What Do IP6X And WR50 Ratings On Apple Watch Series 7 stand for? And how do they help?

The Apple Watch Series 7 gained a lot of attention upon its release not just because of the host of features on offer, but also because of the upgraded dust and water protection ratings. For people who want to keep a track of their fitness while swimming, this may be good news. You can wear your Apple Watch to the pool. But what do the IP6X and WR50 ratings on Apple Watch Series 7 stand for? And how do they help? We take a closer look in this article.

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IP6X rating for Apple Watch Series 7 explained

The IP rating stands for Ingress Protection and is a standard for determining how dustproof or waterproof your device is. The first digit in the IP rating is a measure of protection against solid particles. A rating of 5 suggests that the device is dust resistant, while a rating of 6 means that the device is totally dustproof. The Apple Watch Series 7 has a protection rating of 6 against solid particles which means it is completely dustproof.

The IP Standard is set by the International Electrotechnical Commission, and any product that is tested under IP guidelines must go through a series of rigorous testing conducted by an independent body.

The second digit in the IP rating is a measure of protection against water. Some devices may omit this rating if they have a different rating for the waterproofing standard. The highest water protection rating offered by IP is 9k. If a device is rated 9k under IP, it can withstand high pressure and high-temperature water sprays and function normally. Since the Apple Watch Series 7 has a different rating standard for water resistance, there is an ‘X’ in place of the second IP rating.

WR50 rating for Apple Watch Series 7 explained

The WR50 rating on the Apple Watch Series 7 means that it is water resistant up to 50 metres. The WR50 rating is under the ISO 22810:2010 standard. A WR50 rating means you can wear your Apple Watch while swimming or showering. Apple also claims that you can wear it to the ocean and hot tubs. As long as you’re in shallow waters, your watch is entirely water resistant.

However, any depths in excess of 50 metres may prove to be harmful to your Apple Watch. Apple does not recommend wearing the Apple Watch while scuba diving, water skiing, or any activities involving high-velocity water or submersion below shallow depths.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear my Apple Watch while swimming?

Yes, you can wear your Apple Watch while swimming in a pool or the ocean. The WR50 rating means that the Apple Watch is water resistant up to 50 metres. 

Can I wear my Apple Watch while showering?

Yes, you can wear your Apple Watch in the shower. Just make sure that it doesn’t remain in contact with shampoo, soap, or conditioner for a long time. Prolonged exposure to chemicals can harm the Apple Watch.

Can I wear my Apple Watch while scuba diving?

No, you will certainly harm the Apple Watch if you wear it while scuba diving, water skiing, or any deep-sea activity. The Apple Watch is only water resistant up to 50 metres.