Many of us have heard the popular myth about using rice to rescue a water-damaged smartphone. The idea is that placing the device in a bowl of rice overnight will miraculously revive it. While this method is widely shared and recommended online, the truth is that there is no scientific evidence to support its effectiveness.
It is true that rice has hygroscopic properties, meaning it can absorb moisture. However, when it comes to drying out water-damaged electronics, rice has minimal to no impact on extracting water from the internal components that have been submerged. The myth likely persists because, over time, the device does eventually dry out on its own, regardless of whether rice is involved or not.
Apple, a leading tech company, even warns against using rice as a drying method for iPhones. In their official guide on dealing with water-damaged devices, Apple advises against placing an iPhone in rice, as rice particles can potentially cause further damage.
So what should you do if your phone gets wet? Apple suggests disconnecting the device and not reconnecting it until both the device and charging cable are completely dry. To dry out your iPhone effectively, gently tap it upside down to remove any remaining liquid, and then leave it in a dry place with good airflow. After at least 30 minutes, you can begin charging the device again.
If the phone still shows signs of moisture, leave it in a dry place for up to 24 hours before attempting to charge it again. If the phone has dried but still does not charge, disconnect the cable from the power adapter and the power adapter from the wall outlet (if possible) before reconnecting them.
In conclusion, while the myth of rice saving wet smartphones may be prevalent, it is not a reliable or proven method. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines, such as Apple’s recommendations, is a safer and more effective way to handle water damage.
FAQ:
1. Is it true that placing a water-damaged smartphone in a bowl of rice will revive it?
No, there is no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of using rice to dry out water-damaged electronics.
2. Why does the myth of using rice to rescue water-damaged smartphones persist?
The myth likely persists because, over time, the device does eventually dry out on its own, regardless of whether rice is involved or not.
3. What does Apple advise for dealing with water-damaged iPhones?
Apple advises against placing an iPhone in rice, as rice particles can potentially cause further damage. Instead, they suggest disconnecting the device, gently tapping it upside down to remove any remaining liquid, and leaving it in a dry place with good airflow. After at least 30 minutes, you can begin charging the device again.
4. How long should I leave my wet phone in a dry place before attempting to charge it again?
If the phone still shows signs of moisture, leave it in a dry place for up to 24 hours before attempting to charge it again.
5. What should I do if my dried phone still does not charge?
If the phone has dried but still does not charge, disconnect the cable from the power adapter and the power adapter from the wall outlet (if possible) before reconnecting them.
Definitions:
1. Hygroscopic properties: The ability of a substance, such as rice, to absorb moisture from its surroundings.
Suggested related links:
Apple’s official website
The source of the article is from the blog be3.sk