Waterproof Phones Not Covered by Warranty After Water Damage: Who Is Responsible?

Waterproof Phones Not Covered by Warranty After Water Damage: Who Is Responsible?The Weibo hashtag "Waterproof Phones Not Covered by Warranty After Water Damage" has sparked heated discussion recently. The controversy emerged because Apple was accused of promoting the waterproof features of iPhones in their advertisements, but excluding water damage from their warranty coverage

Waterproof Phones Not Covered by Warranty After Water Damage: Who Is Responsible?

The Weibo hashtag "Waterproof Phones Not Covered by Warranty After Water Damage" has sparked heated discussion recently. The controversy emerged because Apple was accused of promoting the waterproof features of iPhones in their advertisements, but excluding water damage from their warranty coverage. Lawyer Joey Zukran filed a lawsuit against Apple, arguing that the company misled consumers and violated contract law.

Following the incident, Wang Teng, Vice President of Xiaomi Group, took to Weibo to emphasize that it's an industry standard to offer waterproof functionality but exclude water damage from warranties. He stressed that the Redmi Note 14 series continues to support IP68 certification and expressed confidence in their water resistance.

So, why are supposedly waterproof phones not covered by warranty after water damage? What exactly is the industry standard, and how can consumers protect their rights?

"Waterproof" "Water-Proof"

Waterproof features in smartphones are mainly achieved through these mechanisms:

• Unitary molding: This process minimizes gaps in the phone's body, reducing the risk of water ingress.

• Waterproof pressure-sensitive adhesives and sealing rings: These materials effectively prevent water from entering the phone's interior.

• Nano-hydrophobic coating: This coating prevents water droplets from penetrating the circuit board.

• Waterproof pressure-release film: Used for acoustic components to enable ventilation, pressure release, and sound transmission.

Although phone manufacturers incorporate various waterproof measures during design and production, these measures are not foolproof and cannot guarantee complete waterproof protection under all circumstances. For instance, water might still enter the phone and cause damage if exposed to excessive water pressure or prolonged immersion.

Moreover, the waterproof features of a phone are not permanent. Daily use can lead to aging, damage, or breakage of sealing rings, compromising water resistance. Therefore, even if a phone boasts IP68 dust and water resistance, it doesn't ensure complete waterproofing in all situations.

Industry Standard: Who Sets the Rules?

Wang Teng's claim that "it's an industry standard to offer waterproof functionality but exclude water damage from warranties" holds some truth.

Currently, most phone manufacturers exclude "damage caused by water ingress" from their warranty coverage. This is because it's difficult to determine the specific cause of damage after a phone gets wet, and it's impossible to confirm whether it was due to user error. To avoid warranty disputes, manufacturers often classify water damage as "user-induced damage" and refuse warranty coverage.

However, some consumers believe that phone manufacturers mislead consumers by highlighting waterproof features in advertisements but excluding water damage from warranty coverage. They argue that if phone manufacturers promote waterproofing, they should shoulder the corresponding responsibility.

How Can Consumers Protect Their Rights?

How can consumers safeguard their rights and avoid the predicament of "waterproof phones not covered by warranty after water damage"?

• Use with caution: After purchasing a phone, carefully read the user manual to understand its waterproof rating and usage limitations. Avoid taking the phone into environments where the water depth exceeds the limits, and refrain from prolonged immersion.

• Regular inspection: Regularly inspect the phone's sealing rings and waterproof adhesives to ensure they are intact. If any damage is detected, promptly repair or replace them.

• Purchase accident insurance: To mitigate potential financial losses, consider purchasing phone accident insurance, which provides compensation for accidental damage such as water ingress.

• Rational redress: If a phone is denied warranty coverage due to water damage, pursue rational redress by filing a complaint with the retailer or brand. Preserve relevant evidence, such as purchase receipts and repair records.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding "waterproof phones not covered by warranty after water damage" reflects the discrepancy between consumer understanding and the actual situation regarding phone waterproofing. Phone manufacturers need to be more transparent about their waterproof features and establish reasonable warranty policies to avoid consumer misunderstandings. Consumers should also approach phone waterproofing rationally, avoid overreliance, and practice proper maintenance to reduce risks.