Even water-resistant models (IP68) like the iPhone 11 and newer lose their seals' effectiveness over time due to wear. If your smartphone falls into the water, every minute counts.

Emergency Actions

Many users make fatal mistakes by trying to check the device's functionality immediately after retrieving it from the liquid.
  1. Turn it off: Immediately power down the device to prevent the motherboard from short-circuiting.
  2. Remove the case: Take out the SIM card tray to allow air to circulate inside.
  3. Wipe dry: Use a lint-free cloth (microfiber).
⚠️ Never dry the phone's speaker or charging port with a hair dryer! Hot air will melt the internal adhesive and push moisture deeper under the screen.

The Rice Myth

The popular advice to "put the phone in rice" has proven ineffective. Rice dust and starch get into the Lightning/Type-C port, cementing together with the remaining moisture.
ℹ️ Expert Advice

Official Apple Support documentation recommends simply leaving the phone in a dry, well-ventilated area for at least 24 hours. Tap the phone gently against your hand with the connector facing down to remove excess liquid.

Recommended Reading

To understand the electronic oxidation processes better: * *Apple Support Portal* — Water and dust resistance guidelines. * *iFixit Teardowns* — Manuals on smartphone internal layouts.
❓ Can I charge the phone if it shows a liquid detection alert?

Absolutely not. Wait until the warning disappears completely, otherwise, the port contacts will burn out due to electrolysis.