realme is set to introduce a new smartphone to the Philippine market with a striking claim: The device is worry-proof. The company has confirmed that the realme C75 will officially launch on January 23, following a quiet debut in Vietnam last month.

Positioned within realme’s budget-conscious C series, the C75 is touted as the most durable entry yet. The phone boasts an IP66/IP68/IP69 rating, a combination rarely seen in the smartphone world, signifying robust protection against dust and water ingress. This is complemented by Armor Shell Protection and ArmorShell Glass to enhance shock resistance.

@revuphilippines We made soup with the #realmeC75. 😁 It certainly took the heat! 🔥 It’s diving in at 6 p.m. on Jan. 23 — mark your calendars! Visit www.revu.com.ph for updates. #WaterproofWorryproof #realme #realmePH #realmePhilippines #RevuDotComDotPH @realme Philippines @monch @Alora Uy Guerrero ♬ original sound – Revu Philippines

Worry-proof smartphone? See for yourself! Disclaimer: We were challenged by realme Philippines to boil our realme C75 review unit. You shouldn’t attempt this at home. Always handle your phone with care and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines

What is an IP69 rating, and why does it matter?

While flagship smartphones typically feature IP68 ratings, and many mid-range devices offer IP67, realme’s adoption of IP69 aligns with a recent trend among Chinese manufacturers. But what does this higher rating mean, or does it even matter at all?

Essentially, an IP rating indicates the level of protection a device offers against the intrusion of dust and water. The first digit, ranging from 0 to 6, signifies dust protection, while the second, ranging from 0 to 9, denotes water resistance.

The inclusion of an IP69 rating in the realme C75 is a notable development, as this level of protection has been largely absent from mainstream smartphones until recently. While commonplace in ruggedized devices designed for extreme environments, the cost associated with achieving this certification has traditionally deterred manufacturers of more budget-friendly models.

To obtain an IP rating, manufacturers must submit their devices to rigorous testing conducted by independent third-party laboratories. The higher the desired rating, the more demanding — and expensive — the testing process becomes. This explains why many less expensive smartphones either forgo official IP certification altogether or opt for lower ratings like IP54, which offer more basic protection against dust and water.

Previously found mainly on ruggedized phones, IP69 provides the same water immersion protection as IP68, but with added resistance to high-pressure, high-temperature water jets (up to 80°C)

IP69, until recently found primarily in ruggedized phones, provides the same level of water immersion as an IP68-rated device, but with added resistance to high-pressure, high-temperature water jets of up to 80 degrees Celsius. This makes a phone like the realme C75 suitable for extreme environments — or at least, that’s the plan.

However, it’s important to remember that even with an IP69 rating, there are limitations. Saltwater damage isn’t covered, so be sure to rinse the phone with fresh water after any exposure to saltwater. Nonetheless, the current trend towards IP69 in some aggressively priced handsets suggests that OEMs are recognizing the increasing consumer demand for durability, even in the bargain basement.

The realme C75’s emphasis on durability could be a significant differentiator in the Philippines. Stay tuned for our full review when it becomes available next week, after the embargo lifts.

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