'Waterproof' phone makers put on notice by consumer watchdog

By Tim Biggs
Updated September 7 2015 - 10:13am, first published September 1 2015 - 2:44pm
Images and ratings systems can give the impression that smartphones are impervious to water, but the reality is more complicated. Photo: Sony
Images and ratings systems can give the impression that smartphones are impervious to water, but the reality is more complicated. Photo: Sony
Rod Sims says the ACCC will be watching to make sure any future representations that are made about waterproof phones are accurate. Photo: Bradley Kanaris
Rod Sims says the ACCC will be watching to make sure any future representations that are made about waterproof phones are accurate. Photo: Bradley Kanaris
In this promotional shot the Xperia M4 Aqua is used in fresh water, which Sony says will not harm the device at all provided its rubber seals are firmly shut. Photo: Sony
In this promotional shot the Xperia M4 Aqua is used in fresh water, which Sony says will not harm the device at all provided its rubber seals are firmly shut. Photo: Sony
The dust protection of this Xperia Z2 means no fine sand will get in, but if you let it touch the salty seawater you could immediately void your warranty. Photo: YouTube / Sony
The dust protection of this Xperia Z2 means no fine sand will get in, but if you let it touch the salty seawater you could immediately void your warranty. Photo: YouTube / Sony

Claims of "waterproof" phones by smartphone makers have been singled out by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission as an area of concern, as consumers continue to complain that their devices stop working after using them in the pool.

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