Is My Pixel Phone Waterproof? IP Ratings Explained

No, your Pixel phone is not waterproof, but most recent models are water-resistant. Waterproof means no water can get in at all, which no phone truly is. Water-resistant means the phone is built to survive accidental splashes, rain, and brief submersion in fresh water, up to a specific depth and time. The exact level of protection depends on your Pixel model and its IP (Ingress Protection) rating.

What the IP Rating Actually Means

The IP rating is a two-digit standard. The first digit (6 on all modern Pixels) rates protection against solid particles like dust. A rating of 6 means the device is dust-tight. The second digit rates water resistance. On Pixel phones, this is usually 7 or 8. A rating of 7 means the phone can be immersed in up to 1 meter (about 3.3 feet) of fresh water for 30 minutes. A rating of 8 means it can go deeper, but the manufacturer specifies the exact depth and time. For example, the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro have an IP68 rating, meaning they can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters (about 5 feet) of fresh water for 30 minutes. The Pixel 7 and 7 Pro also have IP68, while the Pixel 6a has IP67 (1 meter for 30 minutes).

Which Pixel Models Are Water-Resistant?

Here is the water-resistance rating for each Pixel series, based on official Google specifications:

• Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 8a: IP68 (1.5 m for 30 min)
• Pixel 7, 7 Pro: IP68 (1.5 m for 30 min)
• Pixel 7a: IP67 (1 m for 30 min)
• Pixel 6, 6 Pro: IP68 (1.5 m for 30 min)
• Pixel 6a: IP67 (1 m for 30 min)
• Pixel 5, 5a: IP68 (1.5 m for 30 min)
• Pixel 4, 4 XL: IP68 (1.5 m for 30 min)
• Pixel 3, 3 XL: IP68 (1.5 m for 30 min)
• Pixel 2, 2 XL: IP67 (1 m for 30 min)
• Pixel (2016), Pixel XL: No official IP rating

If you own an original Pixel or Pixel XL, do not rely on any water resistance. Even for rated models, the protection is for fresh water only, not salt water, chlorinated pools, or other liquids.

Water Resistance vs. Waterproof: The Key Difference

Waterproof is an absolute term. A waterproof object is completely impervious to water. No smartphone meets that definition because water can eventually seep through the seals, especially as the phone ages. Water resistance is a measure of how well the phone can keep water out under controlled conditions. The IP test is done on a brand-new phone with intact seals, in a lab, using still fresh water. Real-world conditions—like a splash of salt water, a drop into a pool, or a high-pressure faucet—are much harsher and can overcome the protection.

What Can Damage Water Resistance?

Even if your Pixel has an IP68 rating, its water resistance is not permanent. Several factors can reduce or eliminate it:

• Physical damage: A cracked screen, a dented frame, or a chipped SIM tray can break the seals.
• Repairs: If the phone has been opened for battery or screen replacement, the adhesive seals may not be reapplied correctly, especially if done by an unauthorized service center.
• Aging: The rubber gaskets and adhesive degrade over time. A two-year-old phone may not resist water as well as it did on day one.
• Temperature changes: Rapid temperature swings can cause condensation inside the phone, which is not covered by the IP rating.

What to Do If Your Pixel Gets Wet

If your Pixel gets wet, follow these steps immediately:

1. Remove the phone from the water as quickly as possible.
2. Power it off immediately. Do not try to charge it or press buttons.
3. Gently shake out any water from the USB-C port and speakers.
4. Dry the outside with a soft, lint-free cloth.
5. Place the phone upright in a dry, well-ventilated area. Do not use a hairdryer, oven, or rice. Rice is not recommended because starch dust can get into the ports and cause more damage.
6. Wait at least 24 hours before turning it back on. If you must charge it, make sure the port is completely dry.

Common Misconceptions

There are several myths about water resistance that can lead to costly mistakes:

• “IP68 means I can take photos underwater.” The touchscreen may not respond correctly underwater, and the camera lens may be blurred by water droplets. Also, the pressure at depth can exceed the rating.
• “Salt water is fine as long as I rinse it off.” Salt water is corrosive. If your phone is exposed to salt water, rinse it gently with fresh water afterward and dry it thoroughly.
• “The warranty covers water damage.” Most phone warranties explicitly exclude water damage, even if the phone has an IP rating. The IP rating is a design specification, not a guarantee of coverage.

How to Check Your Pixel’s Water Resistance

You can check the IP rating of your specific model in the Settings app. Go to Settings > About phone > Specs or look up the model number online. The IP rating is also printed on the original packaging. If you are buying a used Pixel, ask the seller if the phone has ever been opened for repairs, as that can compromise the seals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I swim with my Pixel phone?

No. Even with IP68, swimming involves movement, pressure changes, and often chlorine or salt water, all of which can exceed the phone’s tested limits. The IP rating is for accidental submersion, not recreational use.

Will water damage void my warranty?

Yes, in most cases. The standard Google warranty does not cover liquid damage. Some credit cards or third-party insurance plans may offer accidental damage coverage, but that is separate from the manufacturer warranty.

How long does water resistance last?

It depends on usage and wear. The seals can degrade from drops, heat, or normal aging. There is no fixed timeline, but a phone that is several years old or has been repaired is less likely to be fully water-resistant.

Does the IP rating apply to all liquids?

No. The IP test uses fresh water. Other liquids—soda, coffee, beer, seawater—can be more corrosive or conductive, and may damage the phone even if the IP rating is high.

What should I do if my phone was in water and won’t turn on?

Do not try to charge it or force it on. Leave it off and let it dry for at least 48 hours in a dry place. If it still won’t turn on, contact a professional repair service. Do not put it in rice—it can introduce fine particles into the ports.

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