Challenge

For years, high-level water protection was exclusive to premium and high-end smartphones. However, as manufacturing costs decline and consumer expectations rise, even mid- and economy-tier smartphone brands must integrate higher IP-rated protection to enhance product durability, reduce failure rate and remain competitive.

A leading Chinese smartphone manufacturer set out to bring IP69-rated waterproofing to their devices – a significant leap from previous ratings as low as IP53, and far beyond the current industry-standard IP68. Achieving this level of protection while maintaining cost efficiency and acoustic quality presented a serious challenge.

With more than 65 years of expertise in waterproofing technology and material engineering, Gore was the perfect partner to overcome these challenges with.

Solution

Understanding the manufacturer’s need for a high-performance, cost-effective waterproofing solution, Gore proposed a tailored approach using GORE® Acoustic Vents and GORE® Pressure Vents. From the outset, Gore’s engineering team worked closely with the manufacturer’s design team to ensure seamless integration of the venting solutions.

Given the aggressive development timeline, the teams collaborated intensively, addressing key design and assembly challenges at every stage. Gore’s expertise in IP69 compliance proved invaluable, allowing the customer to optimize material selection, assembly techniques, and testing procedures to meet stringent protection standards.

As the project progressed, early testing revealed integration challenges. Gore responded swiftly with rapid prototyping capabilities, enabling quick iterations and delivery of updated samples within days. This agility – made possible by Gore’s stable supply chain and localized technical support – was instrumental in keeping the project on track.

Beyond waterproofing, Gore’s engineers focused on maintaining the smartphone’s acoustic integrity. High levels of water resistance often compromise sound transmission, but Gore’s innovative membrane technology delivered exceptional performance on both fronts. Through meticulous tuning and material optimization, the team achieved a solution that provided IP69-rated protection while preserving high-quality sound with less than 1 dB of insertion loss.

The Technology Behind the Solution: GORE® Acoustic Vents and GORE® Pressure Vents

Combining superior water protection with astonishing audio quality is a demanding task, in which the combination of GORE® Acoustic Vents and GORE® Pressure Vents excels. A few key benefits of the solution include:

  • Achieving highest IP standards for particle and immersion protection
  • Maintaining exceptional levels of acoustic performance
  • Providing optimum airflow for fast pressure equalization

For specifications and more detailed information on installation, please visit GORE® Pressure Vents or GORE® Acoustic Vents.
 

Result

With Gore’s expertise, the OEM successfully launched their first waterproof smartphone – delivering a groundbreaking combination of durability and performance for mid-tier devices. These are the additional achievements of the project:

  • Competitive Advantage: As one of the first mid-tier brands with IP69-rated waterproofing, the customer expanded into new markets.
  • Accelerated Development: Gore’s rapid prototyping and supply chain efficiency enabled mass production within tight time constraints.
  • New Industry Benchmarks: By exceeding IP68 standards, the customer raised expectations for both mid-tier and flagship devices.
  • Acoustic Accuracy: Gore’s membrane solution ensured less than 1 dB insertion loss, preserving high-quality sound.
     
Gore Smartphone Acoustic Pressure Vent Case Study Result

FOR INDUSTRIAL USE ONLY

Not for use in food, drug, cosmetic or medical device manufacturing, processing, or packaging operations.