Waterproof phones

A dust- and water-resistant casing ensures that dust and water are kept out as much as possible. Water-resistant does not mean the same thing as waterproof. The degree of resistance is expressed using what is known as the IP rating.

IP rating

Waterproof smartphones, tablets, and other consumer electronics come in all shapes and sizes. To make it easier to compare them, a scale has been developed to rate their levels of dust and water resistance. This International Protection Rating is also known simply as the IP code or IP rating. An IP code consists of two numbers, the first of which indicates dust resistance and the second indicates water resistance. The exact meaning of each number is explained below.

A product with an IP rating of, for example, IP67 offers complete protection against dust and is water-resistant to a depth of 1 meter for a duration of 30 minutes. Manufacturers typically test this level of protection under laboratory conditions, also known as ideal conditions. Real-world conditions are often more challenging. For example, natural elements such as salt and chlorine can also be harmful, meaning that a product with a certain IP rating may still sustain damage. So caution is still advised.

ATM

Another way to indicate water resistance is by the pressure or atmosphere it can withstand. This is expressed in ATM (atmosphere), preceded by a number representing the number of atmospheres. This form of classification is often used for watches to indicate whether they are suitable for swimming or diving. One atmosphere, also known as 1 ATM, means splash-proof and is not suitable for swimming.

Durability

Dust- and water-resistant does not mean the same thing as rugged. Phones with a rugged casing are often also dust- and water-resistant, but the extra protection makes them more resistant to damage from drops. There is a proposal to expand the IP rating to include a third digit that specifically indicates ruggedness or impact resistance.