How to Tell If Your Samsung Galaxy Is Waterproof or Water-Resistant

• Recent models of the Samsung Galaxy phone, including the S10 and S20 models, are water-resistant to a degree, but you should still use caution with these pricey devices.
• All Galaxy models dating back to the Galaxy S7 have the same water-resistance rating of IP68.
• Damage or wear and tear caused by extended use can reduce the efficacy of a phone's water resistance, so take care over time to protect your phone.

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Samsung Galaxy S10 and S20 smartphones have an IP68 rating, which means they are resistant to ingress from dust and water-resistant to a degree.

The IP Code, which stands for International Protection Marking but is also commonly known as Ingress Protection Marking, is maintained by the International Electrotechnical Commission, and gives consumers a shorthand way to understand their device's resistance to various types of damage.

The first digit refers to solid object ingression protection (from damage caused by your fingers to particles of dust), and ranges from zero to six. The second number refers to the water resistance of the device and ranges from zero to nine. 

No current smartphone on the market is "waterproof," as none are completely impervious to water damage.

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The Galaxy S10 and S20 have the same water-resistance rating as other recent models of the phone

All models of Samsung Galaxy phone dating back to the S7, and including newer models such as the S10 and S20 models, have the same IP68 rating — meaning these phones can withstand being submerged in up to 1.5 meters, or nearly five feet, of water for up to 30 minutes.

Read more: Samsung's new Galaxy S10 is almost a master class in how to make a superb, premium smartphone

The IP68 rating is applied to a new phone in perfect condition. Real-world conditions (using the phone, e.g.) can compromise its dust and water resistance. A crack in the case or a worn down seal around cord connection points could both create a potential entry point for water that could ruin the phone.

Also keep in mind that when the IP Code refers to water, it means fresh H2O, not salt water. And not other liquids, either, such as oils or fuel or certain beverages that could be corrosive.

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Older Samsung Galaxy phones are not water-resistant

Any Samsung Galaxy phone released prior to the S7, which came out in March 2016, does not feature an IP rating and thus is not water-resistant.

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The warranty on your Samsung Galaxy won't cover water damage

So your phone is water-resistant! Great news! But what if it suffers from water damage anyway, after the waterproofing measures fail or a crack in the case allows water into the phone — are you covered by Samsung's warranty?

"Unfortunately, no," a customer service representative said, when asked about the Galaxy S10. "Water damage and physical damage are not covered under the warranty offered by Samsung."

Yes, your Galaxy S7 or later will probably do just fine if splashed or even submerged, and you can use it in the drizzle without much concern. But if the waterproofing fails and the phone is damaged or destroyed, it's time to get out your wallet, not your Samsung policy paperwork.

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Freelance Writer

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