Smartphone water resistance: Understanding IP ratings and their limitations
A smartphone’s water resistance does not mean it can be submerged without restrictions. IP ratings establish different levels of protection against dust and liquids, and understanding their scope is important before exposing a device to water.
Water resistance is a feature found in smartphones that helps protect them in situations such as exposure to rain, splashes, or accidental contact with liquids. However, having this protection does not mean that a device is completely waterproof or that it can be used underwater without taking its specifications into account.
To understand the scope of this feature, it is important to know what the IP (Ingress Protection) rating means. This system classifies the level of protection equipment provides against the ingress of dust and water. Its designation consists of two digits: the first indicates dust resistance, while the second represents the level of protection against water.
In the first case, the number 6 represents complete protection against dust. In the second, the scale includes different levels: the number 8 is associated with prolonged immersion, while 9 corresponds to resistance against high-pressure, high-temperature water jets.
Not all IP ratings mean the same thing.
One of the most demanding classifications is IP69K, which includes tests to assess resistance to high-pressure, high-temperature water jets. The letter K comes from a standard originally developed for vehicles and industrial machinery, covering exposure scenarios that are more demanding than ordinary contact with rain.
However, it is important to distinguish between the levels of protection offered by each certification. Resistance to pressurized water jets does not, by itself, mean that a phone is approved for immersion. To determine whether a device supports immersion, it is necessary to check the relevant specifications and the conditions established by the manufacturer.
Certifications also have limitations: laboratory tests are conducted under controlled conditions and use clean water. Therefore, their results should not be interpreted as a guarantee of protection against every type of liquid or exposure scenario.
Other technologies provide additional protection.
Water resistance does not depend solely on preventing liquids from entering the inside of a phone. Some technologies are designed to help devices function when exposed to moisture.
One of these is Wet Touch, a feature that allows the screen to recognize touch interactions even when there are water droplets on it or the user’s hands are wet. This feature is useful in everyday activities such as cooking or using the device in the rain.
Another solution is the speaker water-ejection system, which uses vibrations or sounds to help remove liquid accumulated after contact with water. Its purpose is to help restore audio clarity.
Some devices also include specific modes for using the camera underwater. These features allow users to rely on physical controls to facilitate taking photos and recording videos during immersion, always within the depth limits established by the manufacturer.
Precautions to prevent damage.
Even if a smartphone has a water-resistance rating, its protection requires certain precautions. Usage recommendations include favoring contact with fresh water and avoiding exposure to seawater or chlorinated swimming pools whenever possible.
It is also important not to charge the phone when it is wet, to avoid contact with hot water, steam, or soap, and to make sure the SIM card tray is properly closed.
Another factor to consider is device wear and tear. Impacts and prolonged use can reduce its protective capabilities, meaning that a certification obtained under laboratory conditions does not necessarily guarantee the same level of resistance after a period of use.
The incorporation of these technologies can be seen in some models on the market. Xiaomi, for example, has integrated IP69K certification into the REDMI Note 17 Pro Max 5G and REDMI Note 17 Pro 5G. The former also features an Underwater Mode that, according to the manufacturer’s specifications, allows immersion at depths of up to two meters. The series also incorporates Wet Touch 2.0 and a speaker water-ejection system.
Ultimately, understanding IP ratings, distinguishing between resistance to splashes, water jets, and immersion, and following the manufacturer’s recommendations make it easier to understand the protection limits of a smartphone. Water resistance comes with specific conditions of use and does not guarantee absolute waterproofing.
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