A Google Pixel 8 was found unscathed after spending four days submerged in a hot tub at 113 °F. Shared on Reddit, this story highlights two things: first, that smartphones too can enjoy a spa session, and second, that the IP68 certification this model boasts is well-earned.
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A Forgotten Pixel 8 in a Spa, Found Intact
A Reddit user, vacationing in Poland, thought he had lost his smartphone on the very first day of his trip. Completely inebriated, he couldn’t recall where he had left it. It wasn’t until several days later, back at home, that he received a video from the Airbnb owner: the Pixel 8 was at the bottom of the hot tub, scooped out with a net. The water, kept at 113 °F, had stewed the device for four days. To everyone’s astonishment, the phone still worked perfectly.
IP68: From Theory to Practice
The Pixel 8 comes with an IP68 rating, which means it can withstand being submerged up to about 5 feet deep for 30 minutes in freshwater. This standard doesn’t account for several days in hot, chlorinated water. Yet, in this particular case, the phone showed no malfunctions: the screen was intact, touch functionality was responsive, and it charged properly. The phone simply needed a rinse and dry. This scenario was an extreme case, well beyond the scenarios outlined by the specifications.
Not Recommended for At-Home Experimentation
Although this Pixel 8 survived the ordeal, not all models might react the same way. Other users have reported failures after mere splashes or exposure to moisture in a pocket. The wear and tear on the sealing gasket or adhesive can make a difference: the older your phone, the less resistant it will be. Some also point out that high temperatures can soften internal adhesives, although this often requires temperatures over 176 °F.
This case reignites the debate on the reliability of IP certifications under real-world conditions. The story is compelling for those in search of a rugged smartphone, but it shouldn’t be taken as the norm. Google does not guarantee performance under prolonged submersion. As always, it’s best not to personally test the advertised limits. Nevertheless, it’s clear that, in this instance, the Pixel 8 excelled remarkably.