Australia claims Samsung misled consumers about water resistance
posted Saturday Jul 6, 2019 by Scott Ertz
Starting with the release of the Galaxy S7 in 2016, Samsung has produced all of its flagship phones with an IP68 water-resistance rating. This rating means that the device can survive for 30 minutes or less underwater at depths no more than 1.5 meters. As part of this addition, the company has featured the capability in its advertising, both online and on television. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) claims that the advertising has misled consumers on the reality of the phone's water response. According to ACCC Chair Rod Sims,
The ACCC alleges Samsung's advertisements falsely and misleadingly represented Galaxy phones would be suitable for use in, or for exposure to, all types of water, including in ocean water and swimming pools, and would not be affected by such exposure to water for the life of the phone, when this was not the case.
According to the claim, in many of the advertisements, Samsung featured people using their phones at the beach and in swimming pools, suggesting that the phone would be safe in these environments. Unfortunately, IP68 only applies to freshwater, not saltwater or chlorinated water, such as in pools. The commission claims that Samsung has rejected warranty claims because of water damage, and notes on its website that the phone is only rated for freshwater.
Samsung recognizes the complaint and plans to fight it in court. According to a statement,
Samsung stands by its marketing and advertising of the water resistancy of its smartphones. We are also confident that we provide customers with free-of-charge remedies in a manner consistent with Samsung's obligations under its manufacturer warranty and the Australian Consumer Law. Customer satisfaction is a top priority for Samsung and we are committed to acting in the best interest of our customers.
There is no timeline for the case, but it would appear that Samsung is not going to let the accusation stand. The company has had enough negative publicity in the past year, especially with the Galaxy Fold failures, and cannot afford additional controversy.
