Is the Google Pixel 8 Waterproof?

Water and smartphones have never gotten along, but with so many technological advances, phones have seemingly begun to tolerate liquid a little more. The Pixel 8 offers impressive functionality, but its performance relies on resisting water exposure over time. So, is the Pixel 8 actually waterproof?

We’re here to help explain your phone’s water tolerance. Whether you’ve accidentally dropped your phone into water or want to take underwater pictures, you’ll want to know what your phone can withstand. Find out if the Google Pixel 8 is waterproof and ways to protect it from water damage.

Are the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro Waterproof?

Waterproof suggests complete protection from water. Because phones require openings for charging, speakers, etc., no phone is truly waterproof. However, phones with an IP68 rating are as close as you can get to it. This rating indicates that the device can be submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes.

Both the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro have an IP68 rating. In theory, your phone should be protected everywhere from splashes of liquid to full-on drops into water. This resistance, however, is not a feature, but rather a safety measure. Simply because your phone can be submerged under certain conditions doesn’t mean it should. A waterproof phone pouch offers additional protection for extra peace of mind during activities like swimming or kayaking.

A phone’s dust and water resistance decreases over time. Scratches and cracks can allow liquid to enter your phone, and the seals protecting your phone from dust and liquid can begin to degrade. If you repeatedly use your phone underwater or in the shower, those seals can degrade quickly and lead to internal damage.

What Does the Google Pixel 8’s IP68 Rating Mean?

The Google Pixel 8’s IP68 rating refers to its resistance to dust and liquid. The first number in an ingress protection (IP) rating determines the device’s dust resistance, while the second determines its water resistance. A 6 is the highest dust resistance rating available, while an 8 is one level below the highest water resistance rating.

An IP68 rating means the Google Pixel 8 is completely protected from dust and can be submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes. This rating applies to freshwater, so saltwater and chlorinated water can have adverse effects on your phone, even if you stay within the indicated limits.

While IP68 is a near-perfect rating, it only applies to devices in pristine condition. Your phone’s resistance can degrade over time as it takes damage, so it’s not guaranteed to survive up to 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes.

How to Keep Your Google Pixel 8 Protected

1. Don’t push its limits: Think of your Pixel 8’s resistance as a safety net. Simply because you can submerge your phone in 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. Any crack or scratch reduces your phone's resistance and can allow liquid to enter, causing potential damage..

2. Dry thoroughly after water exposure: If your phone has gotten wet, wipe off any excess liquid, pat liquid out of its ports, and let it air dry. If your phone has been submerged, the seals protecting it from water ingress may degrade, leading to reduced resistance.

3. Invest in a good case: Damage to your phone can reduce its dust and water resistance. A reliable Pixel case and screen protector can protect it from cracks and scratches. Invest in added protection to maintain your phone’s effectiveness against liquids.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Pixel 8 Take Pictures Underwater?

With an IP68 rating, the Google Pixel 8 can function in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes. Anything deeper or longer than this may allow liquid to enter your phone. This rating applies to fresh water, meaning saltwater and chlorinated water can cause damage.

Phone Protection Starts With the Right Case

The Google Pixel 8 is not waterproof, but it shares some of the highest water resistance on the market. While it can resist liquids to a great extent, this resistance can diminish as your phone degrades.

Protective equipment is essential to getting the most out of your phone’s IP68 rating. Protect your phone from cracks and scratches with one of our Google Pixel 8 cases. With an added layer of protection, you can extend your phone’s protection from water damage.