Waterproof phones are becoming more and more popular amongst tech fans but, is the iPhone 11 waterproof? After the release of the iPhone 11 series in September 2019, Apple fans have very clearly enjoyed the smartphone. With smartphones getting better and better in many senses, people are expecting them to do way more. Whether you’re looking to get summer pictures by the pool or even just the security that your phone will survive those accidental drops down the toilet, water resistance is a huge ask these days.

Understanding the IP rating

An IP rating is the code given to a smartphone to represent how resistant the phone is against dust and water. This is usually in the form ‘IP12’ with the relevant components. With the iPhone 11, you’ll get an IP68 rating. The ‘I’ relates to the dust and small particles whilst the ‘P’ relates to protection against liquids. With the iPhone 11 rating, you can see by the ‘6’ that the phone is completely protected against dust or small particles. This is the highest level of protection a smartphone can have. The ‘8’ shows just how resistant the smartphone is against liquids. In this case, the iPhone is resistant against oil and high voltage surging. Apple must then specify the depth and length of time that the phone can go undamaged separately.

The Limitations

Of course, the iPhone 11 isn’t completely waterproof so it does have a few limitations to avoid breaking. You will only be able to take the phone in up to 2 metres of water. This is above the average depth of a swimming pool so as long as you don’t go deep sea diving, you should be just fine. If you do take your phone any deeper, it is likely that it will be damaged. The pressure under water will increase which will cause damage to the insides of your phone, which will then impact how it actually works.

Another limitation is that you can only take the phone in water for up to 30 minutes at a time. This means that if you’re playing in the pool or sea whilst on holiday, you’re probably best to leave your phone at home. If your phone is in water for any longer, liquids will seep in and cause serious damage to your phone. You may also find that the display itself will stop working. Warranty does not cover water damage so you would then have to pay out of your own pocket to fix the phone.

So, is the iPhone 11 waterproof?

Overall, the iPhone 11 is not completely waterproof, nor is any other smartphone yet. You will be able to use the iPhone 11 around and in water as it is resistant for a certain length of time. It shouldn’t matter too much if you spill a drink over the phone as it’s built to survive this. We definitely wouldn’t recommend keeping your phone in the water for longer than suggested as it will more than likely break!

Whilst we wouldn’t suggest taking your phone in the water, even if the iPhone 11 is water resistant. You don’t want to be stuck paying for a contract for 2 years if the phone does break.