The iPhone 12 Pro Max is one of the most advanced smartphones ever created by Apple. With its gorgeous 6.7-inch OLED display, triple-lens camera system, and A14 Bionic processor, it packs incredible performance into a slick and durable design. But how well does it hold up against water damage? With a starting price of $1,099 for the 128GB model, it’s an investment people want to protect.
In this article, we’ll examine the water resistance rating of the iPhone 12 Pro Max and how well its design protects against common water risks. We’ll look at real-world water tests, Apple’s official water damage policy, and tips to prevent liquid exposure. Let’s dive in to see how waterproof the iPhone 12 Pro Max really is.
Water Resistance Rating
The iPhone 12 Pro Max has an IP68 water resistance rating according to Apple’s technical specifications [1]. This means that the phone is rated to withstand water submersion up to a maximum depth of 6 meters for up to 30 minutes.
The IP rating system classifies the level of ingress protection provided against intrusion from solid objects, dust, and water. The first digit after the IP refers to solid particle protection, while the second digit refers to liquid ingress protection. The higher the digits, the better the protection.
An IP68 rating specifically indicates that the phone was tested and certified as being “dust tight” and protected against the effects of continuous immersion in water up to the stated depth and time. However, it’s important to note that the IP68 rating does not indicate that the iPhone 12 Pro Max is completely waterproof.
Water Damage Coverage
Unfortunately, Apple’s one-year limited warranty does not cover liquid or water damage for iPhones or iPods. This is stated clearly in their warranty terms (https://www.apple.com/legal/warranty/products/iphone-english-australia.html). Even the more expensive AppleCare+ extended warranty does not cover water damage repairs. Instead, AppleCare+ allows you to pay a lower service fee for water damage incidents – $149 for iPhone 12 Pro Max in the US.
If an iPhone 12 Pro Max has been liquid damaged, Apple recommends inspecting it for external indicators of water exposure. Then use the Apple Support app to run diagnostics and check for internal water damage. The final determination of whether liquid caused damage to the iPhone will be made by Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider.
Some confusion exists because iPhone 12 Pro Max does have an IP68 water resistance rating. However, Apple is very clear this is for accidental splashes and brief submersion only, not warrantied usage in water (https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT207043). Any water exposure beyond the IP68 test conditions voids water damage coverage.
Liquid Contact Indicators
The iPhone 12 Pro Max has liquid contact indicators (LCIs) designed to indicate possible water damage. According to Apple Support, “The indicator’s color is normally white or silver, but when it contacts water or a liquid containing water, it will turn fully red.” [1] The LCIs are located in the SIM card slot, by the charging port, and on the logic board inside the phone.
When examining an iPhone for water damage, the LCIs should be checked first. A red LCI indicates water has gotten inside that area and has likely caused corrosion. However, it’s important to note that LCIs have limitations – a white or silver LCI does not necessarily mean no water damage occurred. The indicators can miss moisture exposure or become discolored over time.
Water Resistance Tests
The iPhone 12 Pro Max has an IP68 water resistance rating, which means it can withstand being submerged in up to 6 meters of water for up to 30 minutes without damage, according to Apple’s official specifications (https://www.apple.com/iphone-12-pro/). Various independent tests have confirmed this level of water resistance.
In a waterproof test by CNET, the iPhone 12 Pro Max survived being submerged in 19 feet of water for 30 minutes with no issues (https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/iphone-12-water-test-how-deep-can-apples-phone-really-go/). Everything functioned normally, including the screen, cameras, microphone and speakers. Other tests of IP68 phones like the Galaxy S21 Ultra had similar results.
YouTubers have also done real-world water tests, like swimming with the iPhone 12 Pro Max, and found that it continued working after multiple lengths of pool and ocean swimming (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLcG1l8epZw). Overall, these tests confirm Apple’s water resistance claims and show the iPhone 12 Pro Max can withstand water exposure under normal usage conditions.
Day-to-Day Water Exposure
The iPhone 12 Pro Max has an IP68 water resistance rating, which means it can withstand water exposure from common daily activities like getting caught in the rain or accidentally splashing your phone (1).
Light splashes and rain should not damage the iPhone 12 Pro Max thanks to the water-resistant design. You can comfortably use your phone in a light rain shower. However, it’s still best to avoid unnecessary water exposure when possible.
Washing your hands or doing dishes with the iPhone 12 Pro Max nearby is also safe. The occasional water splash will bead up and roll off the phone without seeping into the internal components.
Just keep in mind the iPhone 12 Pro Max is water resistant, not waterproof. So you don’t want to be constantly getting it wet unnecessarily. But for day-to-day, incidental water exposure, the iPhone 12 Pro Max can handle it just fine.
Swimming & Submersion
While the iPhone 12 Pro Max has an impressive IP68 water resistance rating, it should not be deliberately submerged in water for extended periods of time. The IP68 rating means the iPhone 12 Pro Max can withstand submersion in up to 6 meters of water for up to 30 minutes. However, Apple does not recommend intentionally exposing the iPhone to extended water submersion (1).
Prolonged exposure to water can still cause liquid damage issues over time. The water resistance seals can wear down and allow water ingress into the phone’s internals. In addition, the pressure at deeper depths can potentially force water past the seals. Submerging the iPhone 12 Pro Max in a swimming pool or other body of water is considered abnormal use and can void the warranty (2).
If the iPhone 12 Pro Max is accidentally submerged for longer periods or deeper depths, liquid damage is more likely to occur. Symptoms may not appear right away but corrosion can develop over time, leading to issues down the road. It’s best to avoid deliberately submerging the iPhone to minimize long-term water damage risks.
(1) https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/iphone-12-water-test-how-deep-can-apples-phone-really-go/
(2) https://discussions.apple.com/thread/252967577
Long-Term Water Exposure
Prolonged water exposure can cause significant damage to an iPhone 12 Pro Max over time. According to Apple Support, water damage is not covered under the one-year limited warranty (https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204104). While the phone may seem to function normally at first, corrosion can occur internally.
One of the biggest risks with long-term water exposure is corrosion of the logic board and internal components. As moisture sits inside the phone, it can cause oxidation and bridging between circuits and solder points. This can eventually lead to short circuits and system failures over time. The phone may randomly reboot, have problems charging, or stop functioning entirely.
Another issue is damage to the screen and back glass. As water penetrates these components, it can cause cracks, dead pixels, and unresponsiveness. The touch screen may become unusable over time. The back glass can also crack or shatter due to stresses from water intrusion and corrosion occurring underneath.
Additionally, the battery can be impacted by prolonged water exposure. This can reduce battery life and capacity over time. In some cases, the battery may swell or rupture. Water can also damage other components like the cameras, speakers, microphones, and Lightning port.
While the iPhone 12 Pro Max is water resistant, it is not impervious to water damage. Prolonged exposure can still cause major issues over time. Seeking quick repair is recommended if the phone has had extended contact with moisture or liquids.
Water Damage Prevention
There are several steps you can take to help prevent water damage to your iPhone 12 Pro Max:
Use a waterproof case – Investing in a waterproof case from brands like Lifeproof or Otterbox can protect your iPhone from water exposure during activities like swimming or using your phone in the rain. Make sure any waterproof case you buy is designed specifically for your iPhone model.
Avoid excess moisture – Try not to expose your iPhone to excess moisture. For example, avoid swimming or showering with your iPhone, as the water pressure can impact water resistance seals and allow water ingress.
Don’t charge wet devices – As per Apple (source), don’t attempt to charge your iPhone if it gets wet. Make sure it’s completely dry before charging to avoid short circuiting or damage.
Dry off any wetness – If moisture does get on your iPhone, be sure to gently dry it off completely with a soft, lint-free cloth before charging it.
Inspect regularly – Check the water-resistant seals regularly for any signs of wear and tear or damage, and replace seals if needed.
Avoid hot environments – Avoid leaving your iPhone in hot, humid environments, as this can impact the water resistance over time.
Conclusion
In summary, while the iPhone 12 Pro Max has an impressive IP68 water resistance rating, it is still possible for it to sustain water damage in certain situations. The phone can handle incidental exposure to water like rain or splashes, but should not be intentionally submerged in water for prolonged periods of time. Using the phone in the rain or washing hands while holding it should be fine, but activities like swimming or taking it in the shower are not recommended.
To avoid liquid damage, it’s best to keep the iPhone away from water whenever possible. While the water resistance protects against occasional splashes or drops in water, it is not meant for the phone to be used underwater. Using a waterproof case provides an additional layer of protection for underwater activities. It’s also important to avoid exposing the iPhone to soaps, oils, saltwater or other liquids which can break down the water seal over time.
With proper everyday care and caution around water, an iPhone 12 Pro Max can enjoy a long life protected against fluid damage. But users should be aware that water resistance is never a guarantee, and any prolonged or extensive water exposure can still result in water damage to the device.
