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Is the iPhone 15 waterproof? Not quite

Read this article before you go swimming with your brand new iPhone 15
Last Updated on December 19, 2023
Are the latest iPhone models waterproof? Image shows an iPhone 15 surrounded by water, with the PC guide logo, on a black background.
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We’ve all been there; spilling a drink on our new phone and frantically looking for the closest bag of rice. This dilemma is commonplace for many iPhone users and begs the question of whether iPhones are actually waterproof. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the new iPhone 15s water-resistant functions.

Since the iPhone 7 Apple has been releasing water-resistant phones, with newer models becoming more resistant than their predecessors. The iPhone 15 is no different, and although its water-resistant technology is the most advanced it has ever been, it is still not completely waterproof.

If you find this article helpful, we’ve also covered whether the iPhone 14 is waterproof and how to get water out of an iPhone charging port.

Is the iPhone 15 waterproof? – Water resistance

No phone is entirely waterproof but with Apple’s latest release, they’ve come pretty close. Much like its predecessors the iPhone 15 has a IP68 rating under IEC standard 60529, holding the highest level of water resistance found in such devices. The water-resistant feature in the iPhone 15 allows for the phone to be fully submerged in water for 30 minutes at a maximum depth of 6 meters. Although it should be mentioned, having your phone submerged for that long is not encouraged – the water-resistant feature on the iPhone 15 is designed to protect against minor exposure to water e.g. rain, drink spills, and shower splashes.

iPhone 15 – What’s different?

The additional changes Apple has made to the iPhone 15 mean it is the most effective when preventing water damage. The iPhone 15 screen now responds to the pressure you apply while tapping, meaning even when the screen is wet you are still able to use your phone. Gone are the days of attempting to send a text in the pouring rain.

✓ Eve’s thoughts

Water-resistance with cracked phone

Although the water-resistant advancements on the iPhone 15 are certaintly impressive, it is important to note that this feature will be compromised if your phone is cracked or damaged. Make sure your phone is fully protected (use of waterproof case or cover, etc.) if you’re intending to use it in a situation where you know it’ll get wet.

What other phones are water-resistant?

As previously mentioned, all of the iPhone models released after the iPhone 7 are water-resistant. However, with the introduction of the pressure-responsive screen, the iPhone 15 is the most advanced in preventing water damage of the iPhone series. Additionally, water-resistant features can be seen in other flagship phones released in 2023; the Samsung Galaxy S23 and Pixel 7 both have an IP68 rating, making them just as capable as the iPhone 15.

What should I do if my iPhone gets wet?

If there’s a possibility your phone might get wet (you’re taking it with you whilst doing water sports, etc.) it’s always good to put it in a waterproof bag as a precautionary measure. However, if it gets wet and you’re concerned about water damage, then make sure to turn your phone off and use a cloth to dry it (paying close attention to the charging port), before turning it back on and checking for any internal damage. Check out this informative Apple page to get further advice on water damage within the iPhone series.

Wrapping up

To conclude, no the iPhone 15 is not completely waterproof. However, with the additional water-resistant functions Apple has made, it may as well be. Water damage can be a pretty serious issue when considering the functionality of your phone, so it’s always good to be extra careful around liquids – even though the length of time the iPhone 15 can spend underwater is pretty impressive, it’s a good idea not to test it!

Eve is a writer and copy editor at PC Guide, who focuses on a broad range of topics but main interest lies in the development of AI technology.