Discover the distinctions between mobile phone certifications for IP69, IP69K, and IP68
Manufacturers are making a concerted effort to convince us that mobile phones are more resilient than we previously believed. IP68 certification is currently the most prevalent feature of high-end mobile phones, but that is about to change.
More high-end phones, such as the OnePlus 13, are beginning to receive IP69 certification, which promises better defense against water and dust.
However, is this a true assurance of increased security? We described the IP67 and IP68 ratings and how a phone's water resistance is determined in our previous post. Thus, like IP69K, IP69 denotes the highest level of protection currently available. Naturally, they are not interchangeable, and we will outline the primary distinction between the two certifications here.
In what ways does IP69 differ from IP69K and IP68?
The degree of dust and water resistance of a device is determined by its IP (Ingress Protection) certification. Dust up to level 6 is represented by the first number, and water up to level 9 by the second.
A smartphone that has been certified IP69 is totally impervious to dust and is capable of withstanding strong jets of pressurized water at elevated temperatures. Please note that these features do not include submersion, so they do not ensure that your phone will withstand a drop.
In this sense, mobile phones are better suited for level 8 (IP68), which ensures that the gadget can be submerged in water. Is it possible for a mobile device to simultaneously obtain IP68 and IP69 certifications? Yes, and it will be shielded from high-pressure jets (IP69) and submersion in water (IP68).
As of right now, the IP69K certification is essentially the same. Though it is also utilized in the smartphone industry for ruggedized mobile phones that are better suited for use in dangerous environments like construction, it is thought to be the best resistance to dust and water and only applies to vehicles like cars or tractors.
Complete resistance to dust and pressurized hot water jets is confirmed by IP69K. The application is the only distinction between IP69 and IP69K. To be clear, IP69 and IP69K differ primarily in how they are used:
Devices situated in environments that are subjected to rigorous cleaning procedures, like the food or pharmaceutical industries, are intended to be IP69 compliant.
IP69K is made especially for in-car equipment and needs to survive extreme conditions like vibration and high pressure washing at car washes.
High-pressure and high-temperature water jet testing are part of both ratings; however, IP69K also includes vibration testing and other vehicle-specific testing.
- Are IP69 smartphones truly water-resistant?
A mobile phone's IP69 certification is insufficient in real-world and practical applications to offer total protection against water and dust. Ultimately, a cell phone must endure pressure jets, which are uncommon in daily life. An IP68 rating is better for them because of their ability to survive submersion in water.
It is also critical to remember that the tests required for this certification are carried out in clean, controlled laboratory settings. They do not accurately depict actual circumstances.
The conclusion is that it is critical to maintain your mobile phone in the best possible condition, regardless of its dependability. Taking care of it is what will actually ensure that it lasts as long as possible, without having to worry about unintentional drops or extremely dirty environments.