Waterproof iPhones Coming? [Release Date, Specs, Features & Rumors]

There are rumors that the next line of Apple iPhone will be waterproof.

Apple Insider noted that Apple filed a patent application in June 2014 which was published by the USPTO, suggesting that waterproof iPhones will become available in the future. As recent rumors mentioned that the Apple iPhone 7 will be resistant to water, it might be due to a new kind of rubber, which is a self-healing elastomer that can lose and then get back its shape, as described in the patent application.

The patent application described that probes can puncture the elastomer which will reseal on its own after extraction. The material is described as polymerized siloxane or silicone, which can heal on their own after structure damage by reforming the chemical bonds and regaining mechanical properties. The ideal elastomer that Apple is aiming for should at least regain 90 percent of its original tensile strength in the area where it is penetrated. It may also be mixed with other materials to have a color that matches the portable product where it will be used. A number of manufacturing approaches may require the material to be applied on sensitive contacts in liquid form, while other methods may allow it to be applied via pre-molded attachments.

The patent was described as “Electronic device with hidden connector.” It is not actually the first time that Apple will delve into water-resistant components. The company owns a patent for a waterproof logicboard, which is currently available in the Apple iPhone 6s and 6s Plus. The two phones can handle water to a certain extent, but are still not deemed water-resistant, Phone Arena noted.

Phone Arena wrote that the elastomer seal can function as a cover to a component like an earphone jack. When a plug is inserted into the jack, the special seal would accommodate the plug accordingly so that it can be inserted into the port conveniently. If the plug is taken out, the rubber will retain its original shape. While opening up and returning to its original form, the rubber will cover the port adequately, keeping water out. The rubber protector can also keep the device safe against gas, dust and debris. The elastomer regions that are in contact with open traces are also provided with conductive particulates where the probe penetrates to add electrical connections and improve reliability.

More updates and details on the new technology and potential waterproof iPhones are expected soon.