Are you thinking of getting yourself an Apple iPhone 16 series smartphone? Many of you are likely wondering whether the newer Apple handsets can handle a splash of water. How about a dunk? Let’s help you find out if the iPhone 16 is waterproof.
QUICK ANSWER
Apple iPhone 16 series smartphones are water-resistant, but not completely waterproof. All versions of the iPhone 16 have an IP68 rating. As per Apple’s statements, this means the device can be submerged up to six meters of water for 30 minutes. However, note that the warranty doesn’t cover water damage. We still advise that you keep your phone away from water if possible.
Is the iPhone 16 waterproof?
People seem to use the words waterproof and water-resistant interchangeably, but they have significant differences. The Apple iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max are water-resistant.
The iPhone 16 models have an IP68 rating for resistance to water. These iPhone models are able to withstand a depth of up to six meters (19.7 feet) for up to 30 minutes.
IP68 rating on the iPhone 16 explained
We know IP68 may sound like a bunch of technical mumbo jumbo to you. Let’s explain what it means in more human terms. IP stands for “Ingress Protection,” and the numbers after it represent how resistant the phone is. In the IP68 number, the 6 refers to dust resistance (and means the iPhone 16 can hold up to dirt, dust, and other particulates), while the 8 pertains to water resistance. IP6x is the highest dust resistance rating that exists. With the IP68 rating, the iPhone 16 can withstand splashes, rain, and accidental water exposure, but intentional water exposure should be avoided.
Currently, IP68 is the highest standard we expect from smartphones and technology.
Water and dust resistance are not permanent conditions, according to Apple, and can deteriorate over time as a result of normal wear. Apple’s standard warranty does not cover liquid damage, which means it’s best to use caution when it comes to liquid exposure.
Word of caution for iPhone 16 users
Having a good level of water resistance is great, but this doesn’t mean you should get your iPhone 16 wet or submerge it on purpose. An IP rating is more meant to be for peace of mind in the case of accidents.
For starters, these devices were only made to resist fresh water. There is no protection against salt water, other chemicals, minerals, etc. These can affect your phone, even if it has an IP rating.
Additionally, Apple doesn’t cover water damage as part of its warranty, even if it promises your phone can handle a certain level of water exposure. Furthermore, if you have an AppleCare Plus plan, repairing a water-damaged phone will count as an accidental damage claim, which costs $99.
If you absolutely want to purposely take your phone underwater, like if you want to take underwater photos, we recommend that you get a second layer of protection. You know, just to be on the safe side. Consider getting a waterproof pouch.
FAQs
How can I make my iPhone 16 waterproof?
No smartphone technology is genuinely waterproof. This would entail the device being totally sealed and able to withstand extended contact with water, and much deeper submersion. Your best bet to improve the level of water resistance is to use a waterproof phone pouch. Even those aren’t entirely waterproof, though. They will fail if you push them far enough.
Can I take my iPhone 16 into the shower with me?
Based on the IP68 rating, taking your iPhone 16 into the shower should be safe. However, we recommend against it, as repeated exposure to moisture, or chemicals like soap and shampoos, or minerals in water, can potentially damage your phone in the long run.
Can I take underwater photos with the iPhone 16?
The iPhone 16 has an IP68 rating for freshwater only. This means things like chlorine in a swimming pool, or salt in ocean water, shouldn’t be safe. You can theoretically use it for quick photos in a swimming pool without issues, but we advise against doing so. And never submerge it in seawater!
Are there any waterproof iPhones?
Modern smartphones, including iPhones, are only water resistant. There is no fully waterproof smartphone.