Apple has issued a warning against using rice to dry wet iPhones, stating that it could potentially damage the device. Despite the popularity of this technique, experts have long advised against it, as tests have shown that it is ineffective. Now, Apple itself has published guidance, urging users to tap out any liquid and leave the phone to dry instead.
The tech giant also advises against using external heat sources or compressed air, such as radiators or hairdryers, as well as inserting foreign objects like cotton swabs or paper towels into the phone. Instead, Apple recommends leaving the phone in a dry area with some airflow before reconnecting it to a charger.
MacWorld, the website that first discovered the new support document, points out that future smartphone designs may render this advice unnecessary. Modern devices, such as all Apple devices from the iPhone 12 onwards, are increasingly capable of withstanding water immersion up to a depth of six meters for up to 30 minutes.
However, with the growing popularity of the global second-hand mobile market driven by cost of living pressures, many people will still require guidance on how to handle wet smartphones for the foreseeable future.
It is important to note that drying wet iPhones in rice has been a popular method among users for years. The idea behind it is that the rice will absorb moisture from the device, helping to dry it out. However, experts have consistently warned against this practice, stating that it is ineffective and can potentially cause more harm than good.
Tests have shown that rice does not have the ability to absorb moisture from electronic devices effectively. In fact, it can introduce small particles into the device, leading to further damage. Rice grains can get lodged in charging ports or other openings, causing connectivity issues or even short circuits.
Apple’s guidance aligns with the advice given by experts in the field. Instead of relying on rice or other ineffective methods, users are encouraged to gently tap out any liquid from the device and then leave it to dry in a dry area with some airflow. This allows the natural evaporation process to take place without introducing foreign particles into the device.
The increasing sophistication of smartphones, including their ability to withstand water immersion, may make these drying techniques obsolete in the future. However, for now, it is essential for users to follow Apple’s advice to prevent further damage to their wet iPhones.
In conclusion, Apple has advised against using rice to dry wet iPhones, citing potential damage caused by small particles of the grain. Instead, users are encouraged to tap out any liquid and leave the phone to dry in a dry area with some airflow. While future smartphone designs may make such advice unnecessary, it remains crucial for users to handle wet smartphones properly to avoid further damage.
