What does IPX8-rated water resistance mean for my Galaxy Z Fold3 or Galaxy Z Flip3?

Last Update date : Oct 28. 2021

Here are some tips on how to keep your Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3 devices in their best condition possible: 

They are the world's first water-resistant foldable smartphones. An IPX8 rating means you can unfold the phones freely, even when caught in the rain. However, it doesn't mean that they are dust-resistant.

Follow these important tips outlined below, so your foldable device will continue looking and performing great.

Note:

  • IP(International protection or Ingress protection) rating is a protection identification code related to solids and liquids that have been designated by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC 60529) to show an electric device’s durability against foreign impact and foreign substance influx. The first digit represents the dust resistance rating (0~6) while the second digit represents the water resistance rating (0~8)- Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3 are both rated as IPX8. IPX8 is based on testing conditions where the device is submerged in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. These devices are not advised for beach or pool use, and they are not dust-resistant.

Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3 devices both support IPX8 water resistance. The devices have been tested in controlled settings and have been proven to be water resistant in certain situations. (International standard IEC 60529, IPX8 product, test conditions: 15-35 ℃, 86-106 kPa, fresh water, up to 1.5 m, up to 30 minutes).

For proper water resistance, please be aware of the following instructions. Failure to heed the instructions below may affect your device's performance and appearance.

The Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3 are water resistant and can withstand the rain if left in outdoor situations for a while, such as camping.

When dirty or smeared, you may clean your device with fresh water.

As your device is water resistant, it can withstand spills of fresh water from the kitchen or under other ordinary circumstances.

When the microphone or speaker is wet, It is not recommended use it as audio sound may be muffled and affecting the clarity during a call. Wait until device is completely dry before use.

If the icon shown in the image is displayed when charging, we recommend disconnecting your device from the charger as there is moisture in the charging port. Wait until device is completely dry before use.

If the device is dropped or damaged, the water-resistant features of the device may be damaged.

Note:

  • IPX8-rated water resistance is only guaranteed when your device is free of any damage. If your device is exposed to the rain for an extended period of time or becomes submerged due to heavy rain, IPX8-rated water resistance is no longer guaranteed.
  • If you accidentally submerge your device in unclean water (e.g., salt water, ion water, alcohol-infused liquids, etc.), please be aware that your device may no longer be guaranteed IPX8-rated water resistance.
  • The Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3 devices may not charge properly if the USB port is wet from humidity, moisture, or water. If so, your device may display a caution notification text with the water recognition icon on both the notification panel and the AOD screen to notify you of the risk of short circuits and damage to the device. 
  • In such situations, use a soft cloth to dry the device thoroughly and keep it in a well-ventilated area for a certain period of time before use.
  • Additionally, for faster drying, it is recommended that you hold the device with the speaker facing down and gently shake it a few times.

Has your device been immersed in water?

The Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3 are water-resistant (IPX8), but they are not dust-resistant. Exposure to small particles or any liquid other than fresh water may cause scratches, dents, and other types of damage to the screen and the device. Therefore it is recommended to refrain from using the device in environments where foreign substances such as dust, water, and moisture are to be expected.

We advise using precautionary measures to prevent an influx of substances other than fresh water.

Do not drop the phone in salt water. If you do so, when it dries, salt may accumulate and block the primary microphone, earpiece, or external speaker.

When using your device on the beach, near a construction site, or in other situations where it can easily be exposed to foreign substances, please be aware that any penetration of foreign substances may damage your device.

Samsung Authorized Smartphone Accessories

Follow the steps below according to the different situations of water penetration. After following these steps, make sure the device is completely dry before use. If the device is still not working even after the device has been completely dried, it is recommended to have the device inspected and repaired through the authorized service center.

What to do when your device is exposed to fresh water

Swipe or click to see each step

What to do when your device is exposed to liquids other than fresh water

If your device has been exposed to liquids other than fresh water (e.g., salt water, chlorinated pool water, soapy water, oil, perfume, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, cosmetics, etc.), please follow the steps below. Swipe or click to see each step.

Note:

  • Avoid drying your device with a hair dryer as it may cause additional damage due to the heat.
  • If you spill a drink/alcoholic drink/coffee on your device, simply clean it with fresh water. However, spilling hot or sticky liquids on your device may cause additional damage.
  • IPX8 water resistance is supported on your device, which means your device will function properly even after being submerged in fresh water for up to 30 minutes under specific conditions (15~35 ℃, 86-106 kPa, up to 1.5m depth).
  • Water resistance is only guaranteed under the IPX8-rated water resistance conditions. If your device becomes sullied, wash with a clean cloth before use. If further issues arise, it is recommended that you visit an authorized service center for assistance.
  • At our service centers, we use our testing tools to check if the water resistance function is working under the IPX8 conditions. If it is properly working, we diagnose that the problem occurred because the user was using the device under conditions that exceeded the IPX8 rating. On the contrary, if it is found that your device’s water resistance function is not working properly, you are subject to free repairs within the warranty period.
  • Please be aware that the water resistance function of your device may be limited when exposed to water below 15℃, above 35℃, or under other situations not guaranteed by Samsung.
  • Any repaired devices are tested again against the standards of a new device's water and dust resistance values by applying the same test algorithm at all our Samsung service centers. This process guarantees that the repaired device performs identically to a new one.

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