In an astounding demonstration of durability, an iPhone 12 recently emerged in flawless working order after spending over 3 months fully submerged in California’s Stanislaus River.
The Incredible Discovery
The unexpected discovery occurred when diver Lee was cleaning the Stanislaus River on November 10th and came across an algae-covered iPhone 12 lying on the riverbed. Intrigued by his finding, Lee retrieved the device and brought it to the surface. Given the heavy algae accumulation after months underwater, he assumed the phone would be non-functional.
However, Lee decided to let the iPhone dry out for several days before attempting to power it on. When he finally connected his charger, Lee was shocked to see the Apple logo illuminate – the phone was still working! This was an incredible discovery that defied the odds, given Apple’s claims that the iPhone 12 can only withstand submersion at a 6-meter depth for 30 minutes.
Yet somehow, this particular unit had survived over 90 days of constant water exposure at varying river depths. It had endured silt, debris, temperature changes and every element the river had to offer, all while fully submerged. And despite some algae clinging to the case, the phone had emerged in flawless working order. Astounded by his finding, Lee accessed the photo gallery and could see videos dated to September 4th, indicating the iPhone 12 had been in the river since at least early September.
The incredible discovery immediately went viral online when Lee shared his first-hand account. Technology experts marveled at the iPhone’s durability, greatly exceeding both Apple’s official claims and general expectations about consumer electronics water resistance. Lee’s serendipitous finding in the Stanislaus River illustrated an unprecedented level of resilience for the iPhone 12.
Defying the Odds
The iPhone’s ability to survive and remain fully functional after 3 months fully submerged in a river can only be described as defying the odds. As noted by WordHippo, “defying the odds” means overcoming challenges and succeeding “despite seemingly insurmountable opposition or probability”.
In this case, the iPhone faced incredibly difficult odds. Moving river water, particles, debris, and algae posed constant threats over a 90 day period – far exceeding Apple’s official water resistance rating. Yet somehow, the iPhone persevered.
As Yale University Press notes, tales of groups “defying the odds” often detail their ability to overcome adversity through resilience and determination. While an inanimate object like the iPhone did not consciously exhibit these traits, its robust design and construction allowed it to mimic the success of human groups who have defied expectations.
Much like the non-league football club highlighted as “defying the odds” or the California tribe who fought for their rights, this iPhone survived its trial by river. Its against-all-odds emergence mirrors heartwarming stories of individuals persevering through trauma, like those shared by the Family Violence Intervention Program.
Of course, an iPhone is no human being with lived experience. But this level of durability in extreme conditions still inspires awe and demonstrates almost mythical levels of resilience. Just as characters “defy the odds” to find love in novels like Defying the Odds, this iPhone defied all logic to remain whole. Its 3 month ordeal, while not fraught with emotion, was every bit as wondrous.
Still Fully Functional Despite Long Submersion
Remarkably, the iPhone was in flawless working condition even after spending over 3 months fully submerged in the river. As Lee accessed the device, he found no issues with any of the iPhone’s key features and functions.
The photo gallery and camera app launched seamlessly, indicating the advanced water sealing had prevented any liquid damage to internal components. Videos played back smoothly, while apps opened and switched without any lag or crashes. The display remained vibrant without any noticeable defects.
Crucially, cellular and WiFi connectivity were not compromised despite the long duration underwater. As per the search results, water exposure can damage the gasket materials that protect ports and openings. However, the tight IP68 sealing had likely kept this iPhone’s antennas and related hardware intact.
With the phone unlocked and no passcode enabled, Lee could access everything on the device. The most recent video dated September 4 confirmed the 3 month timeline, as the iPhone captured footage up until entering the water.
For Apple, such demonstrations of real-world durability beyond advertised limits are invaluable. While Apple does not cover water damage in warranties, this case shows the immense engineering effort invested in protecting iPhones from the elements.
By surviving and functioning perfectly despite three months of full submersion, the iPhone 12 has dramatically exceeded expectations. Apple can undoubtedly highlight stories like this to showcase their commitment to designing resilient devices.
