When a smartphone gets splashed at the beach, some people turn to running power-hungry apps to speed up drying by warming the device. This approach was described by Kirill Sitnov, a teacher and hardware expert at the Moscow School of Programmers, in an interview with socialbites.ca. The gist is to open all possible escape routes for the moisture right away and to remove easily accessible components whenever possible.
For modern smartphones, removing the SIM card tray is commonly advised because the battery is not typically user-removable and many devices have sealed backs. The next step, according to Sitnov, is to run a benchmarking app such as AnTuTu Benchmark or 3DMark to push the chip to its maximum, with the claim that most of the liquid will evaporate as a result. Prospective readers should note that this method relies on increasing internal heat to accelerate evaporation. The expert cautions against using external heating devices, since extra heat can stress the battery and other components, potentially causing harm. To shield devices from river or sea humidity, one can consider protective covers that resemble waterproof bags with zippers to seal out moisture.
When sand finds its way into a smartphone, the built-in tools on some platforms can help. For example, iOS users can access the Water Extraction feature to remove moisture, or one can install a dedicated app designed to clear the speaker from water. When activated, the device will emit periodic alerts, and the user should perform gentle shaking motions to aid the process. In situations where sand remains lodged in connectors, it is advised to use a soft implement to carefully dislodge particles. Metal tools should be avoided, since they can short contacts or cause damage. The cleaning motion should be light and deliberate, avoiding aggressive scrubbing that might push debris deeper into the device.
If the device does not respond after these steps, seeking professional service is advisable to prevent further damage. For example, bending or forcing a connector could worsen the issue. It is prudent to rely on trained technicians rather than risking irreparable harm. A prior caution from a different expert warned against cooling smartphones in a refrigerator, a reminder that unconventional drying methods can do more harm than good.
Overall, the guidance emphasizes careful handling, the use of built-in or approved tools, and professional assistance when needed. Users should weigh the potential risks of heat-based drying against safer alternatives, especially on devices with non-removable batteries and sealed enclosures. Taking sensible precautions at the beach or near water—such as keeping devices in protective cases and minimizing exposure—helps reduce the chance of liquid intrusion in the first place. This balanced approach aligns with keeping modern smartphones safe while navigating accidental moisture exposure, whether at a lake, river, or sea.