Google Warns: IP68 Rating Does Not Guarantee Permanent Water and Dust Protection

Modern smartphones and various mobile devices often boast an IP68 rating, indicating they are designed to resist water and dust intrusion. However, Google has issued a cautionary note regarding the long-term efficacy of this protection.

The recent launch of Google's Pixel 10 Pro Fold marked a significant milestone, as it is touted as the first foldable smartphone to carry an IP68 certification. This rating suggests the device is dust-tight and can withstand immersion in water under certain conditions.

Despite this robust rating, Google emphasized in a recent communication on their social media platform X that users should not overly rely on this level of protection. According to Google, the durability of water and dust resistance can diminish over time due to regular wear and tear, repairs, disassembly, or physical damage to the device. Furthermore, the phone is not designed to endure drops or impacts, which could also compromise its protective features.

As a result, any physical damage caused by drops, impacts, or other external factors will not be covered under warranty, and liquid damage will void the warranty entirely.

This warning is not entirely new, as the limitations of water resistance have been recognized for some time. A 2019 article highlighted that testing for such certifications, like those conducted by TÜV Süd, typically only applies to fresh water. Saltwater or chlorinated water are generally excluded from these tests, and even common shower products can damage the seals of a device.

In a notable case from 2019, Australian consumer advocates filed a lawsuit against Samsung for misleading advertising, claiming that the company implicitly suggested its devices could withstand saltwater exposure after being showcased in beach settings. A federal court subsequently fined Samsung $14 million for this misleading representation.

It is essential to understand that IP ratings only apply to brand new devices. There is no guarantee that a product will pass the same tests after two years of regular use as it did when first tested. Despite this reality, manufacturers often imply a lasting level of protection when referencing the IP code. Therefore, consumers should exercise caution with devices marketed as waterproof.