The use of smartphones has become an integral part of the daily life of every "normal" person. Several brands offer smartphones that are as useful as they are expensive.

Our smartphones accompany us everywhere, even to the beach and in the water! This can be very convenient to take photos and immortalize magical moments with your family. But it can also be expensive if you drop your iPhone in the water.

What is the difference between water resistant and waterproof?

In 2019, Apple introduced the new iPhone 11 and everyone was in love. The iPhone 11 is said to be "water resistant" and "waterproof", but what is the difference between these two?

Water resistance

Water resistance is the lowest level of water protection. If a device is labeled as water resistant, it is designed to make it more difficult for water to penetrate. Possibly, the phone is covered with a very light substance that improves the chances of survival of the device in case of accidental encounter with water. 

Waterproof

The definition of "waterproof" or "water resistant" is fairly straightforward, but the concept behind it is not. Currently, there is no established industry standard by which a device can be classified as waterproof. The closest standard currently available is the Ingress Protection Rating Scale (or IP code).

Is my iPhone 11 water resistant or waterproof?

With an IP68 protection rating, Apple has designed the iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max to be water resistant, submerged in water for a maximum of 30 minutes at a depth of 4 meters (6 feet) or less.

For the iPhone 11, XS and XS Max models, this water resistance is halved at a maximum depth of 2 meters (6 feet) for 30 minutes or less.

The iPhone SE (second generation), iPhone 7 and 8, iPhone XR and the original iPhone X have an IP67 rating according to IEC 60529 with a maximum depth of 1 meter for 30 minutes.

To avoid damage caused by liquids, they should refrain from the following:

• Swimming or bathing with your iPhone
• Exposing your iPhone to pressurized water or heavy splashing, such as showering, water skiing, wakeboarding, surfing, jet skiing, etc.
• Using your iPhone in a sauna or steam room.
• Intentionally immersing your iPhone in water
• Using your iPhone outside of the suggested temperature ranges or in extremely humid conditions
• Disassembling your iPhone, including removing the screws

Is there a fully waterproof iPhone 11?

There is currently no iPhone that is completely waterproof. iPhones are waterproofed to protect them from accidents at the beach, in the shower, in the pool, or in the coffee shop, so you can retrieve and clean your device as quickly as possible.

Resistance to splashes, water, and dust is not a permanent condition, and resilience can decrease with wear and tear.

The use of the term "waterproof" can also be seen as risky for many companies. In fact, the term "waterproof" generally conveys the idea that it is a permanent condition and that what has been made "waterproof" will never deteriorate upon contact with water - no matter what the situation. That's why it's essential to be aware of your iPhone's condition, because a small scratch in the wrong place can have different consequences when your iPhone comes into contact with water.

Is water damage covered by the warranty? 

Unfortunately, Apple is not liable for water damage. This means that you are neither entitled to a free replacement nor are the repairs covered by Apple Care. This means that you would have to bear the costs of the repair yourself. For this very reason, it is especially important to protect your iPhone with a waterproof case. This guarantees that no water damage can be inflicted on your iPhone. 

Is my iPhone 11 sand resistant?

On a summer day we want to go to the sea. So you slather on sunscreen, grab a towel and head to the beach. You lie down in the sand to absorb the gentle rays and get a little shot of vitamin D. Then you grab your phone to take a picture of the beach or video chat with your friend who couldn't make it to the beach with you. Whatever the urge, you're going to need your phone.

The problem is that the things that make a beach a beach - the scorching sun, the sand and the blue ocean waters - can also take a toll on electronic devices. To keep the beach safe, take these precautions before charging your phone in your beach bag. And remember, it's impossible to completely waterproof a phone at the beach.

To help you use your iPhone on the beach, we offer waterproof and water resistant cases. It's like an extra layer of water resistance that allows you to use your iPhone with complete peace of mind!

Catalyst waterproof case iPhone 11 - black

Also available for iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max

What should I do if my iPhone 11 falls into the water?

1. If a liquid other than water splashes onto your iPhone, rinse the affected area with tap water.

2. Wipe your iPhone with a soft, lint-free cloth. Make sure your iPhone is dry before opening the SIM card slot.

To dry your iPhone, gently tap it against your hand with the Lightning connector facing down to remove excess liquid. Leave your iPhone in a dry place with a little air. Place your iPhone in front of a fan that blows fresh air directly into the Lightning connector to facilitate the drying process.

Do not dry your iPhone by using an external heat source or by inserting a foreign object such as a cotton swab or paper towel into the Lightning connector.