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Take the iPad 2 into the bathtub, there are no liquid contact indicators (LCIs)

Apple has already relaxed its water damage policies on iOS devices, but we’ve been told by an Apple Genius that the iPad 2 has no Liquid Contact Indicators (LCIs), meaning that Apple has no way to know* if your iPad has been dropped in the water – if you bring it in for repairs.

One reason is that the LCIs may not have been all that reliable in telling of water damage.  Some customers had reported false positives, especially in humid climates…or winter.  One woman is even suing over the matter.

Another is that Apple has changed its headphone plug design – where the indicators traditionally lived – with a new pin design.  Perhaps the LCI’s were a design tradeoff?

via iFixit

Perhaps not, because the LCIs were also removed from the 30-pin plugs as well.

Whatever the reason, Apple’s message is clear.  Go ahead and bring the iPad with you into the Bathtub!*

Details from Apple Genius DB below:

iPad 1:

Liquid Contact Indicators

The iPad warranty excludes coverage for damage caused by liquid. To help determine if an iPad has been in contact with liquid, two liquid contact indicators (LCIs) are installed on the iPad at the following locations: • At the bottom of the headphone jack

• In the 30-pin connector port (requires holding the product at a 45 degree angle to view)

Use a lighted otoscope to look into the headphone jack and 30-pin connector slot for activated LCIs. They turn red on contact with liquid.

*iPad 2

check sim card tray for corrosion

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Avatar for Seth Weintraub Seth Weintraub

Publisher and Editorial Director of the 9to5/Electrek sites.


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