We’ve seen a number of waterproof cases for the iPhone and iPad, and we’d suggest to users of those devices to seriously consider such aftermarket products. This week it was reported that Apple has gotten patent approval for a water-damage detection system. The patent reads:
”Water exposure is among major reasons that may cause significant malfunction of devices, such as electronic devices, which include electronic, mechanical, or chemical components. Therefore, verification of significant water exposure is important to manufacturers of the devices. For example, for purposes such as warranty claim assessment, trouble-shooting for repairs, and product development, a manufacturer of electronic devices typically needs to verify whether a malfunctioning device has been immersed in water.”
In other words the company is going to know if that iPhone was dropped in a river or pool (or for that matter toilet). So if you’re using the handset as an adventure camera be sure to have it covered up, because it looks like Apple is going to make it hard to warranty water-damaged devices.