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

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is water-resistant, not waterproof. That distinction matters. IP68 is the rating that tells you what will and won't damage the phone. It means the device passed tests for dust (the "6" part) and water submersion (the "8" part). The "8" specifically means Samsung tested it by submerging the phone in fresh water at a depth of 1.5 meters (about 5 feet) for up to 30 minutes without water entering the device.

This is a real protection layer. You can use the S25 Ultra in the rain, wash your hands while holding it, or accidentally drop it in a pool and retrieve it quickly without permanent damage. But it is not a may provide against all water exposure, and the rating comes with real limits you should know.

Key Takeaways

  • IP68 means the S25 Ultra survived submersion testing in fresh water at 1.5 meters deep for 30 minutes, but this is not the same as being waterproof.
  • Salt water, chlorinated water, and hot water (like shower steam) are not covered by the IP68 rating and can damage the phone over time.
  • The water resistance can degrade if the phone has cracks, loose ports, or has been dropped hard, even if it passed the original test.
  • Samsung's warranty does not cover water damage, so accidental submersion is a financial risk even with the IP68 rating.

What IP68 actually covers and what it does not

The IP68 test uses fresh water in a controlled lab setting. That means tap water or pool water at room temperature. Real-world water is often different. Salt water corrodes the internal components faster than fresh water does. Chlorinated pool water can degrade seals over time. Hot water from a shower or steam from a bathroom sink can force water past the seals more easily than cold water.

The rating also assumes the phone is intact. If the screen is cracked, the back panel is loose, or the charging port has been damaged, water can enter through those gaps even though the phone technically still has an IP68 rating. Samsung does not re-test the phone after damage, so the rating is only valid for an undamaged device.

How water resistance degrades over time

The S25 Ultra uses rubber seals around the ports and edges to keep water out. These seals wear down with normal use—opening and closing the SIM tray, plugging in the charger, and exposure to dust all contribute to seal degradation. After a year or two of regular use, the seals may not perform as well as they did when the phone was new, even though the phone still carries the IP68 label.

Drops and impacts can also damage the seals without cracking the screen. If you drop the phone hard on a corner, the impact can shift internal components or compress the seals unevenly, creating tiny gaps where water can seep in. You may not see visible damage, but the water resistance is compromised.

What to do if your S25 Ultra gets wet

If the phone is submerged briefly or exposed to rain, dry it off with a soft cloth and let it air dry for a few hours before using it normally. Do not use heat to dry it—a hair dryer or oven will damage the internal components faster than water will.

If the phone was submerged for longer than 30 minutes, or if water entered through a damaged port or crack, power it off when ready and do not charge it. Leave it in a dry place for at least 24 to 48 hours. If the phone will not power on after drying, or if you see condensation under the screen that does not clear, contact Samsung support. Water damage is not covered by the standard warranty, but Samsung may offer a repair estimate.

Why the warranty does not cover water damage

Samsung's standard one-year warranty covers manufacturing defects and hardware failures, but not accidental damage from water exposure. Even though the S25 Ultra has an IP68 rating, Samsung treats water damage as user-caused damage, not a defect in the phone itself. This means if your phone gets wet and stops working, you will pay out of pocket for repair or replacement.

Some phone insurance plans and credit card purchase protections do cover accidental water damage, so check your policy before assuming you have no recourse. But the IP68 rating alone does not may provide a free repair if something goes wrong.

Comparing the S25 Ultra to other water-resistant phones

Most flagship Android phones and iPhones released in the last few years carry an IP67 or IP68 rating. IP67 means the phone can survive submersion in fresh water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes—slightly less protection than IP68. In practice, the difference is small. Both ratings are designed for accidental water exposure, not intentional underwater use.

Some phones marketed as "rugged" or "outdoor" phones carry higher ratings like IP69K, which means they can withstand high-pressure water jets. But the S25 Ultra is not in that category. It is a mainstream flagship phone with solid water resistance for everyday use, not a device built to survive extreme conditions.

Best practices for protecting your S25 Ultra from water damage

Keep the charging port and SIM tray closed when not in use. If you use the phone near water—at the beach, by a pool, or while hiking near streams—consider a waterproof case for extra protection. These cases add bulk but provide a second barrier if the phone is dropped or submerged unexpectedly.

Avoid using the phone in the shower or sauna, even though the IP68 rating might suggest it is safe. The combination of heat and moisture can stress the seals more than a quick dip in cool water. If the phone gets wet, dry it promptly and let it air dry completely before charging.

If you drop the phone hard or notice any cracks or loose panels, have it inspected before exposing it to water. A small impact that does not crack the screen can still compromise the seals, and you will not know until water gets inside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the S25 Ultra underwater to take photos?

The IP68 rating means the phone can survive submersion, but it is not designed for underwater photography. The camera lens can fog up from condensation, and the longer the phone stays underwater, the greater the risk of water seeping past the seals. If you want to take photos underwater, use a dedicated waterproof case or an underwater camera instead.

What if water gets inside the charging port?

Do not charge the phone if water is visible in the port. Let it air dry for at least 24 hours in a warm, dry place. You can use a dry cloth to gently wipe the outside of the port, but do not insert anything into it. If the port does not dry completely or if the phone will not charge after drying, contact Samsung support for a repair estimate.

Does the S25 Ultra water resistance work after a year of use?

The seals degrade over time with normal use, so the water resistance is not as strong after a year as it was when the phone was new. The phone should still handle rain and brief water exposure, but the margin for error is smaller. If you regularly expose the phone to water, consider a protective case as the phone ages.

Is salt water covered by the IP68 rating?

No. The IP68 test uses fresh water only. Salt water corrodes the internal components and seals much faster than fresh water does. If you use the phone near the ocean or a salt lake, rinse it with fresh water and dry it thoroughly as soon as possible.