Is the iPhone 14 Pro Max waterproof or just resistant? Here’s everything you need to know, including its official IP rating and what it means…
The iPhone 14 Pro Max, Apple‘s flagship phone for 2022, brought a host of new features to the mix, including Dynamic Island and Apple’s brand new A16 CPU. The phone is a beast, to be sure, but is the iPhone 14 Pro Max waterproof?
Let’s dive deep into this topic and explore the iPhone 14 Pro Max’s water resistance capabilities.
Understanding IP68 Rating
First and foremost, it’s essential to understand what the IP68 rating means:
- IP stands for “Ingress Protection.” It’s a standard used to define levels of sealing effectiveness against intrusion from foreign bodies (tools, dirt, etc.) and moisture.
- 6: This first digit indicates the level of protection against solid objects. A rating of 6 means the iPhone 14 Pro Max is dust-tight, offering complete protection against dust and dirt.
- 8: The second digit denotes protection against liquids. An 8 rating signifies that the device can be submerged in water up to a specified depth and duration without harmful effects.
For the iPhone 14 Pro Max, its IP68 rating means it can withstand submersion in water up to 6 meters (around 19.6 feet) for up to 30 minutes.
What This Means in Real-World Scenarios
- Accidental Splashes: Whether it’s a splash from washing your hands or getting caught in a light rain, the iPhone 14 Pro Max should handle it with ease.
- Brief Submersion: Dropped your phone in the sink or a shallow pool? As long as it’s retrieved promptly and not deeper than 6 meters, it should be fine.
- High-Pressure Water: The IP68 rating doesn’t account for high-pressure water jets. So, using your phone in the shower or near sprinklers might not be the best idea.
Exceeding the IP68 Limit: Potential Risks
While the iPhone 14 Pro Max boasts impressive water resistance, it’s crucial to understand its limits. Here are scenarios where water damage might exceed its IP68 rating:
- Deep Water Activities: Activities like scuba diving or deep-sea swimming can expose the device to depths greater than 6 meters, risking water ingress.
- Extended Submersion: Keeping the device submerged for longer than 30 minutes, even at shallower depths, can compromise its water resistance.
- Exposure to Other Liquids: The IP68 rating primarily pertains to freshwater. Exposure to saltwater, chlorine, or other chemicals can damage the phone’s seals and protective barriers.
- Wear and Tear: Over time, the seals and gaskets that provide water resistance can degrade, especially if the phone has been dropped or repaired. This can reduce its resistance to water.
Final Thoughts
The iPhone 14 Pro Max is designed to withstand common water-related accidents, but it’s not entirely “waterproof.” It’s always best to exercise caution and avoid intentionally exposing the device to water or other liquids. And remember, while the device itself has water resistance features, water damage is typically not covered under standard warranties.
For this reason, you’ll want to invest in a decent quality iPhone 14 Pro Max case. It’ll protect your device and, in some cases, even bolster its water resistance.
