IP ratings are used to indicate a phone's water resistance. A device with a higher IP rating means it can remain underwater for longer periods of time.
What does the IP rating of a phone mean?
Nowadays, many of the latest phones claim to be water-resistant. To do this, companies use IP ratings, which indicate the degree of water protection a phone offers. Today, we'll explain the difference between waterproof and water-resistant, and the meaning of the IP68, IP69, and IPX8 ratings.
What is the difference between waterproof and water-resistant?
A water-resistant phone can withstand drops of water and rain, but it's not designed to be submerged in water for extended periods. Waterproof phones, on the other hand, undergo rigorous immersion tests and can withstand prolonged periods at a certain depth. However, there's still a risk of damage if worn for extended periods in swimming pools or other places.
What does rating mean?
Is your phone waterproof? The answer lies in its IP rating. IP stands for Ingress Protection, and the numbers next to it indicate how resistant it is to dust and water. This rating consists of two numbers. The first number indicates protection against dust and ranges from 0 to 6. The second number indicates protection against water and other liquids and ranges from 0 to 9.
IP68 - A 6 in this rating means the device is completely dustproof. An 8 indicates it can survive 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes. However, some phones can survive even longer and deeper periods. Phones with this rating can be used for taking photos in pools, rain, and under gently flowing water.
IP69 – This rating means the phone can easily withstand high-pressure and high-temperature water. Phones that can operate in harsh conditions, where the phone is often exposed to strong currents, receive this rating.
IPX8 - This designation uses an X instead of the first digit, indicating that it hasn't been tested for dust protection. The number 8 indicates that the phone can withstand brief periods of submersion up to 1.5 meters. These phones are generally safe for swimming and rain.
