Google Pixel phones IP53 rated but not fully' waterproof

Rumours emerging from the Internet indicated that Google’s new Pixel smartphones will come along with basic IP53 certified dust and water resistance, which won’t offer deep water protection.

A report on Android Police said the IP53 certified devices will not experience damage from water entry when upright at an angle not exceeding 60 degree from vertical, while being sprayed by relatively low-pressure water. This means that water won’t enter the device when you’re holding the phone at a relatively upward angle during heavy rainfall.

When the new Pixel smartphones will be left on a flat surface, the IP53 certification won't  protect the devices from water ingress during heavy rainfall or mist. To put it simply, you might be able to send a text or two during heavy downpour but won’t be able to use it for prolonged periods.

The report also mentioned that IP53 certification does not even technically promise a phone being splash-proof when left on a flat surface exposed to water.

So users who are looking forward to buy the new devices will have to be extra careful to prevent water from coming close to the charging port, speakers and 3.5mm headphone port. Users should also be vigilant about wiping their phone immediately after minor splashes, as IP53 does not provide protection for long periods.

The new Pixel smartphone is just about water-proof, just like the HTC 10 that also had IP53 certification. But it is definitely does not have water emersion capabilities like the Samsung S7 and S7 Edge.