What Do Your Phone's IP Certificates Mean and Can They Be Trusted?

On the body of your Android phone, you might find an IP code followed by numbers like 67, 68, or 69. But what does this code mean, and how can you interpret these numbers?

Knowing how resistant your phone is to water and dust is crucial to avoid damage. The IP code, or Ingress Protection code, provides this information.

Understanding the Numbers

The first number indicates protection against dust, while the second number indicates protection against moisture. Devices with ratings like IP57, IP56, or IP55 offer limited protection. For instance, a phone with these ratings can handle raindrops but will likely fail if submerged in water.

Phones with IP68 certification and above offer robust dust and water resistance. "Waterproof" in this context means you can submerge them in water, but usually not deeper than five feet.

Independent Ratings

The two numbers in the IP code are independent. This means a phone could be highly water-resistant but not dust-resistant, and vice versa. If a phone has an X in place of one of the numbers, it indicates that it hasn't been tested for that type of protection. For instance, a rating of IPX7 means the phone is water-resistant but not tested for dust protection. Devices that are dust-proof but not water-resistant are rare.

Phones with an IP69K rating can even withstand high-pressure, high-temperature water jets, meaning they can be washed with hot water under pressure.

Limitations of IP Ratings

It's important to understand that an IP certificate is not a comprehensive guarantee. The international IEC standard provides general definitions and not specific protection parameters. Each manufacturer interprets these standards based on their understanding and testing conditions. For example, the IP68 rating often applies only to fresh water. Therefore, you shouldn't swim in the sea with your Samsung Galaxy S24, as its components can rust due to salt water exposure.

Specialized Protection

For full protection against water, especially salt water, consider phones from specialized manufacturers that provide clear guarantees. Brands like Crosscall or Kyocera offer phones that are resistant to salt water, providing more reliable protection in harsh environments.

In summary, while IP ratings give a useful indication of a phone's resistance to dust and water, they come with limitations. Always check the specifics of your phone's certification and consider specialized devices if you need extra protection.