Technical Description Of What IP68 & IP Ratings Really Mean: Is My Smartphone Really Waterproof?
Regin OlimberioIP67 or IP68 ratings are technical numbers that characterize smartphone's resilience against the elements, particularly dust and liquid. In real-life applicability, there are something more behind these numbers that consumers should know to avoid a false sense of the device's "invulnerability."
To get an idea, Samsung Galaxy S7 sports an IP68 rating where the last digit 8 stands for the highest rating a device could get. However, it doesn't mean being totally safe when accidentally dropped in a swimming pool.
IP or Ingress Protection is a confusing code created by International Electrotechnical Commission to make a barometer for detailed information for device's tolerance against the elements. Where IP6X is a commonplace among high-end devices, 6 indicates being dust-tight and tiny specks can't get through the device.
The second number, say IPX8 indicates tolerance against liquid particles. Rule of the thumb is: tolerance against fresh water and NEVER salt water. The current highest rating is 8, as in IP68 which means that the device can be submerged to as deep as 1 meter.
Here is the second rule of the thumb: there is specific length of time on how long the device can resist water. This should be emphasized by device manufacturers since there is no hard and fast rule regarding liquid tolerance and its correlation to amount of time being exposed. Further, tests usually submerge smartphones with IPX8 rating in water for about 30 minutes but these tests don't subject device to liquid pressure like water nozzles or spray hoses, Greenbot stressed.
To conclude, smartphones were tested and received their respective IP ratings under controlled laboratory conditions. In the real world, there are several other factors that escalates smartphone vulnerability albeit IP markings. Take into consideration the length of exposure, type of dust or water, water pressure and even temperature.
most read
related stories
more stories from News
Discover the key features and security enhancements of Apple's iOS 17.5 update.
ernest hamiltonDiscover top iPhone apps that let you earn real money by playing games, scanning receipts, and staying active.
ernest hamiltonSamsung has reached a remarkable milestone, shipping nearly 3 billion smartphones since 2014. Discover how the tech giant's decade-long dominance and innovative advancements have solidified its leadership in the global smartphone market.
ernest hamiltonLearn about Apple's settlement in the class-action lawsuit over iPhone 7 audio issues, offering up to $349 compensation for eligible users. Dive into the details and implications of this landmark agreement.
ernest hamiltonThousands of Apple users experienced a major iMessage outage on Thursday evening, impacting communication across the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. Downdetector reported over 13,000 disruptions starting at 6 p.m. ET. Stay updated with the latest developments and potential fixes.
ernest hamiltonDelve into the complexities of managing screen time for children as parents navigate between practicality and idealism.
ernest hamiltonDiscover why the Pixel 7a outperforms the new Pixel 8a in this detailed comparison. Learn about the advantages in affordability, color options, and feature parity. Read now to make an informed choice!
ernest hamiltonDiscover the future of smartphone audio with Moondrop's MIAD 01. Explore its dual audio jacks and premium DACs in this in-depth review. Ready to elevate your music experience? Read now!
ernest hamilton