Is the Apple Watch Series 3 waterproof? The short answer is no; however, the long answer is more nuanced. While Apple Watches are not completely waterproof, depending on the model, they do offer varying degrees of water resistance. Let’s look at the different generations and their capabilities to better understand which Apple Watches are water-resistant and to what extent.<\/p>
All Apple Watches are water-resistant to varying degrees, but Apple avoids using words like waterproof, which implies invincibility. What they can handle is always limited.<\/p>
The six models can be divided into two groups based on their liquid resistance and Apple’s recommendations and warnings.<\/p>
The first Apple Watch, released in 2015, has an IPX7 water-resistance rating according to IEC standard 60529. We go over IP ratings in more detail below, but in summary, it’s protected against liquid immersion for up to 30 minutes at a depth of 1m.<\/p>
While the first-generation Apple Watch is splash- and water-resistant (Tim Cook reportedly wore his in the shower), Apple does not recommend submerging it completely. If your Apple Watch does get wet, see What to Do If Your Apple Watch Gets Wet.<\/p>
The Apple Watch Series 1 has the same IPX7 water-resistance rating as the original Apple Watch, according to IEC standard 60529. Again, this means it’s resistant to liquid immersion for up to 30 minutes at a depth of 1m.<\/p>
While the Apple Watch Series 2 is splash- and water-resistant, Apple does not recommend completely submerging it. If your Apple Watch Series 1 is completely submerged, continue to the relevant section of What to do if your Apple Watch gets wet.<\/p>
According to ISO standard 22810:2010, the Apple Watch Series 2 has a water resistance rating of 50 meters. In other words, you can swim with it as long as you don’t go too deep.<\/p>
However, there are limitations, and Apple is typically cautious about the specific aquatic behaviours that the Series 2 can survive.<\/p>
The Apple Watch Series 3 has the same water-resistance rating as the Series 2: 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010. Again, shallow-water swimming is permitted, but scuba diving, waterskiing, and other activities involving “high-velocity water or submersion below shallow depth” are prohibited.<\/p>
The Series 4 is water-resistant to 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010, with an official warning to avoid scuba diving, waterskiing, or high-velocity water.<\/p>
Finally, the Series 5 has the same water-resistance rating as the Series 2, 3, and 4: 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010. It is water-resistant rather than waterproof.<\/p>
Cleaning your Apple Watch is essential not only for maintaining product quality but also for avoiding skin irritation. According to Apple, this is how it’s done:<\/p>
The Water Lock feature,\u00a0available on the Apple Watch 2, 3, 4, and 5, locks the screen of an Apple Watch to prevent accidental taps while swimming and other water-based activities. It also cleans out your Watch’s speakers once you’re finished, which is helpful if you plan to submerge your Watch at all.<\/p>
If you have an Apple Watch Ultra, you can wear it while scuba diving up to 130 feet (40 meters) and doing other activities like swimming, showering, and water skiing.<\/p>
Apple Watch Series 2 and later can be used for shallow-water activities like swimming in a pool or ocean. Still, models other than the Apple Watch Ultra should be used for something other than diving, water skiing, or other activities requiring submersion below shallow depth or high-velocity water.<\/p>
Although the Apple Watch Series 1 and Apple Watch (1st generation) are splash and water-resistant, submerging these models is not advised.<\/p>
Not all Apple Watch bands are water resistant. For example, the stainless steel and leather bands are not water-resistant and should not be exposed to liquids.<\/p>
So, whether you’re a fitness fanatic looking to track your laps in the pool or someone who enjoys the occasional beach day, there’s an Apple Watch for you. Just remember to double-check your specific model’s water resistance rating and take the necessary precautions to ensure its longevity.<\/p>
While Apple Watches are not completely waterproof, they\u00a0offer varying degrees of water resistance. The newer models are built to handle your aquatic activities, from surviving splashes and sweat to accompanying you on swimming adventures. So jump in and revel in the freedom.<\/p>
Water resistance is not a permanent state and can deteriorate over time. Water resistance on the Apple Watch cannot be rechecked or resealed. The following things can harm your Apple Watch’s water resistance and should be avoided:<\/p>
While the aforementioned should be avoided, if your Apple Watch comes into contact with soaps, shampoos, conditioners, lotions, perfumes, solvents, detergent, acids or acidic foods, insect repellent, sunscreen, oil, hair dye, or any other substance other than water, it should be cleaned with warm water and dried with a lint-free cloth. Chemicals found in these items may harm water seals and acoustic membranes.<\/p>
Wipe the water off your Apple Watch with a nonabrasive, lint-free cloth. Use of heat, compressed air, or sprays is not permitted. After a workout or heavy sweating, clean and dry your Apple Watch, the band, and your skin. After swimming, gently rinse the Apple Watch Series 2 and then run it under warm, fresh water. Next, thoroughly dry the Apple Watch and the band. <\/p>
Follow the steps below if your Apple Watch gets wet and the speaker sounds muffled. Don’t put anything into the openings, such as the microphone or speaker ports, and don’t shake the watch to get rid of water. Allowing your Apple Watch to charge overnight may hasten the evaporation process.<\/p>
Measurements from the barometric altimeter on Apple Watch Series 3 and later may be less accurate if water enters the air vent (for example, while swimming). After the water evaporates, normal altimeter performance returns.<\/p>
When you begin a swimming workout, your Apple Watch locks the screen with Water Lock to prevent accidental taps. If you have an Apple Watch Ultra, you can set it to activate Water Lock automatically when submerged to a depth of 10cm or less. When you’re done, press and hold the Digital Crown* to unlock the screen and remove any water from your Apple Watch. To clear any remaining water in the speaker, a series of tones is played.<\/p>
Swipe up on the bottom of the watch face to open Control Center, then tap Water Lock, then press and hold the Digital Crown to unlock the screen and clear water from the speaker.<\/p>
If your Apple Watch runs watchOS 8 or earlier, rotate rather than press the Digital Crown.<\/p>
To see if there is any water in the microphone or speaker, place it, speaker-side down, on a nonabrasive, lint-free cloth and see if any water drips out. Water in the port can reduce speaker or microphone performance until it completely evaporates.<\/p>
Now that you’ve determined which Apple Watch models are suitable for swimming, it’s time to pair it with a band. First up is the tried-and-true Sport Band. This band is a traditional choice for water sports. It is not afraid to get wet because it is made of high-quality silicone. It’s lightweight, long-lasting, and available in\u00a0vibrant colours that will make your wrist pop as you glide through the water.<\/p>
For those who like to take your swimming adventures to the next level, iSTRAP introduces the Sport Band Active. Swimming is taken to a whole new level of coolness by this band. It has perforations that allow for increased breathability and quick drying. No more dripping wrists after a swim! You can make waves in style and comfort with the Sport Band Active.<\/p>
Last but not least, there is the Ocean Band. This band is ready to conquer the deep blue sea, just like its name suggests. It is made of soft, waterproof silicone and can withstand splashes, saltwater, and chlorine. Its sleek and streamlined design ensures a secure fit on your wrist, allowing you to focus solely on perfecting your backstroke.<\/p>