A closer look at the Kyocera Hydro Life
Check out this rugged, water-resistant Android GSM phone from Kyocera.
Sarah Mitroff
Hello, Hydro
The newest addition to Kyocera's Hydro line, the Hydro Life is an Android smartphone that's water resistant and rugged. It'll cost you $150 off-contract prepaid from T-Mobile or MetroPCS.
Splish-splash
The phone has an IP57 rating, meaning it can survive under 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes before getting waterlogged. It's also dustproof.
Tough as nails
The Hydro Life also is also military-rated for toughness, and it can handle multiple drops without damage.
To the back
There's a 5-megapixel camera on the back that shoots so-so photos.
Battery seal
The back cover acts as a seal to keep water away from fragile components, including the battery, SD card and SIM card slots. It has a soft textured finish.
Compact size
The Hydro Life is thick, but it's also small, making it easy to hold and easy to slip into your pockets.
Android 4.3
The phone is running Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, and comes with a few Kyocera features, such as a battery-saver app called Eco Mode.
Volume controls
Along the left edge is the phone's volume rocker.
Ports and buttons
The headphone jack is at the top, along with the power/lock button.