![Oceanic+ Dive Housing in use underwater](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/8MGzc8Gq2KVULaTv3fcB9d-415-80.jpg)
It was famously once said by wise old Sebastian the crab that life is better down where it's wetter and if you're an iPhone user that could soon be the case. A new patent filed by Apple has been revealed to relate to an "Underwater mode" for future devices.
Of course, a patent has no guarantee of ever seeing the light of day but it makes sense for those who are big into their diving. We have already seen a host of underwater-focused accessories for the iPhone and coupled with the Apple Watch Ultra 2's impressive diving, scuba and freediving modes Apple fans could be in an underwater paradise.
The 78-page patent explains that Apple aims to create an interface that works better when underwater with a belief that currently, iOS is "cumbersome and inefficient” in the deep blue sea.
As with most phones, many iOS features are made redundant underwater (forget about listening to music or calling anybody for a start) so an underwater mode would likely focus on what divers would be looking for, ease of use and camera access chief among them. In which case Apple should look to the best dive watches and best underwater cameras for inspiration.
This is all a bit niche for us landlubbers but those who like to get wet behind the ears will appreciate what future iPhones could have to offer. Some have speculated that this could be a feature that makes its introduction with the iPhone 16, but I see no reason why it couldn't be an iOS update, although if partnered with some improved waterproofing or underwater camera features then it would make sense for the next phone.
Living in the UK with some less than crystal blue seas I'm not sure how much use I'd get from this feature but on holidays it could be a great way to help make memories last forever.
Upgrade to smarter living
Get the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products straight to your inbox.
Andy is T3's Tech Staff Writer, covering all things technology, including his biggest passions such as gaming, AI, phones, and basically anything cool and expensive he can get his hands on. If he had to save one possession from a fire it would be his PlayStation 5. He previously worked for Tom’s Guide - where he got paid to play with ChatGPT every day. When it comes to streaming, Andy will have his headphones glued in whilst watching something that will make him laugh. He studied Creative Writing at university, but also enjoys supporting his favourite football team (Liverpool), watching F1, teaching himself guitar, and spending time with his dog.
-
iPhone 16 "design changes" could impact Face ID on forthcoming handsets
No one's sure what it'll look like
By Max Freeman-Mills Published
-
All iPhone 16 models to get the same power boost, claims report
Current iPhones don't have the same processor generation as the Pro models
By Carrie Marshall Published
-
It seems iPhone 16 could ditch physical buttons completely
Bye bye buttons
By Andy Sansom Published
-
New iPhone 16 dummy units leak confirms at least one major design change
Production test m
By Max Freeman-Mills Published
-
iPhone 16 Pro tipped for internal tech boost that will be the biggest in years
The new iPhone is going to pack in a new chip with some killer modern technology
By Sam Cross Published
-
A cheap Samsung Galaxy foldable phone might steal the iPhone 16's limelight
An affordable Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 might launch earlier to compete with the new iPhone
By Sam Cross Published
-
iPhone 16 mould spotted in the wild, shows the new camera module
Will we snap happier with the iPhone 16?
By Andy Sansom Published
-
Apple could spring major camera overhaul for iPhone 16
Back to the old ways?
By Max Freeman-Mills Published