Beyond the IP68 Rating: What You Need to Know

For years,consumers have relied on the IP68 rating as a guarantee of water and dust resistance for their smartphones and other devices. But a growing awareness – and ⁢now, direct acknowledgement from manufacturers like Google – reveals a critical truth: that ⁤protection isn’t permanent. As of ‍August 20, 2025, Google began including disclaimers with its Pixel ⁤10 Pro Fold, explicitly stating that water and dust resistance “will diminish or be lost over time.”

Understanding IP68 and Ingress Protection

IP68 is a standard defined by the International electrotechnical Commission (IEC) under IEC 60529. It signifies a device’s ability to withstand dust ingress and prolonged immersion in water. Specifically, the ‘6’ indicates complete protection⁣ against dust,⁤ while the ‘8’ means the device can be submerged in water deeper than 1 meter ⁤(the exact depth and duration are specified by the manufacturer). Trusted Reviews provides a helpful overview of the IP rating system.

However, the IP rating is steadfast under controlled laboratory conditions. Real-world use introduces variables – temperature fluctuations, exposure to saltwater, and everyday impacts – that accelerate ⁣the degradation of seals and adhesives ⁤crucial to maintaining that protection.

Why Does Water Resistance Fade?

Several factors contribute to the decline in a device’s water resistance:

• Wear⁤ and Tear: The adhesives and seals that create a watertight barrier naturally degrade over time with daily use.
• Repairs: Any opening of the device – for battery replacement, screen‍ repair, or any other reason – compromises the original‍ seal.
• Disassembly: Taking a device apart, even carefully, can damage the seals.
• Physical Damage: Drops, cracks, or other physical damage ⁣can create pathways for water to enter.

Google’s recent admission highlights that even normal use will eventually diminish the effectiveness of the seals, leading to⁤ potential water damage.

What Does This Mean for Consumers?

The implications are notable. Consumers should no longer assume that an IP68-rated device will remain waterproof for its entire lifespan. It’s crucial to exercise caution around water, even if your phone⁤ is relatively new. Furthermore, be aware that ⁢liquid damage is often not covered under warranty, even if the device initially met IP68 standards.This is a critical point Google now explicitly acknowledges.

Protecting your Device

While you can’t prevent the unavoidable degradation of water ⁣resistance, you ⁣can take steps to mitigate the risk:

• avoid intentional water exposure: don’t deliberately submerge your phone, even if it’s IP68 rated.
• dry thoroughly: If your phone does get wet, dry it wholly with a soft cloth.
• Avoid extreme temperatures: Extreme heat or cold can damage seals.
• Professional repairs: If repairs are necessary, choose a certified repair center that understands the importance of maintaining water resistance.