Even smartphones rated IP68 should not be seen as fully waterproof devices that can be freely used underwater, the article says. Prolonged use at pools or beaches can lead to water damage, and most manufacturers do not cover such damage under warranty. IP tests are conducted under limited depth and time conditions set by each maker and typically use fresh water, making protection less reliable in seawater or chlorinated pools.

Some consumers still seek older smartphones rather than new models, but security should be the main consideration. TechRadar reviewed which older devices remain usable in 2026, focusing on security updates and operating system support. It cited the iPhone 12 as the oldest model still available new. For used phones, Apple provided patches back to the 2015 iPhone 6S, while Android 13 is seen as the security baseline, led by the Pixel 4.