Apple will announce the iPhone 7 Wednesday, and the 2016 iOS flagship is expected to have several new features, including one that may rival Samsung’s latest smartphones. Rumors suggest the iPhone 7 may include an IPX7 certification , which would allow it to be submerged in up to one meter for up to 30 minutes.
While the feature is not yet confirmed, there are many clues it will in fact be announced. Here’s a rundown of indicators that water resistance is coming to the iPhone 7.
The Apple Watch Is Water Resistant
The fact that the Apple Watch has an IPX7 water resistance rating could be a precursor to the feature on the iPhone 7. The rating indicates, though the second number, that a device is resistant to liquid, but is inconclusive regarding the level of resistance it has against solid particles like dust.
Apple has said the Apple Watch is resistant to contact with liquid, such as rain, sweat from exercising, or splashes from hand washing, but does not recommend users submerge the wearable in water. It is likely Apple would have similar instructions for the iPhone 7 if it is water resistant.
Analysts Predict A Water Resistant iPhone 7
Ming-Chi Kuo, an analyst from the Korean research firm KGI Securities, predicted that the iPhone 7 will have the same water resistance rating as the Apple Watch. Kuo is known for sharing accurate predictions pertaining to upcoming iPhones.
Rumors Suggest Water Resistant Materials
Rumors suggest the iPhone 7 will be made of a “ liquidmetal” material , for which Apple received a patent in 2010.The material is an aluminum alloy, which is more sturdy and water resistant than traditional aluminum, according to The Daily Mirror . Industrial designer Herman Haidin made a created a concept image for the iPhone 7, which includes hints at liquidmetal material and water resistance for the iPhone 7.
Haidin’s concept suggests may give credibility to rumors the iPhone 7 antenna strips may be moved from its back panel to the top and back of the device, so the back panel can be a solid piece and provide better water resistance.
Press Invite May Tease Water
The press invite to Apple’s Sept. 7 launch event features a scene shot with a out-of-focus, bokeh effect, which many suggest means a corresponding camera features for the iPhone 7. Some have also suggested the image may be of blurred out water droplets , which could be a hint of water resistance for the iPhone 7.
iPhone 6s Is Somewhat Water Resistant
Though the iPhone 6s has no official water resistance rating, tech enthusiasts have tested the smartphone and discovered that it can survive several minutes of being submerged in a shallow container of water. This may be enough to users to grab a fallen handset out of a toilet; however, tests have shown the iPhone 6s does not fare fare well in deeper pools of water. Even with an IPX7 rating, the iPhone 7 only be secure in water up to three feet in depth.