Is the iPhone 16 Waterproof?
No. It’s IP68 water-resistant！
Although the iPhone 16 is officially rated IP68 under IEC standard 60529, meaning it can withstand up to 6 meters of freshwater for 30 minutes under laboratory conditions. However, this rating assumes static, clean water at 25°C ± 5°C, and does not reflect real-world environments like oceans, rivers, or swimming pools！
Once, Apple officials said, " We do not recommend intentional submersion, and liquid damage isn’t covered by the standard warranty. Use a proper dive housing or an iPhone waterproof Case if you plan to shoot underwater.
Last iPhone Waterproof Ratings (Up to a Depth)
| iPhone Model | IP Rating | Maximum Depth | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 / 16 Plus / 16 Pro / 16 Pro Max | IP68 | 6 meters (19.7 feet) | Up to 30 minutes |
| iPhone 15 / 15 Plus / 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max | IP68 | 6 meters (19.7 feet) | Up to 30 minutes |
| iPhone 14 / 14 Plus / 14 Pro / 14 Pro Max | IP68 | 6 meters (19.7 feet) | Up to 30 minutes |
| iPhone 13 / 13 Mini / 13 Pro / 13 Pro Max | IP68 | 6 meters (19.7 feet) | Up to 30 minutes |
| iPhone 12 / 12 Mini / 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max | IP68 | 6 meters (19.7 feet) | Up to 30 minutes |
| iPhone 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max | IP68 | 4 meters (13.1 feet) | Up to 30 minutes |
| iPhone 11 | IP68 | 2 meters (6.6 feet) | Up to 30 minutes |
| iPhone XS / XS Max | IP68 | 2 meters (6.6 feet) | Up to 30 minutes |
| iPhone XR / iPhone X / iPhone 8 / 8 Plus | IP67 | 1 meter (3.3 feet) | Up to 30 minutes |
Can You Safely Shoot Underwater With an iPhone?
From a technical perspective, the answer is "yes, but with conditions." While the iPhone 16 series boasts an IP68 rating, it's only certified for immersion in freshwater up to six meters for up to thirty minutes under laboratory conditions—but this doesn't mean the device is truly "waterproof."
Apple explicitly states that water resistance isn't permanent and may diminish over time due to normal wear and tear, contact with soap or chemicals, or repeated impacts. Furthermore, liquid damage isn't covered by Apple's standard warranty.
For this reason, underwater photographers use specially designed submersible housings designed to withstand greater depths and water pressure while ensuring the capacitive touchscreen remains functional once submerged.
8 Expert Tips for Capturing Underwater Photos with Your iPhone
Using a waterproof case to take underwater photos with your iPhone can produce amazing photos. Here are 8 tips to help you maximize underwater image quality while protecting your device.
1. Test your waterproof case for leaks
Before using your iPhone underwater, submerge the case in water for 10-30 minutes to check for leaks!
2. Choose the right environment
Water clarity, light, and depth can greatly affect image quality. It is recommended that you shoot in shallow water with plenty of sunlight and avoid dark or low-visibility environments. According to experience, early morning or midday is the best time
3. Use the volume button to shoot
The touchscreen may become unresponsive underwater. Using the iPhone's volume up or down button as a shutter control allows for more reliable shooting.
4. Use burst mode to shoot
Because subjects such as fish or waves move quickly, use burst mode to quickly take a series of photos, and then you can choose the clearest one.
5. Use an ultra-wide-angle lens
It is recommended to use a 0.5x lens to not only improve the quality of the photo but also expand the coverage of the photo.
6. Lock focus and exposure
Before submerging the camera in water, long-press the screen to lock the focus and exposure (AE/AF lock). This prevents the phone from constantly adjusting the focus and exposure to the flowing water.
7. Use editing tools to enhance the effect
Underwater photos often require post-processing. It is recommended to use applications such as Lightroom Mobile, Snapseed, or VSCO to adjust contrast, remove haze, and restore natural colors.
8. Use a tray or device to stabilize the shot
Because buoyancy and water flow may cause blurry photos when shooting, you can use a hard tray with double handles to ensure a stable composition.
Essential Gear for Underwater Photography with iPhone
To protect your phone and improve your shots, here are the must-haves:
1. Waterproof Dive Housing
A waterproof diving case is the most essential accessory for safe underwater photography on your iPhone. Professional deep-sea diving shell is engineered to withstand the higher pressures of deep water, completely sealing the phone to prevent leaks.
2. Wrist Strap or Tether
To protect your iPhone from being washed away by water, especially in the waves or deep water, wear a mobile phone wrist strap to firmly fix the iPhone on your wrist and improve safety!
3. Lighting
In turbid water or low-light underwater environments, using LED lights such as FOVITEC can significantly improve image clarity and color.
4. Anti-fog stickers
Such as SeaGold Anti-fog Droplets can help prevent the lens cover from fogging due to temperature changes, allowing you to take clear photos.
Come to a Conclusion
Although the iPhone is water-resistant, it is not completely waterproof. With the help of a Beeasy Case and professional photography skills, you can explore the underwater world even without professional diving equipment.