The iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus have just been launched by Apple a couple of days ago. Pre-ordering for the new devices is set to start September 9 and the release is expected to start September 16. In light of the upcoming pre-orders, there is one thing that should be clarified regarding the devices' waterproof build and warranty coverage.
iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus Waterproof Capabilities
Apple was excited to announce that their 2016 flagship phones are both water resistant, giving users peace of mind in their daily activities. Furthermore, the company also specified what the devices can do when it comes to liquid contact.
As per a GSMarena post, the company mentioned in their keynote that both the iPhone 7 and the iPhone 7 Plus are splash, water and dust resistant. The devices were also tested and got an IP67 certification under IEC standard 60529.
However, Apple seems to be suggesting that the dust and water resistant build of the phones are not permanent, and that both capabilities are subject to diminish in quality with continuous usage.
iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus Warranty
In addition to Apple's explanation about the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus' waterproof build, the company also mentioned that users should not charge the devices when wet. According to the text on the phones' specs page, users are advised to refer to the user guide for proper drying and cleaning of the devices. (Refer to Apple's iPhone 7 specs page for the full guidelines.)
What is most striking about the keynote though is that the company clarified that liquid damage is not covered in the devices' warranty. However, Apple's decision to remove water damage from the coverage isn't exactly a first time for manufacturers to do. Sony has also denied coverage for submerged devices.
Needless to say, Apple may not exactly be unreasonable for denying water related coverage. Despite the smartphones' water-resistant bodies, users are still expected to take extra measures in making sure the iPhone 7 devices aren't put at risk.