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Apple’s iPhone Duo Gets IP68, Warns Protection Will Wane

Manufacturers are listing factory-tested IP protection on foldables that they say can decline over time.

Overview

  • Apple published the iPhone Duo product listing on Wednesday showing an IP68 dust and water rating and a footnote that the protection is not permanent.
  • Apple says the rating was tested to IEC 60529 standards at up to 6 meters for 30 minutes and that resistance can decrease with normal wear.
  • Google and Honor use similar factory-tested IP68 disclaimers for their foldables while Samsung’s current Galaxy foldables carry a lower IP48 rating.
  • Foldable designs use hinges and moving joints that can break or shift seals over time and device repair or disassembly can further reduce water and dust resistance.
  • The disclosures matter for buyers and repairs because a factory IP rating does not guarantee long-term waterproofing and teardowns and real-world tests will show how well these phones hold up.