Google Says the Quiet Part Out Loud: IP68 Protection Doesn’t Last
It's one of the key marketing bullet points for any flagship phone: "IP68 water and dust resistance." It's a phrase that gives us a sense of security, a feeling that our expensive new device is tough enough to survive life's little accidents. But with the launch of the new Pixel 10 Pro Fold, Google has pulled back the curtain on this industry-wide secret, a truth that's long been buried in the fine print: that IP68 rating doesn't last forever.
For years, phone manufacturers have sold us on the idea of a water-resistant device, but they've rarely, if ever, openly acknowledged the eventual degradation of those protections. Google, however, has broken that silence. In the fine print for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, the company explicitly warns that the device's water and dust protection "will diminish or be lost over time due to normal wear and tear, device repair, disassembly or damage."
This isn't just a boilerplate warning; it’s a crucial piece of consumer information that fundamentally changes how we should view our devices' durability.
What Does IP68 Actually Mean?
First, let's understand what an IP68 rating is. It's an international standard (IEC 60529) that rates a device's protection against solid objects and liquids.
The "6" means the device is completely dust-tight, offering the highest level of protection against solid particles.
The "8" means the device can withstand being submerged in water under specific conditions, which vary by manufacturer. For most phones, this means immersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh, still water for 30 minutes.
It’s important to note that IP68 means "water resistant," not "waterproof." A device with this rating is designed to survive an accidental drop in a sink or a sudden rainstorm, not to be a dedicated underwater camera.
Why Does IP68 Protection Degrade?
The reason the IP68 rating isn't a permanent guarantee lies in the very nature of how phones are sealed. Manufacturers use a combination of seals, gaskets, and adhesives to create a watertight barrier. Over time, these materials are subject to a number of stressors that compromise their effectiveness:
Normal Wear and Tear: Everyday use, such as slipping your phone in and out of your pocket, can put stress on the seals.
Physical Damage: Dropping or bumping your phone, even if it doesn't cause a visible crack, can shift components and break the internal seals.
Heat and Temperature Changes: Exposure to extreme heat or cold can cause the adhesives and rubber seals to expand and contract, leading to tiny cracks and weaknesses.
Chemical Exposure: Liquids like chlorinated pool water, saltwater, or even common household cleaners can degrade the materials used for sealing, making them brittle and less effective.
Repair or Disassembly: Any time the phone is opened for a repair, the original factory seals are broken. While a reputable repair service will attempt to re-seal the device, it's virtually impossible to achieve the same level of integrity as the initial factory build.
The Foldable Factor: A New Challenge
Google's decision to be transparent with the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is particularly relevant for foldable devices. The complex hinge mechanism and the constant flexing of the internal screen present a unique set of durability challenges. While Google claims the hinge can handle "10+ years of folding," the constant movement naturally puts stress on the internal components and, critically, the sealing that keeps water and dust out.
What This Means for You
Google's honesty is a wake-up call for all smartphone owners. The IP68 rating should be seen as a feature that provides peace of mind for accidental situations, not as a license to take your phone swimming.
Here’s what you should take away from this:
Don't Push Your Luck: Avoid intentionally submerging your phone. The IP rating is there to protect against accidents, not to enable underwater photography.
Be Mindful of Liquids: Saltwater and chlorinated water are particularly corrosive and can quickly destroy the seals.
Treat Your Phone with Care: Even minor drops and bumps can compromise the seals. Use a case to provide an extra layer of protection.
Liquid Damage is Still Not Covered by Warranty: Despite the IP rating, almost all manufacturers' warranties explicitly state that liquid damage voids coverage. This fine print has always been there, but Google is now shining a spotlight on why.
By being open about the temporary nature of IP68 protection, Google has done a service to consumers. It's a reminder that a phone's "water resistance" is a fleeting feature that you should never fully rely on. The best way to protect your device remains the simplest: keep it away from water whenever possible.
