The iPhone 11 holds an IP68 rating under IEC standard 60529. This rating signifies specific water resistance capabilities.
Understanding IP68
- Water Resistance: The iPhone 11 is resistant, not waterproof. Its IP68 rating confirms protection against water immersion under controlled laboratory conditions.
- Depth & Duration: It withstands submersion in up to 2 meters (approximately 6.5 feet) of freshwater for up to 30 minutes.
- Key Limitation: This rating applies only to static freshwater immersion. Real-world water exposure often involves movement, pressure, and different liquids, significantly exceeding test conditions.
Significant Real-World Risks
- Water Pressure: High-pressure water jets (showering, jetski spray, tap water) can force water past seals, even at shallow depths.
- Chemicals & Liquids: Soap, shampoo, saltwater, chlorinated water (pools), alcohol, or beverages rapidly degrade seals and corrode internal components. Apple explicitly excludes damage from such liquids from warranty coverage.
- Depth Exceeding 2 Meters: Water pressure increases rapidly with depth. Submersion below 2 meters, even briefly, risks immediate ingress.
- Duration Over 30 Minutes: Seals weaken over time underwater; exposure exceeding test duration heightens failure risk.
- Seal Degradation: Seals wear down naturally through normal use, drops, or exposure to dust and heat, progressively reducing water resistance.
Essential Tips to Avoid Damage
- Never intentionally submerge it. Avoid swimming, showering, or bathing with the phone.
- Keep it away from soaps, solvents, lotions, and all chemicals. Immediately wipe off any splashes gently with a soft, dry cloth.
- Avoid saltwater and chlorinated water at all costs. They cause corrosion far faster than freshwater.
- Dry immediately if exposed to moisture. If submerged, do not charge until thoroughly dried internally. Use the Lightning/USB-C port drying alert.
- Minimize exposure to water spray, steam, and high humidity. Keep it away from sinks, tubs, and saunas.
- Understand warranty exclusions. Liquid damage repairs are costly and not covered under Apple's standard warranty.
Treat your iPhone 11 cautiously around liquids. Its water resistance provides a safety margin against accidental spills or brief rain exposure, not underwater operation.
