Blog

Post By: The Keypad | 21 May 2026

IP67 vs IP68 Rating on Smartphones: Does It Actually Protect Your Phone from Water Damage or Is It a Myth?

Dropped your phone in water and trusted the IP rating to save it…

Then the screen flickers later? 

Many smartphone users believe that an IP67 or IP68 rating means their phone is completely waterproof. Because of this, people confidently use their phones in the rain, near swimming pools or even underwater for photos and videos. 

But the real question is: does an IP rating truly protect your phone from water damage or is it just a marketing myth? The truth is, IP ratings do offer protection, but they are often misunderstood. Water resistance does not mean waterproof, and many users only realize this after their phone gets damaged.

What Is an IP Rating?

IP stands for Ingress Protection. It is an international standard used to measure how well a device is protected against dust and water.

The IP rating usually has two numbers:

  • The first number represents protection against dust and solid particles.
  • The second number represents protection against water.

For example:

  • IP67 - Completely protected against dust and water-resistant up to 1 meter depth for 30 minutes
  • IP68 - Is fully dust resistant and can survive in water deeper than 1 meter (the exact depth depends on the brand)

Both ratings are common in modern smartphones, especially premium devices like iPhones and flagship Android phones.

Is Your Phone Really Waterproof?

This is where many people get confused. IP67 and IP68 do not mean waterproof. They only mean water-resistant under specific conditions.

In real life, several things can reduce your phone’s protection:

  • Phone drops or physical damage
  • Cracked screens
  • Loose back panels
  • Heat exposure
  • Old rubber seals are wearing out over time

Even steam, saltwater, chlorinated pool water or soap water can damage the internal parts of your smartphone.

So while the IP rating is useful, it should not give users complete confidence to expose phones to water regularly.

Common Myths About IP67 & IP68 Ratings

Myth 1: “I Can Take My Phone Swimming”

Even IP68 phones are not designed for regular swimming pool or underwater photography use. Water pressure can still force moisture inside the device.

Myth 2: “My Warranty Covers Water Damage”

Most smartphone brands do not fully cover water damage under warranty, even if the phone has an IP rating.

Myth 3: “If My Phone Works After Water Exposure, It’s Fine”

Water damage may not appear immediately. Corrosion inside the phone can slowly damage components over time.

Myth 4: “Rice Can Completely Fix Water Damage”

Putting your phone in rice may absorb some moisture, but it cannot remove internal corrosion or trapped liquid.

Signs Your Phone May Have Water Damage

Even if your phone still turns on, watch for these warning signs:

  • Muffled speaker sound
  • Charging problems
  • Fog inside the camera lens
  • Screen flickering
  • Touchscreen issues
  • Fast battery drain
  • Overheating
  • Random shutdowns

If you notice any of these problems, it’s important to visit a smartphone water-damage service centre quickly before the damage becomes worse.

What Should You Do If Your Phone Gets Wet?

If your smartphone falls into water:

  1. Turn it off immediately
  2. Remove the SIM card and accessories
  3. Dry the exterior gently with a soft cloth
  4. Do not shake the phone
  5. Do not use a hair dryer or excessive heat
  6. Avoid charging the device
  7. Take it to a professional repair technician as soon as possible

Quick action can often save your phone from permanent damage.

Why Professional Water Damage Repair Matters

Water damage is more serious than many people think. Moisture can slowly affect:

  • Motherboard circuits
  • Charging ports
  • Speakers
  • Cameras
  • Battery components

At a professional repair centre, technicians use specialized tools to:

  • Open the device safely
  • Clean internal corrosion
  • Dry sensitive components
  • Diagnose damaged parts
  • Restore the device properly

This is why choosing the best mobile repairing centre in Guwahati is important when dealing with water-damaged phones.

Final Thoughts

IP67 and IP68 ratings are not myths; they do protect against accidental splashes and limited water exposure. However, they are not a guarantee that your phone is completely waterproof. Real-life conditions, such as drops, aging seals and water pressure, can still cause serious internal damage.

If your phone has been exposed to water, don’t ignore the warning signs. Visit The Keypad, the mobile repairing shop in Guwahati, Assam, for professional diagnosis and expert repair solutions. As a trusted Mobile repairing shop in Assam, we provide advanced water damage treatment for all major brands.

Our skilled technicians use proper tools and expert care to help restore your device safely and quickly. Don’t take risks with water damage; let the professionals handle it before the problem gets worse.

Contact us now!

Recent Posts

Post By: The Keypad | 22 May 2026
PlayStation Repair Costs...
DSLR Camera Repair in Assam
Post By: vipin tiwari | 23 Apr 2026
Why Choose Expert...
laptop repair center in guwahati
Post By: KeyPad | 22 Apr 2026
Why Is Your...