How waterproof are iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max?

October 12, 2018

As we already know, the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max have undergone a number of upgrades in terms of their tolerance to water. Last year's iPhone X had a waterproof certification of IP67 with this year's devices getting IP68. But what does that mean? In normal terms, it means that you'll never have to worry when you happen to drop your device in the toilet or when it comes in contact with large amounts of water. However, it doesn't just mean these things but much more.

IP68 means full durability

IP68 is a code and every letter or number means something. And no, it's not just about iPhones but it's global terminology and ratings would be a better way to put it. IP is short for International Protection and was created by the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) in an attempt to clarify the terms "waterproof" and "water resistant".

The IP code can contain up to four digits after "IP" - that's three numbers and a letter. The codes are explained as follows:

The first number refers to the resistance to particles (dust in our case)
The second number indicates the resistance to liquids
The third number is not often used, but indicates the resistance to falls
The fourth letter is optional and indicates resistance to oil, high voltage of current etc.

Dust-tight and Waterproof

In the case of IP68, the number 6 indicates the full dust resistance of the device. The resistance is such that even after 6 hours of attempts, dust does not manage to enter the interior of the device.

An 8 out of IP68 means that the iPhone XS was rated for its continuous submersion, unlike the non-continuous submersion of the iPhone X which was rated at 67. Both the time and depth of immersion are set by the manufacturer (Apple) so the iPhone XS should not be compared to a Samsung device that has received the same certification (IP68).

What does all this mean for iPhone?

All this means that the new generation iPhones are more durable than previous devices. Obviously, the tests conducted were more demanding than those involving IP67. So we read from Apple that:

iPhone XS - IP68 (maximum immersion of 2 metres for 30 minutes)
iPhone X - IP67 (maximum immersion to 1 meter for 30 minutes)

iPhone XR is IP67 certified.

So in theory you can swim (not in the sea) with any iPhone from iPhone 7 onwards. However, we don't recommend it, since yes, the devices do allow contact with the wet element, but the risk is still there. If you want to take photos underwater, you should probably resort to a professional waterproof camera.