When the first Apple Watch launched in 2015, it was splash and sweat resistant but not designed for use in water. The industry-wide assumption was smartwatches and water don‘t mix well!
But Apple has defied conventions by making each new generation of Apple Watch increasingly capable of handling water exposure.
This was enabled by innovations like:
- Improved sealing using composites around buttons and enclosure gaps
- Waterproof adhesives for display and cover glass bonding
- Hydrophobic coatings on internal circuits
- Pressure testing chambers simulating underwater conditions
Let‘s analyze the water resistance tech for each Apple Watch edition in detail.
Apple Watch Series 1 & Series 2
The first Apple Watch was only IPX7 splash resistant, not meant for swimming or diving.
The Apple Watch Series 2 debuted a much improved ISO 22810:201 water resistance rating to 50 meters in 2016.
This allowed recreational swimming and surfing, though still not suitable for high velocity water sports.
Series 3 Onwards : Boosting Water Resistance to 50 Meters
From 2017‘s Series 3 to 2022‘s Series 8, 50 meters of water resistance became the standard for Apple Watch.
The below table summarizes how depth rating has progressed across models:
| Apple Watch Model | Max Depth Rating | Real-World Test |
|---|---|---|
| Series 3 | 50 meters | Swimming in pool or sea up to 50 feet depth |
| Series 4 | 50 meters | Wearing in sauna, hot tub |
| Series 5 | 50 meters | Surfing ocean waves |
| Series 6 | 50 meters | White water rafting |
| Series 7 | 50 meters | Water slides |
While suitable for splashing, brief submersion and high velocity water – the 50 meter mark is not built for sustained pressure at depth.
For example, diving to just 10 meters depth equates to 2X atmospheric pressure. At 30 meters depth that escalates to 4X pressure!
So it‘s about more than just depth rating. Consider duration of submersion too while judging water resistance limits.
Ultra Edition: Pushing Limits to 100 Meters
Launched alongside the Series 8 in 2022, the Apple Watch Ultra took water protection to new levels with a 100 meter rating.
This enables recreational scuba diving up to 40 meters and sustained pressure at depth.
Image source: PCMag
Let‘s break down why that huge leap from 50 meters to 100 meters required intensive re-engineering:
- Custom action button design withstands repeated presses underwater
- Redesigned speaker with asymmetric driver to clear water
- On-device depth gauge alerts diver when approaching rating boundary
- EN13319 certification for diving accessories
Essentially, another milestone showing Apple redefining expectations around wearables capabilities even in extreme environments.
Maintaining Water Resistance Long-Term
While water resistance specifications seem clearly defined, there are additional variables at play.
Ageing watches means gradual weakening of adhesives and seals. Cosmetic damage also makes devices more vulnerable.
Apple recommends getting Apple watches serviced annually:
"Apple Watch was developed with high exposure to water in mind, but normal wear and tear can reduce effectiveness over time. If you observe unexpected behavior, discontinue use until Apple Watch can be examined."
Besides servicing, you can also follow these best practices for long term water resistance:
- Avoid pressing buttons or Digital Crown underwater
- Rinse watch in fresh water after pool or salt water use
- Dry band thoroughly after getting it wet
- Use Apple Watch bands designed for getting wet
Adhering to depth ratings, taking precautions against impact damage, and getting timely service can ensure your Apple Watch keeps resisting water for years.
How does Apple Watch water sealing stack up against competitors?
Smartwatch makers like Garmin and Fitbit also offer a range of water resistant models. Here‘s an overview:
| Specs | Apple Watch Ultra | Garmin Epix 2 | Fitbit Sense 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Depth Rating | 100m | 100m | 50m |
| Pool Swimming | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Open Water Swim | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Water Tracking | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Garmin in particular targets serious athletes with water protection on par with Ultra for adventures like scuba diving.
But Apple still leads in smart features like cellular connectivity, third party apps, contactless payments etc. while matching rugged credentials.
I hope this guide gave you clarity into the meaning behind Apple Watch water resistance claims. While not entirely waterproof, all models from Series 2 onwards offer robust protection.
The Ultra edition even brings capabilities like scuba dive tracking previously uncharted for smartwatches.
But beyond depths and diving, Apple Watch is well equipped for all-day wear even through rain, spills, shower steam and accidental splashes.
Have you used your Apple Watch underwater or on extreme adventures? Share your experience in comments!
