Data recovery services for water-damaged iPhone 11

January 31, 2024
Posted by: Tawanda

In the unfortunate event of water damage to your iPhone, quick and decisive action can be the difference between a salvageable device and a loss of precious data. Our step-by-step guide provides a detailed approach to fixing a water-damaged iPhone and recovering any missing data.

Recognizing Water Damage Symptoms

Identifying water damage symptoms is crucial for timely intervention. Common indicators include:

The phone won’t turn on.
Corrosion around the charging port or headphone jack.
Display anomalies such as lines, streaks, or discoloration.
Audible buzzing when shaking the device.
Malfunctioning buttons.

Modern iPhones, including the iPhone 14, may lack a visible Liquid Contact Indicator (LCI), but they are designed to resist water spills more effectively.

Locating the Liquid Contact Indicator (LCI)

The LCI is a vital tool for assessing water damage. Here’s how to find it on different iPhone models:

iPhone 13 Mini, iPhone 13, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Mini, and iPhone 12 Pro

Positioned at the bottom, aligned with the volume buttons.

iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, and iPhone 12 Pro Max

Located on the side, near the volume buttons.

iPhone 11 and iPhone XR

Placed at the bottom, in line with the ON/OFF button.

iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation), iPhone 7, and iPhone 7 Plus

Found on the side, alongside the ON/OFF button.

Important Note: Water damages are not covered by the one-year warranty. If the LCI indicates liquid damage, prompt action is necessary.

8 Steps to Salvage a Water-Damaged iPhone

Step 1 – Remove the iPhone from Water

Lift the device from the water and place it on a dry surface to prevent further damage.

Step 2 – Power Off Your iPhone

Immediately shut down the iPhone to minimize damage and prevent corrosion.

Step 3 – Remove Case and SIM Card

Take out the SIM card, battery, and any removable parts. Remove the case to facilitate drying.

Step 4 – Wipe the iPhone

Use a clean, dry towel to wipe down the phone, focusing on areas like the charging port and headphone jack.

Step 5 – Check the LCI Light

Verify if the LCI light is red, indicating water damage.

Step 6 – Wait 48 Hours

Allow the iPhone to dry in a well-ventilated room for at least 48 hours. Avoid using a hairdryer or rice.

Step 7 – Turn on Your iPhone

Reassemble and power on the iPhone. Seek professional help if uncertain.

Step 8 – Backup Your iPhone

As soon as the iPhone is operational, back up data to iCloud or another preferred cloud service.

Water-Damaged iPhone Data Recovery

After salvaging the iPhone, consider these options for data recovery:

1. Recover from Backup

Restore data from an iCloud backup through on-screen setup steps.

2. Retrieve Data Using Software

Connect the iPhone to a computer and use data recovery software for file retrieval.

3. Professional Data Recovery Service

If the iPhone is inoperable, consult an Apple professional data recovery service for comprehensive assistance.

Implementing these steps promptly can increase the likelihood of salvaging a water-damaged iPhone and recovering crucial data. For professional assistance, contact AppleCare or a reputable iPhone repair service provider.

graph TD



A[Recognize Water Damage] -->|Symptoms| B(Locate LCI)

B -->|LCI Location| C{Water Damage Present?}

C -->|Yes| D[Follow 8 Salvage Steps]

C -->|No| E[Preventive Measures]

D -->|Successful?| F[Data Recovery Options]

F -->|Backup| G[Recover from Backup]

F -->|Software| H[Retrieve Data Using Software]

F -->|Professional Help| I[Contact Data Recovery Service]

Remember, swift action is paramount in the face of water damage. Follow our guide for a comprehensive approach to salvaging your water-damaged iPhone and securing your valuable data.

Author: Tawanda