Why You Should NEVER Put Your Phone in Rice – Apple Explains
February 22, 2024
source: iStock
Oh, the dreaded moment your iPhone takes a dive into the unknown depths of water—be it a puddle, sink, or, heavens forbid, a toilet. The panic sets in, and the age-old wisdom of burying your precious device in a bowl of rice surfaces. But wait—Apple has recently dropped some truth bombs that might make you rethink this ritual. Turns out, the rice trick is more myth than magic, and there are better ways to rescue your waterlogged friend.
The Rice Myth: Why You Should Skip It
Let’s get straight to the point: shoving your iPhone into a bed of rice might feel like you’re doing something proactive, but it’s not the lifesaver you think it is. Apple has come forward to say that this well-meaning act could actually do more harm than good. The grains can get stuck in ports and jacks, leading to more headaches than relief. And while rice does absorb moisture, it’s not efficient enough to draw out the liquid trapped deep within your device. So, what should you do instead?
The Power of Patience: A Virtue for Your iPhone
Apple’s best advice boils down to one word: patience. In the fast-paced world we live in, waiting is a hard sell, but it truly is the best course of action for a waterlogged iPhone. Here are some dos and don’ts to guide you through the recovery process, ensuring your device lives to see another day.
DO:
Gently Tap Your Phone on Your Hand: Start by holding your iPhone with the charging port facing down. Gently tap it on your hand to help shake out any excess liquid. This action can help dislodge water without pushing it deeper into the device.
Leave It in a Dry Place with Good Ventilation for Up to 24 Hours: Find a spot with good airflow and leave your device there to dry naturally. A shelf or countertop away from direct sunlight or heat sources is ideal. The ambient air will do its job, just give it time.
DON’T:
Leave Your Phone in a Bowl of Rice: As tempting as it might be, this method is now officially debunked. It’s time to retire the rice trick and trust in more effective methods.
Try to Dry the Phone with External Heat or Air Sources: Applying a hairdryer or placing your iPhone in direct sunlight seems like a quick fix, but it can cause more damage. Excessive heat can harm internal components, leading to irreversible damage.
Insert a Cotton Bud or Any Object into the Charging Port: This might seem like a good way to get the water out, but it’s risky. You could accidentally damage the port or push the moisture further in.
So, if your iPhone takes an unexpected swim, resist the urge to reach for the rice. Instead, embrace patience and follow Apple’s official advice. Gently tap, leave it to dry in a well-ventilated area, and remember, the key to saving your water-damaged iPhone might just be doing less. Trust in the process, and with a bit of luck, your digital companion will be back in action without the need for any grains.