When did Samsung phones become waterproof? They became officially water-resistant with the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge in 2016, which are the first standard Galaxy S models documented with an IP68 rating on Samsung's support pages. It is important to note that Samsung describes this protection as water resistance, not waterproofing, and the exact depth and time limits vary by model.
When did Samsung phones become waterproof?
Samsung does not describe its phones as waterproof; its support pages document water resistance starting with the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge at IP68. The direct answer to when Samsung phones became water-resistant is 2016, with the release of the Galaxy S7 series.
The first water-resistant Samsung Galaxy phones
The Galaxy S4 Active (2013) was Samsung's first attempt at a water-resistant smartphone, with an IP67 rating. The Galaxy S7, S7 edge, and S7 Active are the first IP68-rated models per Samsung support pages. Some regional Samsung pages also list the earlier Galaxy S6 Active under IP68, but the broader Galaxy S-series listings on current pages begin with the S7 era for the standard S line.
Samsung Galaxy S series water resistance timeline
The Galaxy S5 (2014) had an IP67 rating, able to withstand submersion in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes. Samsung’s current support documentation shows the IP68 lineage continuing through Galaxy S8, S9, S10, S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, S25, and S26 series. This means every flagship Galaxy S model from 2016 onward has maintained the same IP68 rating.
Galaxy Note series water resistance
Samsung lists IP68 for Note models such as Note8, Note9, Note10, and Note20 on current regional support pages. The Note series adopted water resistance one generation after the S series, starting with the Note8 in 2017.
Water resistance in Samsung foldables and A series
The Galaxy XCover Pro is a rugged phone with IP68 rating and military-grade durability, featuring a removable back cover for battery access. Samsung’s support pages also list some foldables with water resistance, but the rating is not the same as the slab Galaxy S phones: some pages list IPX8 or IP68 for later Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip models depending on region. Samsung also documents IP68 for some Galaxy A models in certain regions, including A5 2017, A7 2017, and A8 2018.
What Samsung water resistance actually means
The Galaxy S21 Ultra can be submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes. Samsung’s support pages describe the protection as dust and water resistance, not full waterproofing. The exact depth and time limits vary by model and should be checked per model on Samsung’s support pages. If your phone does get wet, Samsung offers guidance on water damage and liquid removal through its official support channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Samsung phones first had water resistance?
The Galaxy S7 and S7 edge are the first standard Galaxy S models Samsung lists with IP68 on the support pages retrieved here. The Galaxy S7 Active also carries the same rating on some regional pages.
Do all Samsung phones have water resistance?
No. Samsung does not include water resistance on every model. Only specific flagship S series, Note series, selected foldables, and a handful of A series models in certain regions carry an IP rating.
What is the difference between water-resistant and waterproof?
Water-resistant means a device can withstand some exposure to water, such as rain or accidental spills, within tested limits. Waterproof implies complete protection against water ingress under any conditions, which Samsung does not claim for any of its phones.
Can I take my water-resistant Samsung phone swimming?
Samsung advises against extended or deep water submersion, even for IP68-rated phones. The rating is tested in controlled conditions with fresh water, and exposure to salt water, chlorinated water, or high-pressure water can still cause damage.
Can I use my Samsung phone underwater to take photos?
Samsung advises against using your phone underwater to take photos, as the touchscreen may not function properly when submerged and water pressure can exceed the tested limits of the IP rating.
Does water resistance affect the performance of the phone?
Water resistance features are designed to protect the internal components and do not impact processing power, battery life, or other functionality. However, water resistance does not make the phone impervious to damage, and caution should still be exercised near water.
