Oh no! Your precious iPhone has taken an unexpected dip in the water. Panic sets in as you frantically search for a solution to save your beloved device. One common piece of advice that you may come across is to put your waterlogged iPhone in a bowl of rice to help it dry out. But hold on a minute, because Apple has some different advice for you.
While it is true that current iPhone models have better water-resistance capabilities compared to their predecessors, they are still susceptible to water damage. The idea of using rice as a drying agent has been widely circulated on the internet, with even reputable sources like BBC Science Focus endorsing it as a viable solution. However, a recent Apple support document discovered by Macworld specifically advises against this method.
According to Apple, the key to saving your wet iPhone lies in patience rather than rice. The first step is to act quickly by unplugging your device (if it’s plugged in), removing it from the water, and powering it down as soon as possible. Next, try to remove as much water as you can by gently drying it with towels and even using a vacuum cleaner.
Instead of reaching for that bag of rice, Apple recommends tapping your iPhone gently against your hand with the connector facing down. This helps to remove any excess liquid from the device. After this step, it is crucial to leave your iPhone in a dry area with some airflow. Give it at least 30 minutes before attempting to charge it with a Lightning or USB-C cable or connecting any accessories.
If you encounter the dreaded “liquid in connector” alert, it means there is still moisture present. In this case, Apple advises leaving your iPhone in a dry area with airflow for up to a day. Throughout this period, you can try charging or connecting accessories periodically. Be patient, as it might take up to 24 hours for your device to fully dry.
But what if your iPhone has dried out and still refuses to charge? Apple suggests unplugging the cable from the adapter and disconnecting the adapter from the wall (if possible). Then, reconnect them again. If this doesn’t solve the issue, it is time to seek assistance from Apple support.
It is important to note that Apple also warns against using external heat sources or compressed air to dry your iPhone. Additionally, inserting foreign objects like cotton swabs or paper towels into the connector can cause further damage.
So, the next time your iPhone takes an unexpected swim, remember to exercise patience rather than reaching for that bag of rice. Follow Apple’s advice and give your device the time it needs to dry out properly. With a little bit of luck and a whole lot of patience, your iPhone may just survive its watery ordeal.