Accidentally Dropped Your iPhone 7 in Water? Here's What to Do
It happens. You're walking, talking, or texting, and suddenly, your iPhone 7 slips from your grasp and takes a plunge into water. Whether it's a toilet, a sink, or a pool, the first thought that crosses your mind is, "Is my iPhone 7 waterproof?" The short answer is, it's not. While the iPhone 7 is designed to be water-resistant, it's not waterproof. Here's what you need to know and do when you drop your iPhone 7 in water.
Understanding iPhone 7's Water Resistance
The iPhone 7 has an IP67 rating, which means it's protected against dust and can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for up to 30 minutes. However, this doesn't mean your iPhone 7 is completely waterproof. The water resistance can degrade over time due to wear and tear, or if the phone is dropped from a significant height, which could damage the seals.
What to Do Immediately After Dropping Your iPhone 7 in Water
- Do not turn it on or charge it. Turning on your iPhone 7 or charging it while it's wet could cause a short circuit, damaging the phone further.
- Remove the case. If your iPhone 7 has a case, remove it to allow the phone to dry more effectively.
- Turn it off. If it's not already off, turn off your iPhone 7 to prevent any electrical current from flowing through the phone.
- Remove any accessories. Take out the SIM card and any other accessories like a microSD card if your phone has one.
Drying Out Your iPhone 7
Now that you've taken the initial steps, it's time to dry out your iPhone 7. Here are some methods you can try:

Rice Method
Fill a bowl with uncooked rice, place your iPhone 7 in it, and cover it with more rice. Leave it like this for at least 24 hours. The rice will absorb the moisture. However, this method isn't foolproof and may not work if your iPhone 7 was submerged for a long time.
Silica Gel Packets
If you have silica gel packets (often found in new shoe boxes or electronics packaging), place your iPhone 7 in a sealed bag with a few of these packets. Leave it for at least 24 hours. The silica gel will absorb the moisture more effectively than rice.
Professional Help
If your iPhone 7 was submerged for a long time or you're not comfortable trying to dry it yourself, consider taking it to a professional repair service. They have specialized equipment to dry out and repair water-damaged phones.

Preventing Water Damage in the Future
While you can't prevent every accident, you can take steps to protect your iPhone 7 from water damage:
- Use a waterproof case. A waterproof case can provide an extra layer of protection against water damage.
- Avoid using your phone near water. It might seem obvious, but avoiding water altogether can prevent many accidents.
- Be careful when using your phone in the rain. While the iPhone 7 can withstand a bit of rain, heavy downpours or submersion can still cause damage.
In the end, accidents happen. But with the right knowledge and quick action, you can increase the chances of saving your iPhone 7 from water damage. So, the next time you drop your iPhone 7 in water, don't panic. Follow the steps outlined above, and you'll be back to using your phone in no time.