According to the Japanese website Nikkei Asian Review, the assembler Wistron has recently confirmed the rumor that one of the next generation iPhone models will be “waterproof” and include wireless charging capabilities.
The report reads:
“Assembly process for the previous generations of [iPhones] have not changed much, though new features like waterproof and wireless charging now require some different testing, and waterproof function will alter the assembly process a bit,” [Robert] Hwang, [Wistron CEO], told reporters after the company’s annual shareholders’ meeting on Wednesday.”
Two leading Apple analysts, Jeff Pu of Yuanta Investment Consulting and Arthur Liao of Fubon Securities, have claimed that Wistron is splitting orders for the new 5.5 inch iPhone with larger partner Foxconn so it seems likely that Wistron are referring to the so-called iPhone 7s Plus.
From what we’re expecting of the iPhone 8 it will be a premium smartphone, likely to feature wireless charging and improved water resistance. The iPhone 7 and 7 Plus models are already splash and water resistant with an IP67 rating but read the fine print and you’ll discover Apple’s warning that “splash, water, and dust resistance are not permanent conditions and resistance might decrease as a result of normal wear.” Water damage is not covered by Apple warranties but despite this, iPhone 7 and 7 Plus users still continue to use them in the shower.
Reports earlier this year claimed that the next iPhone models would have improved IP68 rated water resistance meaning that they will remain dustproof and even more water resistant. The Samsung Galaxy S8, which already has a IP68 rating, can withstand 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes.