Tech giant Apple has cautioned users against placing a wet iPhone in grains of rice, with the company suggesting that this method could potentially worsen the situation by allowing small particles of rice to damage the device’s internals.
The warning from Apple coincides with similar advice from repair experts, who have found that the rice hack works slower than simply allowing the wet iPhone to air dry on a counter. Time is of the essence in such scenarios, as the primary goal is to prevent water from causing irreparable damage to the device’s electronic components.
In a support document Apple provided iPhone users with a set of alternate solutions to address the issue, instead of relying on rice. If an iPhone or charging connector becomes wet, Apple recommends the following steps:
- Unplug the cable from the iPhone and disconnect the other end from the power adapter or accessory. Refrain from reconnecting the cable until both the iPhone and cable are completely dry.
- Gently tap the iPhone against your hand with the connector facing downwards to remove excess liquid. Place the iPhone in a dry area with adequate airflow.
- After at least 30 minutes, attempt to charge the device using a Lightning or USB-C cable, or connect an accessory.
- If the alert indicating moisture persists, it suggests that there is still liquid in the connector or under the pins of the cable. Leave the iPhone in a dry area with sufficient airflow for up to 24 hours.
- If the device still fails to charge after drying out, unplug the cable from the adapter and disconnect the adapter from the wall (if feasible). Reconnect them and try charging again.
Should the aforementioned steps fail to resolve the issue, users are advised to seek assistance from professional repair experts. It’s crucial to avoid resorting to rice, as it may inadvertently cause further harm to the device.
By following the recommended procedures, users can maximize the chances of salvaging their wet devices and avoiding costly repairs or replacements.
By Derrick Kafui Deti – Digital Economy Magazine
