If you’re a new AirTag user or considering buying one, you might wonder, can AirTags get wet? Or how they might fare if submerged in water. Well, you are in luck because this article has the answers.
AirTags can get wet, and some exposure to water is okay. However, they’re not waterproof, but they are water-resistant to a maximum depth of 1 meter for up to 30 minutes.
In this article, I explore everything you need to know about an AirTag getting wet, can it survive a liquid spill, and much more. This information will help you decide if this Apple Bluetooth tracking tech is the best solution for your tracking needs.
Are AirTags Water-Resistant And Splash-Resistant?
Knowing that AirTags are durable and can get wet, and since you’re able to attach an AirTag to virtually anything, it’s important to note in Apple’s AirTag technical specifications, they’re only splash and water-resistant, and not waterproof.
So what does water-resistant mean for you in practical terms when using an AirTag? It means it can withstand water splash events and liquid spills and is designed to resist water ingression when submerged at a maximum depth of 1 meter for up to 30 minutes. However, this doesn’t mean that an AirTag is waterproof by any stretch of the imagination.
For most AirTag owners, attaching an one to an item that may be subjected to rain for example, it will continue to work as expected. If on the other hand, you’re planning on physically using your AirTag underwater, then the likelihood is your device and the battery will eventually fail.
How Waterproof Are AirTags?
AirTags are not waterproof, they are only water-resistant and carry an IP67 water ingress protection rating at a maximum depth of 1 meter for up to 30 minutes.
AirTag users should not expect their device to operate outside the IP67 water ingress protection rating identified by Apple. Another general expectation to consider is device age. As it ages, as does the device’s ability to withstand the requirements of the water ingress rating due to normal wear and tear.
Some final points to note. During a water test by Zollotech, it was noted that while fully submerged within water, the tester could no longer hear the sound played by the AirTag’s built-in speaker.
Furthermore, during the same waterproof testing, the tester was unable to find the AirTag from approximately 2-3 feet using the Find Nearby feature. During a similar test at a much shallower water depth, the tester was successfully able to hear and find the AirTag as expected.
See what happens when you drop an AirTag in water.
What If My AirTag Gets Wet?
First of all, if your AirTag gets wet, do not panic. You should dry it off with a microfiber or lint-free cloth as quick as possible. However, accidents will happen, bellow you’ll find the steps to take if your AirTag accidentally ends up in deep water or liquid for a prolonged period.
How Do I Dry A Wet AirTag?
- First, ensure the AirTag’s surface is dry.
- Next, place the AirTag so the silver stainless steel battery cover is facing up.
- Next, press down on the cover and rotate counterclockwise.
- Next, remove the cover and battery.
- Next, if you see any water or liquid, dry it gently.
- Next, leave the case open to fully air dry.
- When fully dry, insert the battery positive side facing up.
- Next, replace the cover making sure that it aligns with the AirTag.
- Lastly, rotate the cover clockwise until it stops.
For further reading, check out my other article on an AirTag’s battery life.
Are There Waterproof AirTag Cases?
There are many waterproof cases available to buy that can protect an AirTag and its battery from the effects of water and liquid. Cases and holders on the market today generally offer an ingress protection rating of IPx8 that offers AirTags protection from the effects of water under pressure for long periods.
As identified above, fully submerging an AirTag in water has the potential to reduce its tracking functionality, however, your mileage may vary. A plus of using a waterproof case is being able to attach your AirTag to water-based equipment like a jet ski without the worry of water ingress.
Mozoter Waterproof AirTag Case
TagVault Waterproof AirTag Keychain
Frequently Asked Questions
Hopefully, I have answered all your questions on, can AirTags get wet and are AirTags waterproof. Below I answer a few additional AirTag frequently asked questions, or check out my other article on are AirTags weather-resistant.
Are AirTags easy to set up?
- AirTags are very easy to set up using Apple’s Bluetooth paring process.
Do you have to charge an AirTag?
- You do not and cannot charge an AirTag.
Can you shower with AirTags?
- You can shower with an AirTag, just keep it under 30 minutes.
Can you swim with AirTags?
- You can swim with an AirTag, however keep in mind that they are only water resistant.
What happens if an AirTag gets wet?
- AirTags are designed to be water-resistant, but If you expose an AirTag to water outside the recommended ingress rating, you run the risk of water penetration resulting in permanent damage.
Final Thoughts On Can AirTags Get Wet And Are They Waterproof
So, in conclusion. Can AirTags get wet? Yes. AirTags can get wet, and no, they are not waterproof. AirTags are only water-resistant and splash-resistant and have an ingress protection rating of IP67, so you should not expect them to be waterproof. If you want IPX8 waterproof protection against water submersion, consider purchasing a waterproof AirTag case or keychain.
Looking for additional reading, check out my other article where I explore where to use Apple AirTags.
