Samsung Galaxy S4 Active was announced back in June, according to Samsung the handset has qualified for protection to the IP67 standard.
Now an AT&T employee has revealed that the Samsung Galaxy S4 Active may not be fully water resistant, and also that the warranty for the handset does not actually cover water damage. Have a look at the section from the handset’s warranty below.
This Limited Warranty does not cover: (a) defects or damage resulting from accident, misuse, abnormal use, abnormal conditions, improper storage, exposure to liquid, moisture, dampness, sand or dirt, neglect, or unusual physical, electrical or electromechanical stress […].
Understanding IP67 Standard
The IP67 standard is a certification that indicates a device is dust-tight and can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. This rating is often used to market devices as rugged and suitable for outdoor use. However, the real-world application of this standard can vary. For instance, the effectiveness of the water resistance can be compromised if the device’s seals are not properly maintained or if the device is exposed to water pressure beyond its rated capacity.
There seems to be some sort of issue with the USB door on the Samsung Galaxy S4 Active, you can see more details over at the XDA developers forum. Users have reported that the USB door, which is crucial for maintaining the device’s water resistance, can sometimes fail to seal properly. This can lead to water ingress, which would explain why the warranty does not cover water damage despite the IP67 rating.
Consumer Concerns and Manufacturer Responsibility
What is interesting is that Samsung’s warranty states that the handset is not covered by exposure to liquid, but the device is advertised as conforming to the IP67 standard. This discrepancy raises questions about the reliability of such certifications and the responsibility of manufacturers to ensure their products meet advertised standards. Consumers who purchase a device with the expectation of water resistance may feel misled if the warranty does not cover water damage.
It will be interesting to see what Samsung has to say about this. The company has a reputation for producing high-quality devices, and any issues with the Galaxy S4 Active could impact consumer trust. As soon as we get some more information, we will let you guys know.
In the meantime, it is advisable for users of the Samsung Galaxy S4 Active to take extra precautions when exposing their device to water. Ensuring that all ports and seals are properly closed before any exposure to water can help mitigate the risk of damage. Additionally, users should be aware of the limitations of the IP67 rating and not assume that it makes the device invulnerable to all forms of water exposure.
Source Sammobile
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