In a surprising turn of events, Apple has issued a stern warning against a widely practiced method of drying out wet iPhones. The tech giant has officially debunked the age-old trick of using rice to absorb moisture from water-damaged devices, urging users to steer clear of this method.
Apple’s recent update on its support site has sent shockwaves through the smartphone community. For years, the practice of placing a wet iPhone in a bag or bowl of rice has been considered a quick fix for water damage. However, Apple’s latest advisory highlights the potential risks associated with this approach.
Tech experts have long dismissed the efficacy of the rice-drying method, citing concerns over the possibility of rice particles causing further damage to internal components. Now, with Apple officially cautioning against it, users are urged to reconsider their approach to dealing with water-damaged iPhones.
Apple’s Warning
According to Apple’s updated support site, the use of rice to dry out wet iPhones can lead to detrimental effects on the device. The presence of small rice particles may infiltrate the internal mechanisms, posing a threat to the overall functionality of the iPhone.
This warning comes as Apple introduces a new liquid detection feature, designed to alert users when their iPhones have been exposed to moisture. With this innovative feature, users are empowered to take proactive measures to mitigate the risk of further damage to their devices.
Apple warns against putting your wet iPhone in a bag of rice as it can damage your iPhone
Instead, Apple recommends tapping your iPhone gently against your hand to remove excess liquid (with connector facing down) and leaving it in a dry area with some airflow pic.twitter.com/1i8KjfDKvR
— Apple Hub (@theapplehub) February 19, 2024
Practical Solutions
So, what should iPhone users do if their device gets wet? Apple offers some practical solutions to address this common issue. First and foremost, users are advised not to plug any cables into the device until both the iPhone and the cables are completely dry.
To dry out the iPhone, users can gently tap the device against their hand with the connector facing downwards to remove excess liquid. Subsequently, the iPhone should be placed in a dry area with adequate airflow for at least 30 minutes.
Honor X9b vs Redmi Note 13 Pro: Smartphone Comparison (2024)
Patience is Key
If the liquid detection alert persists after this initial drying period, users are encouraged to refrain from attempting to charge the device or connect any accessories. Instead, the iPhone should be left in a dry environment with sufficient airflow for up to a day to ensure thorough drying.
Apple emphasizes the importance of patience in this process, stating that it may take up to 24 hours for the device to fully dry out. During this time, users are advised against using external heat sources or compressed air to expedite the drying process.
What Not to Do
In addition to providing guidance on what to do when an iPhone gets wet, Apple also outlines what users should avoid. Inserting foreign objects such as cotton swabs or paper towels into the connector is strongly discouraged, as this could potentially cause further damage to the device.
Furthermore, Apple reiterates the importance of avoiding the use of rice as a drying agent, as this method may exacerbate the problem rather than resolve it. By heeding these precautions, iPhone users can effectively address water damage issues without inadvertently causing harm to their devices
