Case Study Summary
- Device: Apple iPhone 12
- Problem: Severe swimming pool water damage with corrosion and prior failed repair attempt
- Cause: iPhone dropped into a swimming pool, followed by excessive heat applied during a previous repair attempt
- Solution: Component-level microsoldering and logic board repair
- Outcome: Device powered on and full data backup completed
This iPhone 12 water damage data recovery case study documents a successful recovery after an iPhone fell into a swimming pool and later suffered further damage during an unsuccessful third-party repair attempt. The device would not power on or connect to a computer, placing all data at risk.
The Problem: iPhone Fell in Swimming Pool
The iPhone 12 was exposed to swimming pool water and later taken to another repair shop. During that attempt, excessive heat was applied while separating board layers, significantly increasing the complexity of the recovery. When the device arrived at Payam Data Recovery, it showed extensive corrosion across critical logic board areas.
The iPhone 12 Water Damage Data Recovery Process
Senior technician Wei carefully separated the logic board layers and identified corrosion around the audio IC and Face ID IC. These components were removed as they are not required for data extraction.
Further inspection revealed a shorted main power relay caused by corrosion. After replacing the main power IC, the short was resolved, but the phone still would not charge or communicate with a computer.
Additional diagnostics located corrosion damage on the charging IC. Once this component was replaced using precision microsoldering techniques, the device powered on successfully and connected to a PC, allowing a complete data backup.
Results of the iPhone 12 Water Damage Data Recovery Case Study
After component-level repair, the iPhone powered on and all accessible data was successfully backed up. This case demonstrates how professional logic board repair can recover data even after severe liquid exposure and failed prior repairs.
Why Professional iPhone Water Damage Data Recovery Matters
Swimming pool water contains chemicals that accelerate corrosion. Once corrosion spreads beneath shielding and between board layers, standard phone repairs are no longer sufficient. Professional iPhone data recovery focuses on restoring temporary functionality solely to extract data, not to return the phone to daily use.
Authoritative technical guidance on water resistance limitations is outlined in Apple’s documentation:
Apple iPhone water resistance information.
iPhone Data Recovery Pricing and Service Options
All mobile phone data recovery is offered at fixed pricing, regardless of fault type:
- Economy service: $795 AUD
- Priority service: $1,500 AUD
- Emergency service: $2,500 AUD
There is no free assessment for mobile devices. The customer must know the device passcode. Pricing is fixed and not dependent on recovery outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can data be recovered after an iPhone falls in a swimming pool?
Yes. Even when an iPhone appears completely dead, professional component-level repair can often restore access long enough to extract data.
Does prior repair damage reduce recovery chances?
Yes. Excessive heat, improper tools, or incomplete cleaning can significantly increase corrosion and reduce success rates.
Is the phone repaired for continued use?
No. The objective is data recovery only. The phone may not remain functional after recovery.
How quickly should a liquid damaged iPhone be sent for recovery?
As soon as possible. Corrosion progresses over time, especially with pool water exposure.
Is my data kept confidential?
Yes. All recoveries are handled under strict confidentiality and privacy procedures.
About Payam Data Recovery
Payam Data Recovery works with individuals, students, families, small and medium businesses, IT companies, and organisations that need their data recovered safely and professionally. Some customers come to us with a single damaged device containing personal memories, while others rely on us for complex technical recoveries that require specialist tools and experience.
We are based in Australia and have been recovering data since 1998. Our clients also include governments, law enforcement agencies, corporations, and public figures. Every job is handled with 100 percent confidentiality and privacy.
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Phone: 1300 444 800