apple’s iPhone X would receive a modest boost to IP68 certification. As we’ve come to find out, though, iPhone X along with its iPhone 8 counterparts were ultimately given the same IP67 rating as their predecessors.

Is iPhone X Waterproof?

Not technically. The iPhone X is regarded as water resistant, however it can be fully submerged in shallow water for up to 30 minutes.

According to Apple, “iPhone X is splash, water and dust resistant, and was tested under controlled laboratory conditions with a rating of IP67 under IEC standard 60529. Splash, water and dust resistance are not permanent conditions, and resistance might decrease as a result of normal wear. Do not attempt to charge a wet iPhone; refer to the user guide for cleaning and drying instructions. Liquid damage not covered under warranty”

IP67 vs IP68

An IPXX rating, according to the IEC, is assurance that “ingress of water in harmful quantity shall not be possible when the enclosure is immersed in water under defined conditions of pressure and time.”

  • In the case of an IP67 certified device like iPhone X, complete water submersion is feasible — though not encouraged — for up to 30 minutes at a maximum depth of 3.28 feet (1m). Apple’s iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7, and iPhone 7 Plus are also IP67 certified.
  • An IP68 rating, meanwhile, implies the same 30 minute time restraints while upping the depth threshold to 4.92 feet (1.5m). Samsung’s high-end Galaxy smartphones achieve the IP68 rating.

You can submerge your iPhone X under water for no longer than 30 minutes. Beyond that point, and beyond a depth of 3 feet, you’re running the risk of your device sustaining serious, irreparable water damage.

  • Can I shower with iPhone X? YES
  • Can I drop an iPhone X in the bath or toilet? YES
  • Should I swim or dive with iPhone X? NO

If you were to drop your iPhone X in the toilet, bathtub, or swimming pool full of water, even if you jump in with it still in your pocket, you’ll more than likely be in the clear.

If you were to accidentally spill a water-based beverage like beer, juice, or gatorade on your iPhone X, it will more than likely continue to function — although it’ll likely be a bit sticky from the beverage residue, requiring a bit of wiping up and disinfecting on your end.

If you’re looking for tips on how to clean your sticky or soiled iPhone, be sure to check out our complete guide to cleaning and disinfecting your iPhone the natural way.

Can I Take My iPhone X Swimming?

Owners are strongly advised against taking their iPhone X for a swim. Regardless of the water type — be it a swimming pool, lake, or ocean — both iPhone X, and Samsung’s slightly more submergible Galaxy Note 8, can only go so deep.

And you definitely don’t want to start pushing those limits, particularly because the IEC’s definitive tests were conducted under strictly monitored lab conditions. Meaning it’s unlikely that your real world experience of getting iPhone wet will hold the same precedent.

Final Thoughts

While a depth of 3.26 feet (for a maximum of 30 minutes) might seem stingy to those who dreamed of embarking on a deep-sea ‘iPhone X-ploration’, it’s still deep enough (and certainly long enough) to serve the purpose for which the phone is even IP certified in the first place.

Apple published an exhaustive Support Page outlining the terms, conditions and guidelines for how best to protect your iPhone X, and how to avoid damaging its internal components via water exposure. The guidelines, of course, are meant to serve as a warning against “trying this at home” — and they should be followed in that regard, especially since your warranty depends on it!

Still, the iPhone X is basically waterproof — let’s not dismiss the raw facts over a few technicalities, shall we? While a snorkeling expedition or swim in the deep-end of the pool might be out of the question, that’s not to say you can’t enjoy your iPhone X by the water. Live it up, in fact! And with summer just around the corner, it’s a great time to get your hands on waterproofed accessories for your waterproofed iPhone.

This iPhone compatible Dual-USB Solar Charger features a rugged, water-resistant shell with built in Solar panels to help charge up your waterproof iPhone using the power of the sun. Complete with a 5,000 mAh reserve, dual USB-A ports for simultaneous charging, and LED indicators to keep you informed, this portable, water-resistant powerhouse is your perfect poolside companion. Get it here in one of four unique colors for less than $20.

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