The Samsung S25 Ultra has an IP68 rating, which means it can survive submersion in fresh water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is not fully waterproof, but it is water-resistant. There is a meaningful difference. Waterproof means it will survive any water exposure indefinitely. Water-resistant means it can handle specific water conditions for a limited time. The S25 Ultra carries an IP68 rating, the second-highest water-resistance standard for phones.

IP68 means the phone can be submerged in fresh water at a depth of 1.5 meters (about 5 feet) for up to 30 minutes without water entering the device. This covers accidental drops in a pool, a sink, or a toilet. It does not cover ocean water, chlorinated pools, or pressurized water like a shower spray hitting the phone directly.

Key Takeaways

  • The S25 Ultra survives fresh water submersion up to 1.5 meters deep for 30 minutes, but salt water and chlorine can damage it over time.
  • Pressurized water from showers, hoses, or jets can force water past the seals even though the phone is rated IP68.
  • The rating does not cover water damage from drops, cracks, or wear to the seals—damage voids the water-resistance may provide.
  • Rinsing the phone with fresh water after salt water or chlorine exposure reduces the risk of corrosion to internal components.

What IP68 Actually Protects Against

The IP68 rating covers accidental water immersion in fresh water only. If you drop the phone in a bathtub, pool, or puddle and retrieve it within 30 minutes, the phone should work normally afterward. The seals around the screen, buttons, and charging port are designed to keep water out during this scenario.

The rating does not account for water that enters through cracks, loose seals, or ports that have been opened and closed repeatedly. If you have dropped the phone before or the charging port feels loose, the water-resistance may be compromised. Samsung does not test or may provide water-resistance on phones with visible damage.

What IP68 Does Not Protect Against

Salt water, chlorinated water, and soap are not covered by the IP68 rating. These substances can corrode the internal circuitry and battery contacts over time, even if they do not when ready cause the phone to fail. If the S25 Ultra is exposed to ocean water or a chlorinated pool, rinse it with fresh water as soon as possible and dry it thoroughly.

Pressurized water—from a shower, garden hose, or jet spray—can force water past the seals even though the phone is rated IP68. The rating assumes still water or gentle water movement, not water being sprayed directly at the phone under pressure. Do not intentionally spray the S25 Ultra with a hose or hold it under running tap water.

Hot water can also damage the seals. The adhesives that hold the water-resistant gaskets in place weaken at high temperatures. Avoid exposing the phone to steam, hot tubs, or saunas.

How Water Damage Affects Your Warranty

Samsung's standard one-year warranty does not cover water damage. If water enters the phone and causes a malfunction, Samsung will not repair or replace it for free. However, some carriers and third-party insurance plans cover accidental water damage—check your phone's insurance documentation to see what is included.

The phone contains a liquid contact indicator inside the charging port. This is a small sticker that changes color when exposed to moisture. If you bring the phone to Samsung for repair, they will check this indicator. If it has changed color, Samsung will know water entered the device, and your warranty claim will be denied.

What to Do If Water Gets Inside

If the S25 Ultra is submerged or exposed to water, power it off when ready. Do not try to charge it or turn it back on for at least 24 hours. Water inside the phone can cause a short circuit, which may permanently damage the motherboard.

Dry the phone with a soft cloth and leave it in a warm, dry place—not in direct sunlight or near a heat source. A sealed container with uncooked rice or silica gel packets can help absorb moisture, though this is less effective than straightforward waiting in a dry room. After 24 to 48 hours, power the phone on and check whether it works normally.

If the phone does not power on, or if you see condensation under the screen that does not clear after drying, water has likely reached the internal components. At this point, contact Samsung or your carrier to discuss repair options. Do not attempt to open the phone yourself—this will void any remaining warranty coverage.

Comparing the S25 Ultra to Other Flagship Phones

Most flagship Android phones and iPhones carry an IP68 rating, so the S25 Ultra is in line with its competitors. The iPhone 16 Pro, Google Pixel 9 Pro, and OnePlus 13 all have IP68 ratings with similar depth and duration limits. Some phones claim deeper submersion—up to 2 meters or longer—but the practical difference is small for everyday use.

The key difference between phones is not the IP rating itself but how well the seals hold up over time. Phones that have been dropped, exposed to temperature changes, or used for several years may lose water-resistance as the gaskets degrade. The S25 Ultra's seals are designed to last the life of the phone under normal use, but there is no way to test this without opening the device.

Tips for Keeping Your S25 Ultra Water-Safe

Avoid opening the charging port or SIM card tray unnecessarily. Each time you open these ports, you disturb the seals. If you must access the SIM tray, do it in a dry environment and make sure the tray clicks fully back into place.

Rinse the phone with fresh water after exposure to salt water, chlorine, or soap, then dry it when ready with a soft cloth. This removes corrosive substances before they can damage the internal components. Do not use compressed air to dry the phone—the pressure can force water deeper into the device.

Keep the phone away from extreme temperatures. Avoid leaving it in a hot car, near a heater, or in a freezer. Temperature swings can cause the seals to expand and contract, creating tiny gaps where water can enter.

Use a protective case if you spend time near water. A waterproof case adds an extra layer of protection and can save the phone if it is dropped in deeper water or exposed to pressurized water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the S25 Ultra underwater to take photos?

Yes, you can take photos underwater up to 1.5 meters deep for up to 30 minutes. The camera works normally underwater, and the screen is responsive even when wet. However, avoid touching the screen with wet fingers for extended periods, as this can cause the touch sensors to behave unpredictably.

Is the S25 Ultra safe to use in the shower?

No. Shower water is pressurized and warm, both of which can damage the seals. Even though the phone is rated IP68, the rating assumes still water, not spray. Keep the phone outside the shower.

What happens if I accidentally drop the S25 Ultra in the ocean?

Retrieve it as quickly as possible and rinse it with fresh water when ready. Salt water corrodes internal components over time. Dry the phone thoroughly and monitor it for the next few days. If it continues to work normally, the salt water exposure likely caused no permanent damage, but corrosion may develop later.

Does the S25 Ultra waterproof rating change after I drop it?

Yes. Any drop that cracks the screen or damages the frame can compromise the seals. If you have dropped the phone, assume the water-resistance is reduced. Treat it as if it has no water protection until Samsung inspects it.

Can I use the S25 Ultra in a swimming pool?

You can briefly submerge it in a swimming pool, but chlorine will corrode the internal components over time. Rinse the phone with fresh water when ready after pool exposure and dry it completely. Avoid repeated or prolonged exposure to chlorinated water.