Water resistant limits

[Halloweenoreo]

So these phones are water resistant but what about salt water? On Vacation and would love to take it into the ocean for a few minutes to take some underwater shots but will the phone survive a 5 min snorkel session?

 

[Gary02468]

No, IP68 does not specify any protection against salt water. (See the S8 user manual.)

 

[ZOMMBIE1]

I haven't got to take my S8+ for a swim in the ocean yet. But did take my Note 7 and S7 edge in the ocean with no problems. Only thing is after that the water mark indicator in the sd card slot showed it had gotten wet.

 

[strikeIII]

It should be fine in a 5 min snorkel session. I would rinse it in fresh water or under a sink afterwards.

 

[Morty2264]

Saltwater is most likely a no-no, unfortunately! But that would be cool if it could be used to take those pictures! Enjoy your trip, OP!

 

[Halloweenoreo]

No, IP68 does not specify any protection against salt water. (See the S8 user manual.)

That's what I was afraid of. Thanks

 

[theelite1x87]

Salt water is corrosive. The phone will certainly be water resistant. And a couple times going probably won't see any effects. But the salt water will eat away at the gaskets and seals eventually ruining the water resistance. Rinsing phone after word with tap water will help but most damage will be done while it's underwater. I wouldn't recommend it.

 

[dejanh]

Salt water is corrosive. The phone will certainly be water resistant. And a couple times going probably won't see any effects. But the salt water will eat away at the gaskets and seals eventually ruining the water resistance. Rinsing phone after word with tap water will help but most damage will be done while it's underwater. I wouldn't recommend it.

Another issue with salt water that is commonly overlooked is that salt will desposit permanently in any crevices that were not thoroughly rinsed. I don't recommend taking the phone into salt water.

 

[jeffmd]

Water proof, not salt proof. The seals react badly to anything corrosive.

 

[Whiskey619]

So these phones are water resistant but what about salt water? On Vacation and would love to take it into the ocean for a few minutes to take some underwater shots but will the phone survive a 5 min snorkel session?

I just took mine swimming yesterday. I'm sure the phone would be fine from the water side of things, if you're near the surface and the water is calm. Keep in mind, they're rated for pressure, and a strong wave hitting the phone can exert more pressure than the you'd get at the depth its rated for. Also, sea water tends to have some sand suspended in it, so consider the risk off scratching the screen and take appropriate precautions with a screen protector.

 

[sparkeater79]

The phone will tell you there is water in the chargeing port. Does this mean water got somewhere it isn't supposed to or that simply there is water there so don't plug in? Anyone know?

 

[theelite1x87]

No. That warning to to let you know you shouldn't charge the phone if port is wet. The USB C port is totally open (sealed internally) so it'll get wet every time. Which is normal and fine but you shouldn't plug it when while wet. Hence the warning

 

[daddyd302]

This is the warning from Samsung on the S7 so it's most likely gonna be true for the S8 as well.
"If your device is exposed to salt water, wash the device with fresh water, and then dry thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth. Otherwise, when it dries, salt may accumulate and block the primary microphone, earpiece, and external speaker."
Galaxy S7 - Is my Samsung Galaxy S7 Dust and Water-resistant (IP68 Rating)?

 

[brau0303]

Something to consider with the phone getting wet, As stated in the S7 link from daddyd302 the volume may be affected because there would likely be water in key locations (including the mike).

**Here are some best practices**
-it's a bad idea to use compressed air (or similar to try to blow the moisture out) let it air dry.
-You should be able to use any bluetooth ear bud or similar with no issues.

Cheers,
BR

 

[dpham00]

Also remember that the warranty doesn't include water damage... So if it was damaged due to when you took it into the ocean then Samsung won't fix it under warranty

 

[jeffmd]

Was going to repeat what dpham came to say. Just because the phone has an IPS rating in no way means samsung will not fault you for any water damage. And the seals on the phone are tested with water, and water only. Using any other solution can break down those seals.

 

[TheyCallMeBT]

Get one of these dry bags and you'll be solid. I used it with my S7 in Jamaica and Grand Cayman. Got some great shots. Mind the pressure, though. I wouldn't go more than a few feet down with it.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CO4BAL...ag=hawk-future-20&ascsubtag=UUacUvbUpU5819009

 

[dpham00]

The bags are a good idea. They aren't fool proof but they do add a layer of protection.

 

[TheyCallMeBT]

First test them by putting one square of TP inside it and submerge it. It should come out completely dry.

 

[Alanhd]

It will probably survive but why risk such an expensive item when waterproof cameras are so cheap.

A dedicated waterproof camera is more versatile and gives you new possibilities of what you can do rather than just a quick dip.