It is not entirely clear what relationship Apple Watch with water. Apple gives very conflicting information, which leads to disputes and erroneous judgments in the comments on our site. The manufacturer said that the Apple Watch is not waterproof, but Tim Cook takes a shower with it, and numerous videos demonstrate that the watch feels great underwater.
Confusion is also introduced by the recently published one, according to which the company advises to rinse the watch under the tap if the digital crown is clogged. Many thought that this would give them a reason to take the Apple Watch to the warranty service after diving, and Mikhail Korolev drew my attention to the fact that on the Apple store page it is not recommended to wash the Apple Watch under water.
So is the Apple Watch waterproof?
No, and Apple has said this repeatedly. Apple Watch is not waterproof, but it is water resistant. Do not confuse these concepts. Splash and water resistance means you can run in the rain with your watch, wash your hands without fear of water getting on your watch, but submerging your Apple Watch in water is not recommended. The Apple Watch's water resistance rating is IPX7. It is also worth noting that leather straps are not water resistant.
But after all, on a huge number of rollers, the watch is immersed under water and it works! Yes, but it is worth considering the point that is described in the manual for the Apple Watch. Moisture resistance is a variable condition that cannot be tested. It is also impossible to return the lost moisture resistance. In other words, by submerging the watch under water, you cannot be sure that it will work.
What is IPX7?
This is an international standard, which technically means that the device can withstand accidental exposure to water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. If the depth or time is exceeded, it may affect the moisture resistance of the device, even if it does not appear immediately. However, this rating does not recommend using the device in the shower due to the water falling under pressure.
But takes a shower in hours!
Maybe he accepts, maybe he doesn't. Tim Cook's words were reported by the highly respected iGen.fr resource, but there is no evidence that Tim Cook actually said this. Apple doesn't officially recommend showering while wearing the watch, the IPX7 rating means the watch isn't designed for it. So why don't you just take off your watch before taking a shower? This is not difficult.
But they even dived into the pool in them?
It is worth going back to the first point. There are waterproof items. If you buy a waterproof watch, you can dive in it all summer and then do it again a year later. The Apple Watch is water resistant, and unlike water resistance, this state is not permanent. You can never be sure that your watch is as water resistant as it was yesterday. Today, the hero of the video successfully swam in the Apple Watch, and they work. This does not mean that they are at the same level of protection and will survive the dive the next day.
And what about bracelets?
Here Apple makes it clear that leather bracelets should not get wet. Probably, excessive sweating during training will also not benefit the leather bracelet. And it seems that this should be clear to those who have ever cared for leather goods. As for the other straps, they should be water friendly.
Can I…?
Can you leave your watch underwater for long periods of time? Can you swim, take a bath or shower in them? Can you keep your watch on before surfing? The answer is no in all cases. If this doesn't sound convincing, I'll remind you that Apple recommends avoiding certain substances on your Apple Watch, and these include soapy water, pool water, and salt water. In the same list, various perfumes, ointments, lotions and more.
And finally…
What else do we need to know if Apple doesn't recommend submerging the Apple Watch and the IPX7 rating says so? Do you want to argue with this? In this case, you run the risk of being left without your Apple Watch. They are of little use if they stop working. Just try to avoid getting water on the watch, as you do with the iPhone. If it gets a little wet in the rain, or you accidentally get it wet while washing your hands, it's okay, but when you go to the shower, you know for sure that the watch will get wet, in which case it should be removed.
According to iDB
Every day, moisture protection becomes just a common feature in any device. If you take top-end devices, then for sure you will find moisture and dust protection in them.
Apple is the leader in smartwatches. The most up-to-date model this moment is the Apple Watch 4. When buying this kind of device, people often wonder about the water permeability of the device.
This is what we will deal with today. Consider what kind of protection this device has and in general, is it possible to swim in the sea in them and then feel calm.
Can I shower or swim in the sea on Apple Watch 4?
To find out the answer to this question, you do not need to spend a lot of time. On the official website, everything is written in detail, you just need to know exactly where to look.
Therefore, we go to the Apple Watch 4 page and scroll to the very bottom, where we find the information we need:
All thanks to the ISO 22810:2010 standard. The only thing Apple warns about is fast types water sports and very deep diving.
To be honest, Apple talks about the water resistance of the Apple Watch 4 in every ad. Here is one of them:
You can train in the pool and swim with smartwatches from Apple, starting with Series 2. Even then, the waterproofness of the gadget suggested the possibility of diving to a depth of 50 meters. However, Apple Watch Series 4 received an improved gyroscope and accelerometer, which means that tracking strokes, distance and other important parameters have become even better.
In today's review, we will try to figure out how good they are for swimming and training in the pool. If anything, everything is checked on their own skin.
Training
Actually, no special preparation is needed. We install a silicone strap on the watch in advance, because nylon, metal and other options, for obvious reasons, are not very suitable for use in water.
In the pool
Before the swim, right on the watch, we select the “Pool” workout and simultaneously set our goal: swim a certain distance, burn a given number of calories, or swim for a while. Of course, you can not choose a goal and swim freely - in this case, the watch will not notify you of the achievement of intermediate and final goals. During training, the device simply collects statistics, and at the end sums up the results.
The first time you start, you will need to set the length of the pool. The standard is an Olympic short course competition bowl 25 meters long. If the exact length is unknown, it will not be superfluous to clarify it with the trainer on duty.
After starting a workout, the watch screen is locked. It responds to a simple touch to light up the screens and nothing more. And to unlock the display, you need to pause classes. To do this, simultaneously press the crown and the physical button next to it. The same combination returns "to the game".
By the way, the watch also responds to gestures. I have no idea how exactly, but as soon as you hold your hand in front of your eyes a little in the water, the screen itself wakes up and displays relevant information. You continue to stroke and the display goes out. The device seems to know that at the moment you want to check the current data.
Count
Although the optical sensor is redesigned, it can still not track the pulse accurately. The system itself warns about this. Accordingly, the calculation of calories occurs in the same mode - approximate.
However, I did not notice any serious deviations from the real values. Perhaps with such a warning, Apple was simply playing it safe from some very private scenarios.
By the way, to check the pulse, you can use the good old manual technique. This is done literally on the fly. We put a finger to the neck, count the beats for 10 seconds on the clock in the pool (one of the indicators of the seriousness of the pool, by the way), multiply by 6 - we get the actual number of beats per minute.
However, heart rate and calories are far from the most important parameters when swimming. Much more important to know the time and distance.
In total, in 23.5 minutes I swam 28 lanes of 25 meters or 700 meters in total. Yes, yes, I myself know that this is not much, but I'm lazy and once again I can't be driven into the pool. Another thing is important here...
At first, I strictly counted all the parameters myself and simultaneously compared them with the data from AW. After about 300-400 meters, I relaxed and gave it all at the mercy of the clock. Fortunately, they monitored my swimming activity very responsibly.
However, in the course of the training itself, I noticed something. The clock counts both the distance and the number of tracks is not entirely accurate. Let's say I swam 25 meters, turned around and did another 25. I stop, look at the screen, and it only displays 43 meters and one pool, not two. After 2-3 seconds, the clock equalizes the indicator to the correct one, and this despite the fact that I have been standing still for 10 seconds already. Perhaps they did this under my angry gaze, or maybe everything was intended that way.
In the process of training, the distance and the number of tracks are not exactly counted. However, according to the results of the swim, all indicators are automatically aligned and become correct. It's always like this.
As a result, there is nothing to blame the watch for, because everything is calculated clearly and without errors. Not a single extra meter was lost or added.
A bonus was the automatic detection of swimming technique. So, the clock absolutely accurately calculated that I swam 600 meters breaststroke and 100 meters freestyle. Otherwise, it is called crawl, if that.
More details!
However, distance, calories, heart rate chart - that's not all. In the Activity app already on iPhone, you can find out much more details.
For example, on average, it took me 16 breaststroke strokes per pool. And I overcame 25 meters in about 40 seconds. In addition, the clock even counted the time of breaks between, so to speak, approaches. Thus, you finally understood that I overcame 700 meters imposingly and in an absolutely lazy manner. I confess. "Thank you" Apple Watch for hiding nothing!
After the pool
After completing a workout, the company strongly recommends that you "blow out" the built-in speaker. To do this, you need to swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen and press the button with a drop. Next, scroll the Digital Crown all the way until the drop on the screen becomes large, and the speaker starts to buzz with a special signal. All this is necessary to push excess moisture out of the speaker hole.
Output
I am definitely not a professional swimmer, therefore, I cannot assess how well they are suitable for serious activities. water sports sports. However, for simple amateur workouts, the AW 4 functionality is more than enough. There are so many parameters that AW 4 takes into account that many of them even seemed redundant to me. Yes, it's really interesting to look at your average time for 25 meters, 50 meters, 100 meters and how many strokes you take to overcome all these distances. However, the most important thing is that the calculation of all these parameters occurs clearly and without errors.
Ultimately, they became my faithful companions in the pool. The only catch is that I myself have not yet become a regular at the pool, I still prefer to train “on land”. However, that's another story.
Water resistance is one of the main criteria when choosing a watch. Many people mistakenly believe that all Apple Watches are waterproof, but this is not true. Shallow diving is limited to Apple Watch Series 4, 3, and 2, while the first generation and Series 1 models are only water and splash resistant.
Waterproof vs Water Resistant: What's the difference?
As you can see, there is a difference between water resistance and water resistance (water resistance). In the case of the Apple Watch Series 1, the device is water resistant, but by no means waterproof. This means you can wear your favorite gadget in any weather, wash your hands and play sports without worrying about sweat droplets damaging your watch. However, diving with them into the water is not recommended.
Can I swim or shower with Apple Watch Series 4, 3, and Series 2?
Apple Watch Series 4, 3, and 2 can be worn while swimming in the pool and swimming in the sea (requires special mode"Water blocking" will be discussed in more detail below), however, for diving and other water sports that involve diving to great depths or exposing water to high speed they don't fit. While showering, this watch can be left on, but contact with shampoo, soap, body and hair care products, and perfumes is undesirable, as they can damage the waterproof partitions and acoustic membranes. If any substance other than water comes into contact with the watch, wipe it with a clean, lint-free cloth lightly dampened with water, and then wipe dry.
Please note that water resistance is not permanent and may change. This depends on a number of factors, including whether your device has been dropped, exposed to cleaning products or cosmetics, acids, acidic foods or hair dyes. In addition, water resistance may decrease if you wear your Apple Watch in a bath or sauna or participate in extreme water sports. Also keep in mind that not all straps are water resistant. For example, leather and steel bracelets are best kept away from water.
Can I swim or shower with Apple Watch Series 1?
No. As mentioned above, the Apple Watch Series 1 is water resistant (water and splash resistant), but not waterproof.
What to do if your Apple Watch gets water?
If your watch gets wet, wipe it dry with a clean, lint-free cloth. Do not put them on the battery or next to other heat sources, dry with a hair dryer or sprayers.
After a workout at the gym, wipe sweat off your watch and band, and clean the wrist where you wear the watch. Apple Watch Series 2 and 3 models can be washed with warm tap water. After cleaning, always dry the device thoroughly with a clean, lint-free cloth.
After water enters the speaker hole, the sound may become muffled, but you should not try to insert something into it to clean it. Shake the gadget is also not necessary. Just leave it charging until the morning to let the moisture evaporate. The same applies to the barometric altimeter, which can become less accurate if water enters the ventilation device.
Apple Watch Series 1
You can check if water has entered the microphone or speaker of your Apple Watch Series 1 as follows. Lay the watch on a lint-free cloth with the speaker facing down and see if any liquid comes out. Until the water evaporates completely, it may interfere with the performance of the speakers and microphone.
Apple Watch Series 4, 3 and 2
Before diving into water with Apple Watch Series 4, 3, and 2, you must activate Water Lockout mode. In this mode, screen taps, buttons, and the Digital Crown will be disabled.
How to Enable Water Lock on Apple Watch: 2 Ways
1. You can activate the Pool workout on your Apple Watch.
In this case, the watch will enter the "Water Lock" mode and automatically lock the screen to prevent accidental taps on it.
2. If you don't want to start exercising, you can turn on the Water Lock function manually. To do this, swipe up on the screen to go to Control Center and tap on the water drop icon.
How to turn off Water Lock on Apple Watch and push water out
When you're done swimming, quickly turn the Digital Crown a few times to unlock the screen and remove water from your Apple Watch.
What else you need to know about Apple Watch contact with liquids
The pool water contains chemical substances, which can damage Apple Watch components. In addition, contact with salt sea water can accelerate the corrosion of the watch, so proper care is required for the device. After your swim session, gently rinse your Apple Watch with clean water.
It should be noted that Apple strongly advises against exposing the smartwatch to soap or soapy water, shampoo, perfume, insect repellent, sunscreen, lotion, or other chemicals that contain chemicals, as these can damage the waterproof baffles and acoustic membranes.
According to yablyk
This is a great assistant that monitors the health of the owner. Due to its specification, the watch can be submerged in water. But each model has its own international water resistance standards, which limit the device's contact with liquid. When using a smart watch, you need to know and apply precautions that will save the device.
How to start a water workout with iWatch?
Swimming is great view sport, which allows you to constantly keep the athlete in good physical form. Apple took care of training in the water and released a waterproof watch. During water procedures, Apple Watch will show the whole picture of the owner's health.
How to set swim training mode on Apple Watch?
- You need to enter the "Training" menu.
- Next, you should select the item "Swimming in the pool" or "Swimming in the open water" (the choice depends on the location of the training).
- After manipulation, the device will automatically switch the watch to the "Water Block" mode.
After completing these steps, the user can safely dive into the water. After the training time is over, you should unlock the watch. This is done as follows: you need to hold down the Digital Crown and the button on the side of the device.
How to turn on Apple Watch Water Lock by yourself?
- You should go to the "Management" menu.
- Next, you need to select the icon in the form of a drop.
- You should click on the icon and select the "Water Block" mode.
This operation should be done before taking a shower, bath, before going outside in the rain.
Cons of using iWatch underwater
- Since the watch is locked, the underwater screen is inactive, although all available symbols are clearly visible. Therefore, you will not be able to use the functions of the device while swimming.
- It is important to remember that water has a high electrical conductivity: if the lock is not turned on before water procedures, the watch may break. It is also important to remove liquid drops after swimming.
How to view the workout report?
After swimming, many users compare their results with previous activities. To follow the improvement process, first you need to unlock the device and in the "Training" menu, click "End".
In the water training mode, the duration of activity and rest is automatically noted. The owner can view the activity report on the iPhone in the Apple Watch app. The watch will show not only the total distance that the user has swum, but also calculate what style the person used during classes. The report will also display the pace at which the athlete did the heats.
How to clean Apple Watch from moisture?
There are impurities in any water (in the sea - salt, trace elements, in the pool - chlorine, in the bath - personal hygiene products) that need to be cleaned Apple Watch. For this you need:
- Touch the bottom of the display, hold your finger a little, then swipe up. The Manage menu opens.
- Here again, you need to touch the "Drops".
- Then you should scroll the Digital Crown several times. This action will unlock the watch and remove excess liquid from speakers.
But before the first use, you must carefully read the instructions for using the watch in water. Before releasing the lock after swimming, make sure that the watch and its movements are dry.
What are the restrictions on using different versions of Apple Watch in water?
- The Apple Watch Series 1 is not designed to be exposed to liquid for extended periods of time. In the manufacture of this series, manufacturers have used the IEC 60529 liquid protection standard and the IPX7 classification. This suggests that prolonged exposure to liquid on the watch will adversely affect the device. You can walk in the rain in them, even take a shower. But at the same time, it is necessary to ensure that the watch does not come into contact with water for more than a few seconds. Do not submerge them in water more than 1 meter.
- Apple Watch 2 , and series are made to a different standard (ISO 22810:2010). The device can be immersed in water for a long time. But there are restrictions on the depth to which an athlete can descend. Apple Watch can dive into a body of water at least 50 meters. In other words, the user will not be able to dive in the watch.
Water resistance of different models of Apple Watch 1
Many users ask the question: Are the Apple Watch, Apple Watch Edition and Apple Watch Sport waterproof? The developers make it clear that 1st generation watches are not waterproof. Although the IEC 60529 IPX7 standard provides for a short stay of the device in water. However, the company warns device owners not to let the watch come into contact with liquid.
According to some reports, Craig Hockenbury (Apple software developer) and Tim Cook ( CEO Apples) at one time took a shower and bathed in the Apple Watch. They assured that the watch works fine after water procedures. It is difficult to judge how true these assurances are.
Therefore, in order to avoid unpleasant incidents, you should not swim in iWatch. To keep your Apple Watch waterproof for a long time, you should follow some simple rules for using and storing the device.
What can not be done on the Apple Watch?
- Drop or subject the watch to mechanical stress.
- Do not allow the watch to come into contact with hygiene products (soaps, shampoos, gels), perfumes, acids, solvents, oil products (gasoline, diesel fuel), dyes.
- Contact with drops of water at high speed (water skiing, rides) is not allowed!
- Avoid exposure to high temperatures (sauna, bath).
- Avoid exposure to low temperatures. Use temperature from 0 to 35 degrees Celsius.
It is important to remember that leather and metal bracelets watches are not waterproof!
How to properly care for your Apple Watch?
- You should regularly clean and wipe the watch from sweat. The human skin needs to be kept dry.
- Before the Water Lock function is activated, the watch may be damaged by contact with liquid.
- After each workout, you should wipe the watch itself and the bracelet with a non-aromatic cloth that absorbs moisture.
- After swimming in open water or in a pool, it is recommended to rinse the device with clean water.
- When caring for or drying the watch, do not use a hair dryer, heater, treat the gadget with chemicals, compressed air or ultrasonic devices.
- It is strictly forbidden to clean the Apple Watch while charging!