If you’re not concerned about the water and dust resistance of yoursmartphone– or any other mobile device, such as asmartwatch– you should be. That’s not to say tech companies have been negligent. Quite the opposite, actually, as an IP68 rating is now so commonplace that you should demand it from any flagship device.
It may be tempting to go for an ocean swim with IP68 devices, or at least wade into the surf. Before you do, though, there are some important limitations to learn, as well as some definitions.
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It’s safer to expect an evolutionary upgrade instead of anything particularly earth-shattering.
What does IP68 mean?
Pay attention to digits
IP68 is anIP (ingress protection) ratingdefined by the International Electrotechnical Commission.
Some IP68 devices may be able to go well below 1 meter, but that’s going to vary from product to product.
Does that mean IP68 devices are waterproof?
Unfortunately, no. Even if you drop aniPhone 15 Pro Maxin a shallow pond, the water will slowly erode its weather seals, whether over several hours or several days. Most IP68 devices are also susceptible to high pressure, so you shouldn’t normally go below 3.3 feet or take them in the shower. Only IP69 or 69K devices are tough enough to withstand hard jets.
Can IP68 devices go in saltwater?
No, IP68 devices can’t go in saltwater
No they can’t, or at least they shouldn’t. Saltwater is corrosive, and can actually accelerate the erosion process we mentioned a moment ago. The effect probably won’t be instantaneous – but if you’ve accidentally dropped an IP68 device in the ocean, you should immediately fish it out and rinse it off with fresh water. Once that’s done, dry it off with a cloth or paper towel.
You can potentially get around the issue with waterproof cases.
Identical things can be said about alcoholic drinks or chlorinated pool water. IP68 seals are really meant to protect against threats like rain, sweat, and accidentally dropping your phone in the toilet. They’re a temporary defense against corrosive liquids, at best.
What devices can go in saltwater?
Devices that have a dive rating can go in saltwater
When it comes to consumer devices, assume they should only intentionally enter saltwater if they have a dive rating. TheApple Watch Ultra 2, for example, isISO 22810-ratedto a depth of 100 meters (about 328 feet), and supports scuba diving to a depth of 40 meters (131 feet). That said, Apple has long depicted non-Ultra Watches as good for beach swimming, and Samsung’sGalaxy Watch Ultrais likewise built to withstand salt without having any diving support. Check a manufacturer’s website for specifics.
Apple Watch Ultra 2
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a premium smartwatch focused on offering in-depth fitness tracking and a much longer battery life than a normal Apple Watch. As of 2024 it also comes in a black titanium finish.
Galaxy Watch Ultra
you’re able to potentially get around the issue withwaterproofcases. Those are sometimes expensive and hard to find, but they do exist for a few popular smartphone, tablet, and camera models, such asGoPros. To be doubly sure, check whether they’re specifically built for saltwater, and diving too if that’s your interest.
A case is only waterproof if it’s fully sealed – that includes ports, buttons, crevices, and the display.
Even with a case, it’s wise to rinse a device off when you’re done with any saltwater activity. The salt tends to settle and linger, and there’s no sense testing out durability when you don’t have to.
