Is the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Waterproof?
TLDR
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra has an IP68 rating, meaning it is water-resistant and can handle being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. However, it’s not recommended for beach or pool use and it’s not “waterproof” because it is impervious to all water and pressures. So, it’s best to avoid contact with water when possible.
Regarding smartphones and water, two common terms are water-resistant and waterproof. However, these terms are not interchangeable and represent different levels of protection against water. So, is the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra waterproof? Let’s dig into this.
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra comes with an IP68 rating, which is important in determining whether a device is waterproof or water-resistant. IP stands for “Ingress Protection” and is an international standard that defines the levels of sealing effectiveness of electrical enclosures against intrusion from foreign bodies and moisture. The first digit (6) in IP68 refers to the device’s resistance to solid particles, like dust, while the second digit (8) refers to the device’s resistance to liquids.
In the case of the S23 Ultra, an IP68 rating means that, based on lab test conditions, the device is resistant to submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. In other words, if you accidentally drop your S23 Ultra in a sink or a shallow pond and it remains submerged for less than half an hour, it should theoretically come out unscathed. However, it’s essential to note that this doesn’t mean the device is fully “waterproof” because it can withstand any and all interactions with water.
It’s also important to note that the IP68 rating does not advise for beach or pool use. This is because the rating is specific to freshwater and does not guarantee the same level of protection against other types of water. Salty seawater and chemically treated pool water can damage the device that freshwater does not. Furthermore, the pressure applied to the device during activities such as swimming can also exceed the conditions specified in the IP68 rating, leading to potential water ingress.
So, to answer the initial question: the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is not waterproof because it can be subjected to all types of water or pressures without the risk of damage. However, it is highly water-resistant, offering significant protection against accidental submersion in freshwater for limited periods of time. As with all electronic devices, though, it’s best to avoid contact with water when possible to ensure the device’s longevity.
