Can Low-Frequency Sound Get Water Out of Your iPhone?

Imagine you’re at a beach and whoops! Your iPhone decides to take a swim. While the immediate dread of water damage takes over, you remember hearing something about using sound to get water out. Sounds like sci-fi, doesn’t it? But there’s more truth to it than fiction.

Apple’s ingenious technology isn’t confined to just its phones. The Apple Watch Series 2 and subsequent models boast a unique “Water Lock” feature. This function emits particular sounds designed to vibrate the device, effectively pushing out any trapped water.

Let’s dive into the sonic world of water ejection.

The Science Behind Sound and Water Ejection

Understanding sound frequencies:
In the world of sound, frequency determines the pitch. Low frequencies give us those deep bass sounds, while high frequencies produce sharper, more treble sounds.

The impact of sound on liquid:
Sound waves, especially low-frequency ones, can create vibrations strong enough to move tiny water droplets, pushing them out of confined spaces like a speaker or microphone grid.

The iPhone’s Water Ejection Mechanism

Apple’s approach to water intrusion:
Apple, with its innovative mindset, has found ways to combat the occasional water intrusion, especially in their newer models that boast a level of water resistance.

The role of low-frequency sound:
To address water that might get into the speakers, Apple devised a method where the speaker itself plays a specific low-frequency sound, generating vibrations to push the water out.

How to Use Sound to Eject Water from Your iPhone

Available apps for water ejection:
There are several apps on the App Store, like “Water Eject,” that play these specific frequencies, aiding in removing water from your speakers.

Drawing inspiration from this, the iPhone now offers a “Water Eject” shortcut. This function releases an ultralow 165Hz-frequency tone, designed to eject water from the iPhone speakers.

How To Use The Water Eject App

You’ll need to setup The Shortcuts app on iOS. This nifty application empowers users to customize automated tasks. Imagine setting a routine where Siri reads you the day’s headlines first thing in the morning, or having a specific playlist start every time you start your workout.

If you’ve previously deleted the Shortcuts app just revisit the App Store and download it again.

Getting Started with the Water Eject Shortcut

The “Water Eject” shortcut, which is readily available for users on RoutineHub – a haven for iOS shortcut enthusiasts.

1. Download Process: Begin by downloading the shortcut. Once downloaded, it redirects you to the Shortcuts app, guiding you through the installation process.
2. Optimal Settings: To maximize the efficacy of the Water Eject shortcut, make sure your phone’s volume is at the highest level. This ensures maximum vibration which aids in water removal.
3. Running the Shortcut: Head to the ‘My Shortcuts’ tab in the Shortcuts app and select the Water Eject option. A menu springs forth:
   • Begin: This option releases the tone for 15 seconds. You’ll notice a vibration, hear a distinctive sound, and receive a notification announcing the water’s ejection.
   • Touch: Opt for this if you wish to manually stop the tone.
   • Settings: Delve deeper into the shortcut’s specifics, update options, share the shortcut, or provide feedback.

Choose the preferred mode and let the magic of sound do its job! Remember, while it’s tempting to let the tone play longer, moderation is key. Prolonged exposure could be counterproductive and damage your speakers.

Manual methods:
Playing songs or sounds with deep bass can sometimes do the trick, though it’s less precise than dedicated apps.

Sometimes, sound waves may not do the complete trick. If traces of moisture linger:

1. Gently wipe your iPhone with a soft, lint-free cloth.
2. Cup the charging port in your palm and gently tap to coax out any remaining droplets.
3. As a last resort, let your iPhone rest in a dry, well-ventilated area to ensure total moisture evaporation.

Benefits of Using Sound Over Other Methods

Using sound is non-invasive and reduces the risk of causing further damage to the device. It also avoids issues linked to other methods like the use of rice or heat, which can sometimes cause more harm than good.

Precautions and Limitations

When to avoid using sound:
If your iPhone has been submerged for an extended period, it might be best to first turn it off and seek professional help before trying the sound method.

Potential risks:
Overusing the sound technique or using sounds at extremely high volumes might damage the speaker itself. Always use this method in moderation.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The idea that a simple sound frequency can combat the complex problem of water intrusion is nothing short of brilliant. It’s a testament to how tech giants like Apple merge science and innovation for practical solutions. While this method is effective for minor splashes, remember always to act fast and use a combination of solutions for the best results. Because while sound can do wonders, it isn’t always the sole savior in water mishaps.

FAQs

1. Does this sound method work for other phone brands?
   While Apple has been known to employ this technique, some other smartphone brands might also benefit from sound-based water ejection, though it varies by model.
2. How often can I use the sound method?
   Use it as needed but in moderation. Excessive use might strain the speaker.
3. Are there any side effects to my phone’s audio quality?
   Typically, no. However, if water remains or the method is overused, it could potentially affect audio quality.
4. Should I still use the rice method after using sound?
   The rice method can be a supplemental step after using sound, especially if the exposure was more than a simple splash.
5. How long should I play the sound to eject water?
   A few minutes usually suffice, but it’s crucial to monitor the process and stop if there’s any distortion or if the water has been visibly ejected.