The Samsung Galaxy S25 has an IP68 rating, which means it can survive submersion in fresh water up to 1.5 meters deep for up to 30 minutes
The Samsung Galaxy S25 is water-resistant, not waterproof. This distinction matters. Water-resistant means the phone can handle splashes, brief dunks, and rain without damage. Waterproof would mean it works perfectly at any depth forever. The IP68 rating tells you exactly what the phone can survive: immersion in fresh water at depths up to 1.5 meters (about 5 feet) for a maximum of 30 minutes.
This rating applies to the standard Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra. All three phones share the same water-resistance specification. The rating does not cover salt water, chlorinated pools, or hot water from showers or hot tubs—these can damage the phone even though it meets the IP68 standard for fresh water.
Key Takeaways
- The Samsung Galaxy S25 can survive submersion in fresh water up to 1.5 meters deep for 30 minutes, but this is not the same as being waterproof.
- Salt water, chlorine, and hot water can damage the phone even though it has an IP68 rating, so rinse it with fresh water when ready if it contacts these liquids.
- The phone's water resistance degrades over time and with physical damage, so a cracked screen or loose port cover reduces protection.
- Intentionally submerging the phone repeatedly or using it underwater for photography voids the water-resistance may provide in most cases.
What the IP68 Rating Actually Means
IP68 is a two-part code. The first number (6) rates dust protection—a 6 means the phone is dust-tight. The second number (8) rates water protection—an 8 means the phone can survive immersion beyond 1 meter, and Samsung specifies 1.5 meters for 30 minutes as the limit.
This rating comes from testing in controlled conditions: still, fresh water at room temperature. The phone sits in a tank at that depth for that duration. It does not mean the phone works underwater, takes photos underwater, or survives being dropped into a pool during a cannonball contest. It means if you accidentally drop it in a bathtub or get caught in heavy rain, the phone will likely survive.
Water Damage That the Rating Does Not Cover
Salt water corrodes the internal components faster than fresh water does. If you drop your S25 in the ocean, rinse it when ready with fresh water and dry it thoroughly. Do not assume the IP68 rating protects it—it does not. Chlorinated pool water has the same problem: chlorine is corrosive and can eat through the seals over time.
Hot water from showers, hot tubs, or saunas can also damage the phone. Heat weakens the adhesives that hold the seals in place. If you use the phone in a steamy bathroom, keep it away from direct spray and do not submerge it. Soap and shampoo can also degrade the seals, so rinse the phone with fresh water if it contacts these products.
How Physical Damage Reduces Water Resistance
The IP68 rating assumes the phone is in good condition. A cracked screen, a loose charging port cover, or a dent in the frame all compromise the seals. Water can seep through these openings and damage the battery, circuits, and camera sensors inside.
If your S25 has visible damage, treat it as less water-resistant than the rating suggests. Avoid submerging it, and be extra careful around water. If the charging port cover is loose or missing, do not use the phone near water at all—water can enter through the port and short the battery. Have the phone repaired before exposing it to water again.
What Happens If Water Gets Inside
If your S25 gets wet and stops working, the damage is usually not when ready. Water inside the phone can cause corrosion over hours or days. The battery may swell, the screen may flicker, or the phone may shut down unexpectedly. Sometimes the phone works fine for weeks and then fails suddenly.
If water enters the phone, power it off when ready and do not try to charge it. Do not press buttons or open ports. Let it dry in a warm, dry place for at least 48 hours. Rice or silica gel can help absorb moisture, though air drying alone often works. If the phone does not power on after drying, or if it powers on but the screen is discolored or unresponsive, water damage has likely occurred and the phone will need professional repair or replacement.
Using the S25 Around Water Safely
The IP68 rating means you can use the phone in light rain, near a sink, or at the beach without panic. You do not need to wrap it in plastic or avoid water entirely. But intentional, repeated submersion—like using it as an underwater camera or playing with it in a pool—will eventually degrade the seals and void the water-resistance may provide.
If you want to use the S25 underwater for photos or video, use a waterproof case rated for the depth you plan to reach. These cases provide a second layer of protection and are designed for extended water exposure. Without a case, keep underwater use brief and shallow, and rinse the phone with fresh water afterward.
Warranty and Water Damage Claims
Samsung's standard warranty does not cover water damage in most regions. If water enters your S25 and causes a failure, Samsung will likely classify it as accidental damage and charge you for repair or replacement. Some phone insurance plans cover water damage, but you will usually pay a deductible.
The water-resistance rating is a feature, not a promise that water damage will never happen. It tells you the phone can survive normal use around water. Intentional submersion, exposure to salt water or chlorine, or use in hot water may not be covered, even if the phone has an IP68 rating. Check your warranty documents or contact Samsung directly if you are unsure what is covered in your region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Samsung S25 in the shower?
Yes, brief exposure to shower spray is fine. The IP68 rating covers splashing and brief water contact. However, avoid direct spray on the charging port or speaker openings, and do not submerge the phone. Hot water and steam can weaken seals over time, so keep showers short and rinse the phone with fresh water if soap contacts it.
Is the Samsung S25 safe to use in a swimming pool?
The IP68 rating covers fresh water, but chlorine can corrode internal components. Occasional brief exposure is usually fine, but repeated or extended pool use will degrade the seals. If the phone goes in the pool, rinse it with fresh water when ready and dry it thoroughly. For frequent pool use, a waterproof case is safer.
What should I do if my S25 gets wet?
Power off the phone when ready and do not charge it. Dry it with a soft cloth and let it air-dry in a warm, dry place for at least 48 hours. Do not use a hair dryer or place it in an oven—heat can damage components. If the phone does not power on after drying, or if the screen shows discoloration, water damage has likely occurred and professional repair is needed.
Does the water-resistance rating cover salt water?
No. The IP68 rating is tested in fresh water only. Salt water is corrosive and can damage the phone even though it meets the rating. If your S25 contacts salt water, rinse it when ready with fresh water and dry it thoroughly. Do not rely on the IP68 rating to protect it in ocean water.
Will Samsung replace my S25 if water damages it?
Most likely not under the standard warranty. Water damage is usually classified as accidental damage and is not covered. Some regions or insurance plans may cover it, but you will typically pay a deductible or repair fee. Check your warranty documents or contact Samsung in your region to confirm what is covered.