Similar to their predecessor, the Samsung Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ feature an IP68 certification that makes them dust and water-resistant. If this will be your first Galaxy device or a smartphone in general, then there’s a lot you need to know about the Galaxy S8’s IP68 certification.

While Samsung has been heavily advertising the Galaxy S8’s water resistance in its ads, it does not mention the important facts and fine prints.

What does the IP68 certification of Galaxy S8 mean?

The ‘IP’ in the ‘IP68’ certification of the Galaxy S8 and S8+ stands for Ingress Protection, with the 68 denoting the level of protection. The ‘6’ in the ‘IP68’ means that the Galaxy S8 and its Plus sibling are fully protected against any kind of dust ingress. As for the ‘8’, it denotes that the handsets are resistant to water ingress for 30 mins for up to 1.5m depth but only in fresh water.

This is the highest level of IP certification available for consumer devices. It is also higher than that of the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, which features an IP67 rating. The Galaxy S7 and S7 edge last year also had an IP68 certification. It was an impressive feat from Samsung to be able to achieve a certain degree of waterproofing on its flagship devices without compromising on their design and functionality in any way by introducing ugly flaps like it had to do with the Galaxy S5.

The Fine Print

The important thing to note, however, is that the IP rating of the device does not make it resistant to all and any kind of liquid. Pressurised water can easily breach the water resistance seal of the handset and seep inside it thereby damaging the internals. Similarly, salt/sea water is a strict no-no. Do NOT take your Galaxy S8 with you to the beach for swimming thinking nothing will happen. Sea water can cause a lot of damage to water resistant devices. If you do end up dropping your Galaxy S8 in salt/sea water, quickly take it out and even if it is working fine, wash it thoroughly with fresh water and then dry it properly. If you spill any other liquid on your Galaxy S8, do the same thing.

Wear and Tear

The Galaxy S8 and S8+ achieve their IP68 certification by sealing the internals using rubber gaskets. The IP certification of the device will deteriorate over time, though this should not make a huge difference. Most importantly, though, if you drop your Galaxy S8 and its frame or the structure of the chassis is affected in any way, its IP rating can be compromised. Similarly, if the front or rear glass panel of the device shatters, the IP rating of the device will be affected.

No Warranty

Despite being IP68 certified and Samsung highlighting the dust and water-resistance capabilities of the Galaxy S8 and S8+, the handsets are NOT covered for any kind of liquid damage under Samsung’s one-year limited warranty. So, if you somehow do end up causing liquid damage to your Galaxy S8/S8+, don’t expect Samsung to replace or fix your phone for free.

So, while the Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8+ are water resistant, there is more to their IP68 certification that what Samsung tells you and their ad suggests. Will this make you reconsider your decision to buy the Galaxy S8 though? Drop a comment and let us know!