The Apple Watch has been designed with water resistance in mind since its introduction in 2015. The original Apple Watch was rated as splash-resistant, which means that it could withstand brief exposure to water, but it was not suitable for swimming or other activities that involved extended exposure to water.
In 2016, the Apple Watch Series 2 was released, and it was the first Apple Watch to be rated as water-resistant, with a rating of IPX7 under the International Protection Rating system. This means that it can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes without suffering any damage.
In 2019, the Apple Watch Series 5 was released, and it was the first Apple Watch to feature an always-on display. It was also water-resistant, with a rating of IPX7.
Then, the Apple Watch Series 6, was released in 2020 and it continued to offer water-resistance with a rating of IPX7
Finally, the long-awaited improvement came with the Apple Watch Ultra in Fall 2022. It became the first Apple Watch suited to a 50-meter diving depth, under international standards. Apple heavily marketed this claim, and even supported the development of new applications for this specific purpose.
Therefore, water resistance has always been a part of the Apple Watch’s roadmap. Although it may have taken a few years to gain the expertise required for this type of water resistance in wearable technology.
Do you dive with your Apple Watch?