IP69 is coming to this Android flagship: Is it just a marketing gimmick, or a game-changer?

Why are we talking about IP69?

As smartphones continue to evolve, durability and protection have become key selling points, especially in a market where devices are increasingly expensive and essential to daily life. Terms like IP68 and IP67 are commonly seen in product specifications, denoting how resistant a device is to water and dust. Recently, however, a new level of certification—IP69—has entered the conversation.

Manufacturers are starting to promote this higher standard of protection as an indicator of more rugged and durable devices. A prime example of that is the upcoming OnePlus 13, which has been rumored to come with an IP69 certification.

But what exactly does IP69 mean? How does it compare to the previous standards? And does it make a significant difference for the everyday user?

What does IP certification mean?

IP (Ingress Protection) certification is an internationally recognized standard that measures how well a device is protected against the intrusion of solids (like dust) and liquids (like water). The IP code consists of two numbers: the first digit indicates the level of protection against solid particles, and the second digit refers to liquid resistance. For example, an IP68-rated phone is almost fully dust-tight (6) and can be submerged in water for extended periods without damage (8).

Each number in the IP code corresponds to specific testing conditions. Higher numbers mean better protection, with 6 typically signifying the highest level of dust resistance and 8 being a measure of immersion in water beyond a meter.

A brief history of IP certification

The concept of IP ratings originated as a way for manufacturers to quantify and standardize the protective capabilities of electronic devices, particularly for industrial equipment. Over time, as electronics became more portable, durable IP ratings became essential for consumer goods like smartphones, smartwatches, and even wireless earbuds. Initially, smartphones with IP67 were considered top-tier for durability.

Then, as technology progressed, IP68 became the industry gold standard with the first phone to boast with this certification being the Galaxy S7, back in 2016. And for context, the first iPhone to feature an IP68 certification was the iPhone XS series in 2018, two years later

With IP68 being sufficient for most consumer needs, IP69 was originally designed for more extreme scenarios, such as heavy machinery or industrial tools that encounter high-pressure water or steam.