Despite the marvels of modern technology, smartphones like the iPhone still face a timeless problem: water damage. Many folks have turned to the old trick of placing a wet phone in a bag of rice, hoping it would soak up the moisture and save their device. However, Apple has stepped in with some official advice.
On a dedicated support page for wet iPhones, Apple bluntly warns against the rice method, stating that it could actually harm the phone by introducing small particles into its delicate components. They also advise against using heat sources or compressed air, as these could further damage the device.
So, what’s the proper way to handle a wet iPhone? According to Apple, start by unplugging it from any power source and gently tapping it to help the liquid inside escape. Then, let it sit in a well-ventilated area, like in front of a fan, for around 30 minutes. After that, you can try charging it or connecting accessories, but if the connector is still wet, it’s best to wait a full 24 hours.
Some iPhone models have a handy liquid detection feature that alerts you if moisture is present. Once the liquid evaporates, the warning will disappear, and you can resume normal use.
While iPhones are built to be resistant to splashes, water, and dust, it’s important to remember that they’re not completely waterproof. And unfortunately, liquid damage isn’t covered by Apple’s warranty.
The idea of using rice as a drying agent might have originated from its ability to absorb moisture, similar to those little silica packets you find in packaging. However, there’s not much solid evidence to back up its effectiveness.
While you might come across other drying methods online, it’s best to stick with Apple’s official recommendations and give your iPhone some time to dry naturally. And as they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure—so do your best to keep your phone away from water in the first place!
