How reliable are LCIs in detecting water damage

Pros of LCIs:

1. Quick Indicator: The search results indicate that LCIs can quickly change color from white/silver to red when exposed to water or other liquids. This provides a fast visual cue of potential water damage.

2. Standard Feature: LCIs are a standard feature included in all iPhones, making it a consistent way to check for water exposure across different models.

Limitations of LCIs:

1. False Positives: The search results mention that LCIs can sometimes result in "false positives", where the indicator turns red even when there is no actual water damage. This can lead to unnecessary repairs or replacements.

2. Lack of Granularity: LCIs only provide a binary indication of water exposure - either white/silver (no exposure) or red (exposure). They don't provide any details on the extent or duration of water contact.

3. Removal in Newer Models: The search results note that starting with the iPhone 14 series in the US, the external LCI has been removed, reducing the ability to visually inspect for water damage.

4. Limitations on Liquid Types: LCIs are designed to detect water, but may not reliably indicate exposure to other liquids like coffee, soda, or chemicals that could also damage the phone.

The search results suggest that while LCIs can be a useful first step in identifying potential water damage, they have limitations in terms of accuracy and granularity. Apple is reportedly exploring more advanced water damage detection methods using circuitry and sensors, which could provide more reliable and detailed assessments in the future.

Overall, the LCI is a helpful but imperfect tool, and should be considered alongside other visual and functional inspections when determining if an iPhone has suffered water damage.