Database Develop

A Warning to ALL GALAXY S4 ACTIVE USERS!!!!

This phone is not truly waterproof/resistant!!!!!
First off I want to start this off buy saying a few things. I work for AT&T so before anyone says its from improper usage remember I had to watch training videos on how to properly use it. Also, before anyone says well, you aren't really supposed to be using it in the water, you are wrong. The first thing we are trained on is how to properly close the back cover and how to show the customers Aqua mode to take pictures underwater. We actively use this as a main selling point, this is per Samsung.
Here is my story. I bought the Active on Thursday. The first thing I did with it was ensure the back was closed and made a video in my fish tank so I could show customers how it works underwater, and how good aqua mode is. That worked out perfectly except the video was a little dark, so I figured I would retake it.
In this time I had a customer swap out the phone they bought because it were defective, the bottom buttons stopped working on it. She was very vague when the water question came up but I thought nothing of it.
Now cue today. It was sunny outside so I thought it was the perfect time to reshoot the fish tank video. I ensured the back was secure, yes, including pressing down on the back where the AT&T logo is. I then submerged the phone in the tank while taking the video. Almost instantly the phone screen went black and said dock mode was enabled so I took the phone out of the water and everything went back to normal. I double checked the USB rubber to be sure. I just chalked it up to the phone doing crazy things in the water. I have read almost everywhere that the phone will say headphones are plugged in, etc. So I thought this was normal. I then put it back in and took a minute long video. Everything was fine. I even played back the video and it was fully working.
This is where everything went wrong. About 2 minutes later the phone started tweaking out, Google now opened on its own and the buttons were really sensitive. Then the buttons completely stopped working other than the power button and that's when I freaked out. I opened the battery cover and there it was, everything was soaked. but luckily none of the water damage indicators were colored. I then opened the USB door and it was like a fountain, so that's where the breach happened. The flimsy, rubber USB door. I did not tell a soul what happened and went back to work and swapped it for a regular Galaxy S4.
So please listen to my warning. There are way too many people getting this phone damaged, including me, a fully trained AT&T employee who took the proper precautions before doing anything.
Samsung should not be able to get away with calling this phone water resistant or water proof, and they should especially not include an Aqua Camera mode.
Also the warranty DOES NOT, I REPEAT, DOES NOT COVER WATER!!!!

I think it depends really, i understand where you are coming from, and you shouldnt trust it, but my friend was pushed in the pool with his and it survived without a issue

I've kept mine in my pocket and went for a swim in the pool. Worked fine after wiping it with a towel. You might have had a defective unit...
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I537 using Tapatalk 2

As an AT&T employee maybe you'll know the procedure for this..
I've read all the horror stories relating to the S4A, and there's been a few of them.. Is the fact that the device seems to fail often enough of a reason to exchange for a regular S4? I'm not within my 14 days anymore :/.I opted for this over S4 just because of the water resistance.

starxgamingx said:
I think it depends really, i understand where you are coming from, and you shouldnt trust it, but my friend was pushed in the pool with his and it survived without a issue
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And I understand that I may have a defective unit, but I have read 3 separate reviews where the reviewer damaged their first phone. There is also a thread on XDA where a bunch of people state that they damaged their phone. This in itself either says that the phone doesn't work as advertised or there are way too many defective units out there for anyone to be safe to try the water and Samsung needs to know this.

daledenton said:
And I understand that I may have a defective unit, but I have read 3 separate reviews where the reviewer damaged their first phone. There is also a thread on XDA where a bunch of people state that they damaged their phone. This in itself either says that the phone doesn't work as advertised or there are way too many defective units out there for anyone to be safe to try the water and Samsung needs to know this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe its the other way around and my friend got a defective one thats actually waterproof

now i fell terribly sorry for who went with those ugly buttons instead of S4

Blackwolf10 said:
now i fell terribly sorry for who went with those ugly buttons instead of S4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Eh... I like the buttons...

The bottom line is that Samsung doesn't warranty the phone against water damage and therefor should Never sell it as such. If they can not stand behind an advertised function of their own product, they should not sell it. It doesn't matter if people abuse the phone in water or exceed the recommended specs (depth and length of time in water) because there is no way they can differentiate between people that stay within the specs and those that don't.

All I gotta say is the best way to get away with saying it is water resistance/proof would be making it like the Nexus 4 and no removable back. Make it wireless charging. Come with a wireless charger. Sd card slot and sim slot on the top or sides. Make it completely blocked off with no ports but a headphone hack the way they did making it water proof. That's the only way they can be certain its water resistant. Otherwise you have these issues.
Sent from my SGH-I337 using Tapatalk 2

Yeah, I have a feeling all of these water-related failures are going to kill the S4A early. Eventually, the threat of a class action lawsuit will cause them to trigger an EOL.
I suspect this will happen sooner rather than later, since showing it dunked in water in all the commercials, but not covering water damage is just screaming "class action."
My crystal ball says that within a year, you'll see AT&T (at least) offering to waive ETF for owners of S4A units damaged by water. This may be under the terms of a Class Action, or to avoid one... but in the end, that will probably be the end of the S4A story.

daledenton said:
This phone is not truly waterproof/resistant!!!!!
First off I want to start this off buy saying a few things. I work for AT&T so before anyone says its from improper usage remember I had to watch training videos on how to properly use it. Also, before anyone says well, you aren't really supposed to be using it in the water, you are wrong. The first thing we are trained on is how to properly close the back cover and how to show the customers Aqua mode to take pictures underwater. We actively use this as a main selling point, this is per Samsung.
Here is my story. I bought the Active on Thursday. The first thing I did with it was ensure the back was closed and made a video in my fish tank so I could show customers how it works underwater, and how good aqua mode is. That worked out perfectly except the video was a little dark, so I figured I would retake it.
In this time I had a customer swap out the phone they bought because it were defective, the bottom buttons stopped working on it. She was very vague when the water question came up but I thought nothing of it.
Now cue today. It was sunny outside so I thought it was the perfect time to reshoot the fish tank video. I ensured the back was secure, yes, including pressing down on the back where the AT&T logo is. I then submerged the phone in the tank while taking the video. Almost instantly the phone screen went black and said dock mode was enabled so I took the phone out of the water and everything went back to normal. I double checked the USB rubber to be sure. I just chalked it up to the phone doing crazy things in the water. I have read almost everywhere that the phone will say headphones are plugged in, etc. So I thought this was normal. I then put it back in and took a minute long video. Everything was fine. I even played back the video and it was fully working.
This is where everything went wrong. About 2 minutes later the phone started tweaking out, Google now opened on its own and the buttons were really sensitive. Then the buttons completely stopped working other than the power button and that's when I freaked out. I opened the battery cover and there it was, everything was soaked. but luckily none of the water damage indicators were colored. I then opened the USB door and it was like a fountain, so that's where the breach happened. The flimsy, rubber USB door. I did not tell a soul what happened and went back to work and swapped it for a regular Galaxy S4.
So please listen to my warning. There are way too many people getting this phone damaged, including me, a fully trained AT&T employee who took the proper precautions before doing anything.
Samsung should not be able to get away with calling this phone water resistant or water proof, and they should especially not include an Aqua Camera mode.
Also the warranty DOES NOT, I REPEAT, DOES NOT COVER WATER!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A simple solution to find out if your phone is waterproof... Turn the phone off and remove the battery, then close everything and put it in water for a few minutes. Take the phone out of the water and check to see if water got in the charging port and/or past the seal on the back. If it did get water in the device put your phone in rice for a day and return it for a working unit. If you didn't you should be fine.
If no power is going to your device it cannot short circuit. After the water is gone you can turn it on with no issues
jt3 said:
Yeah, I have a feeling all of these water-related failures are going to kill the S4A early. Eventually, the threat of a class action lawsuit will cause them to trigger an EOL.
I suspect this will happen sooner rather than later, since showing it dunked in water in all the commercials, but not covering water damage is just screaming "class action."
My crystal ball says that within a year, you'll see AT&T (at least) offering to waive ETF for owners of S4A units damaged by water. This may be under the terms of a Class Action, or to avoid one... but in the end, that will probably be the end of the S4A story.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Or maybe a recall?

Blackwolf10 said:
now i fell terribly sorry for who went with those ugly buttons instead of S4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
as an owner of Galaxy S2, S3, Nexus and HTC One i have to say then Samsung products are inferior to any other manufacture,
HTC is NOT as important manufacture as Samsung but their devices are way better that Samsungs
as for water proofing Galaxy S4 Active was a clear copy of Xperia Z, since Samsung could NOT make every GS4 waterproof like SONY they made another phone and judging by experience SONY clearly made the better waterproofing,
i was in the swimming pool that day and there was Xperia Z's on the bottom of the pool (~1 to 2 meters) with NO damage,
---------- Post added at 05:09 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:07 PM ----------
joshuadjohnson22 said:
A simple solution to find out if your phone is waterproof... Turn the phone off and remove the battery, then close everything and put it in water for a few minutes. Take the phone out of the water and check to see if water got in the charging port and/or past the seal on the back. If it did get water in the device put your phone in rice for a day and return it for a working unit. If you didn't you should be fine.
If no power is going to your device it cannot short circuit. After the water is gone you can turn it on with no issues
Or maybe a recall?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"If no power is going to your device it cannot short circuit"
every phone has a small battery on its PCB to keep time and date if your battery drained or removed.
so a short circuit is a possibility.

Muhammad.Muayad said:
as an owner of Galaxy S2, S3, Nexus and HTC One i have to say then Samsung products are inferior to any other manufacture,
HTC is NOT as important manufacture as Samsung but their devices are way better that Samsungs
as for water proofing Galaxy S4 Active was a clear copy of Xperia Z, since Samsung could NOT make every GS4 waterproof like SONY they made another phone and judging by experience SONY clearly made the better waterproofing,
i was in the swimming pool that day and there was Xperia Z's on the bottom of the pool (~1 to 2 meters) with NO damage,
---------- Post added at 05:09 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:07 PM ----------
"If no power is going to your device it cannot short circuit"
every phone has a small battery on its PCB to keep time and date if your battery drained or removed.
so a short circuit is a possibility.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hmmm ok, never heard of that
Either way when I tried the method I posted no water got in. Still don't think I will put it in water while it is turned on

My first shot in water:
lh4.googleusercontent.com/-uF_HK-cQ5z0/Ue6J9C7REAI/AAAAAAAA0qQ/JCQFdoDu13U/s512/20130723_164222.jpg
(from kayak, i did keep phone in hand and lower it about 10cm deep in water)
After that pic, noticed water in display, rear camera, front camera, some buttons did not work, etc etc nice.
Rear cam:
lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mrqiqTMzr_g/Ue6gKop2DlI/AAAAAAAA0tE/upYGQ_7dNW0/s512/20130723_182343.jpg
Front cam:
lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UxFnzttB8CE/Ue7CqjautfI/AAAAAAAA0vU/cpK5ekAPZGo/s512/20130723_205132.jpg
lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hRvVQXcYqG4/Ue7x3qZSg7I/AAAAAAAA0xI/p4LqZri94bs/s512/IMG_20130723_234953.jpg
Display:
lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wBqoctoGIlg/Ue7x1BM3-CI/AAAAAAAA0w8/il7jeX2rodk/s640/IMG_20130723_234922.jpg
And yes, usb cover was sealed and also battery cover.
I went to local service point in last week, today they called to pick my device up:
lh4.googleusercontent.com/-w-LRCCJJHYM/UfZhBjNfcFI/AAAAAAAA1Dk/W70ZmxcePhA/s512/IMG_20130729_153151.jpg
Battery is old, everything else is new.
edit: btw, sorry for links, add h t t p : / /

jesi said:
My first shot in water:
lh4.googleusercontent.com/-uF_HK-cQ5z0/Ue6J9C7REAI/AAAAAAAA0qQ/JCQFdoDu13U/s512/20130723_164222.jpg
(from kayak, i did keep phone in hand and lower it about 10cm deep in water)
After that pic, noticed water in display, rear camera, front camera, some buttons did not work, etc etc nice.
Rear cam:
lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mrqiqTMzr_g/Ue6gKop2DlI/AAAAAAAA0tE/upYGQ_7dNW0/s512/20130723_182343.jpg
Front cam:
lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UxFnzttB8CE/Ue7CqjautfI/AAAAAAAA0vU/cpK5ekAPZGo/s512/20130723_205132.jpg
lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hRvVQXcYqG4/Ue7x3qZSg7I/AAAAAAAA0xI/p4LqZri94bs/s512/IMG_20130723_234953.jpg
Display:
lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wBqoctoGIlg/Ue7x1BM3-CI/AAAAAAAA0w8/il7jeX2rodk/s640/IMG_20130723_234922.jpg
And yes, usb cover was sealed and also battery cover.
I went to local service point in last week, today they called to pick my device up:
lh4.googleusercontent.com/-w-LRCCJJHYM/UfZhBjNfcFI/AAAAAAAA1Dk/W70ZmxcePhA/s512/IMG_20130729_153151.jpg
Battery is old, everything else is new.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm guessing this was not AT&T? The sticker on the screen is different

joshuadjohnson22 said:
I'm guessing this was not AT&T? The sticker on the screen is different
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, no AT&T.

joshuadjohnson22 said:
Or maybe a recall?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Remember, most people with this phone have entered into a 2-year contract. Simply recalling the phone wouldn't work. They'd either have to replace it with an equivalent model or waive the ETF. The problem with the former is that they've advertised the heck out of its water resistance, selling it as "everything proof." If they were to, say, replace it with a standard S4, the consumer would have a very real argument that it's not an equivalent model, which would be ANOTHER basis for a class action.
Also, remember, recalls are done by a manufacturer. AT&T isn't going to recall a Samsung device. Samsung would have to do that. A recall would only really work if Samsung offered another phone (like an S4), AND made a deal with AT&T, compensating them to waive the ETF if the consumer didn't want that phone. This may happen, but before it does, the remaining stock would be pulled from the shelves, and the phone would be EOL.
Again, I think that marketing this phone as waterproof, but not standing behind that marketing, is eventually going to lead to a class action. A class action, or the threat of one, will result in an early death for this device. I agree with what was said before though... I don't think we'll be seeing many more phones claiming water resistance. Those that do, will be sealed, and certainly won't have removable backs.

jt3 said:
Remember, most people with this phone have entered into a 2-year contract. Simply recalling the phone wouldn't work. They'd either have to replace it with an equivalent model or waive the ETF. The problem with the former is that they've advertised the heck out of its water resistance, selling it as "everything proof." If they were to, say, replace it with a standard S4, the consumer would have a very real argument that it's not an equivalent model, which would be ANOTHER basis for a class action.
Also, remember, recalls are done by a manufacturer. AT&T isn't going to recall a Samsung device. Samsung would have to do that. A recall would only really work if Samsung offered another phone (like an S4), AND made a deal with AT&T, compensating them to waive the ETF if the consumer didn't want that phone. This may happen, but before it does, the remaining stock would be pulled from the shelves, and the phone would be EOL.
Again, I think that marketing this phone as waterproof, but not standing behind that marketing, is eventually going to lead to a class action. A class action, or the threat of one, will result in an early death for this device. I agree with what was said before though... I don't think we'll be seeing many more phones claiming water resistance. Those that do, will be sealed, and certainly won't have removable backs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah... saying a phone is "everything proof" and water proof is pretty stupid.. Honestly I think AT&T and Samsung could fix this in my mind just by warranty replacing water damaged S4 Actives. If they replace them in the event of water damage then we all will be happy. It doesn't happen to every unit, most users are fine in the water, but still a high percentage.
I for one love my active and the water proof was just a bonus, but I wouldn't mind them giving me my upgrade back

joshuadjohnson22 said:
Yeah... saying a phone is "everything proof" and water proof is pretty stupid.. Honestly I think AT&T and Samsung could fix this in my mind just by warranty replacing water damaged S4 Actives. If they replace them in the event of water damage then we all will be happy. It doesn't happen to every unit, most users are fine in the water, but still a high percentage.
I for one love my active and the water proof was just a bonus, but I wouldn't mind them giving me my upgrade back
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"water-resistant.” As Samsung points out in the device’s manual, the S4 Active is rated IP67, which means that it’s resistant to water only up to depths of a little over three feet , its not water proof .

[Q] That's it, water inside. Where can I get new flaps?

Hello folks,
I own a Xperia Z since its release, but only recently I bought a dock and a bluetooth headset. Before that, all the time I was opening ang closing the flaps that protect the phone from water. I knew that was not good for those little isolating rubbers attached to the flap, which do the job, but I thought they would take longer to break. Both sim and sd card ports are like new, but the micro usb port and the 3,5mm jack port are damaged, and the water indicator is red =\
Where can I buy new flaps? I want to replace the damaged ones for new ones.
I bought this phone in a travel to USA, because in Brazil it was not lauched, so I can't get the flaps in some Sony repair centre.
thanks

Please, help. I really need a new headphone flap.

Have you tried Ebay, pal?

DrKrFfXx said:
Have you tried Ebay, pal?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes brother, no one found.

paulinodf said:
Yes brother, no one found.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
try either just googling it to see if some online distributor has miscellaneous parts for sale, or check a local cell phone store to see if they have some wrecked one you could buy parts off of

I take it you're replacing the flaps so that you can get service you are not entitled to? There really is no other reason to replace the flaps...

Rekoil said:
I take it you're replacing the flaps so that you can get service you are not entitled to? There really is no other reason to replace the flaps...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The OP didn't say the phone was damaged, only that the water ingress indicators were red.
Perhaps they want to replace the flaps simply to prevent more water from entering and actually damaging the phone.
Sent from my C6603 using Tapatalk 2

kingvortex said:
The OP didn't say the phone was damaged, only that the water ingress indicators were red.
Perhaps they want to replace the flaps simply to prevent more water from entering and actually damaging the phone.
Sent from my C6603 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's actually a pretty good point hehe. Sorry for jumping to conclusions OP!

The phone is not damaged really... Some water did get inside it, but nothing a night in the rice couldn't handle. It's working fine now... but not water resistant anymore. The little rubbers on the usb and headphone flaps are damaged, so the indicator is red (I don't think they can go white again). I'm using a dock and a bluetooth set now, but it's too late. I want to buy new flaps and replace them myself, that's it.
And no, I couldn't find any yet =[

http://www.etradesupply.com/sony/all-models/sony-xperia-z-l36h.html?p=2

Are you sure it's the flaps and not the back plate?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2304680

New flaps coming with the new housing, and new housing coming with a new LCD+Touch unit wont be cheap pal.
No point to get new housing alone as you going to crack your lcd anyway when you take the battery out.
For you if you really want to change flaps need to get: a parts only unit.

donottouch said:
New flaps coming with the new housing, and new housing coming with a new LCD+Touch unit wont be cheap pal.
No point to get new housing alone as you going to crack your lcd anyway when you take the battery out.
For you if you really want to change flaps need to get: a parts only unit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I changed just my SIM flap I have to check the site I bought them off when I get home but there sold and can be changed without taking the housing apart so please don't scare people with UN true stuff
Sent from my C6603 using xda premium
---------- Post added at 04:55 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:46 PM ----------
As a matter of fact I see someone already posted a link you can get all four on etrade for like ten bucks and there's a whole thread about this plus YouTube videos again open easily and cheaply replaced without part phones and housings
Sent from my C6603 using xda premium

paulinodf said:
The phone is not damaged really... Some water did get inside it, but nothing a night in the rice couldn't handle. It's working fine now... but not water resistant anymore. The little rubbers on the usb and headphone flaps are damaged, so the indicator is red (I don't think they can go white again). I'm using a dock and a bluetooth set now, but it's too late. I want to buy new flaps and replace them myself, that's it.
And no, I couldn't find any yet =[
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're right they cannot turn white again (at least not on their own), they turn red as a result of a chemical reaction with the hydrogen(?) in the water.

Jonathan2677 said:
I changed just my SIM flap I have to check the site I bought them off when I get home but there sold and can be changed without taking the housing apart so please don't scare people with UN true stuff
Sent from my C6603 using xda premium
---------- Post added at 04:55 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:46 PM ----------
As a matter of fact I see someone already posted a link you can get all four on etrade for like ten bucks and there's a whole thread about this plus YouTube videos again open easily and cheaply replaced without part phones and housings
Sent from my C6603 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
About youtube the guy broke the lcd and with his tool scratched the ribbon,which likely makes the audio not working.
Sorry I'm not scaring, I used to do that almost every day... If an small piece of the original flap's white joint still inside, there is no way you can close it properly even if you stuff the new in, because it will be on the way. You need to dismantle the unit to get the broken piece out. there is no spare room inside. At work when we have an xpz with battery change we just order a new LCD+Full housing with it then remove battery and mainboard than fit it in the new housing with a new battery because the Battery 90-95% cracks the LCD when we pull it out. To remove the mainboard we need to take the battery out.The LCD just 2mm thick not even a frame on it, and the battery is glued onto the LCD with a strong glue. That's why when you drop your phone your lcd breaks, not because is a piece of glass rather because the battery breaks it. Consider this i just want to help, not scare. Top of that you not supposed to know any of this info. I only know because i been trained to do it, by a sony tech, as i working in an official service provider for EE.

donottouch said:
About youtube the guy broke the lcd and with his tool scratched the ribbon,which likely makes the audio not working.
Sorry I'm not scaring, I used to do that almost every day... If an small piece of the original flap's white joint still inside, there is no way you can close it properly even if you stuff the new in, because it will be on the way. You need to dismantle the unit to get the broken piece out. there is no spare room inside. At work when we have an xpz with battery change we just order a new LCD+Full housing with it then remove battery and mainboard than fit it in the new housing with a new battery because the Battery 90-95% cracks the LCD when we pull it out. To remove the mainboard we need to take the battery out.The LCD just 2mm thick not even a frame on it, and the battery is glued onto the LCD with a strong glue. That's why when you drop your phone your lcd breaks, not because is a piece of glass rather because the battery breaks it. Consider this i just want to help, not scare. Top of that you not supposed to know any of this info. I only know because i been trained to do it, by a sony tech, as i working in an official service provider for EE.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No I understand but there changeable without breaking a piece inside I did it plus there's a thread I just popped out my SIM one now because I have a full set,I'm gonna get my girl to record as I do the micro sd one and post it on here you can change them without taking apart the phone or breaking anything or leaving a piece behind I'm not the only one who's done it,There's other people on here also I'm sure if a piece does break then I'm screwed but I've been careful and had no problems
Sent from my C6603 using xda premium

Ok. No worries than. Good luck. Personally I using an MW600 bt and a DK26 charging dock to free of this problems. And opening the ports only when needed. The SIM tray is a mess, too difficult for Sony to use a trayless design. Bah.
Sent from my C6603

donottouch said:
Ok. No worries than. Good luck. Personally I using an MW600 bt and a DK26 charging dock to free of this problems. And opening the ports only when needed. The SIM tray is a mess, too difficult for Sony to use a trayless design. Bah.
Sent from my C6603
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Totally agreed and the best way is to use dock and Bluetooth earphones I'm gonna start doing that now that my flaps are new,and thanks for the advice I know you were trying to help,I was just saying it's possible without disassembly if lucky now if a piece breaks I'm screwed again thanks
Sent from my C6603 using xda premium

Thank you for the info, guys.
I eventually found new flaps on rounded.com and I'm gonna order two today.
Until they arrive, I'll try to learn how to replace them myself...
Here, it can be useful to someone:
http://rounded.com/sony-xperia-z-l36h-micro-usb-cover-black.html
http://rounded.com/sony-xperia-z-l36h-headphone-cover-black.html
See you on the road

paulinodf said:
Thank you for the info, guys.
I eventually found new flaps on rounded.com and I'm gonna order two today.
Until they arrive, I'll try to learn how to replace them myself...
Here, it can be useful to someone:
http://rounded.com/sony-xperia-z-l36h-micro-usb-cover-black.html
http://rounded.com/sony-xperia-z-l36h-headphone-cover-black.html
See you on the road
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just take your time you'll be fine, most important to get full white strap out,also I realize u only needed those two but the link on the first page sells all four for like $11
Sent from my C6603 using xda premium

Flappy charging port cover

I'm not sure if anyone is aware, but the flappy charging port cover is just dust protection cover, it provides no waterproofing. I cut mine off months ago it's very annoying. It does not affect the phone's ability to survive 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.
My phone see's water daily in the shower or going wakesurfing. Still working like brand new since day 1!

I don't know that I'd be willing to risk it. How can something possibly prevent water from entering, but allow dust in? Even if the port is sealed off from the rest of the device (like the headphone port), you have to consider that you are introducing electricity into the environment. Any amount of residual water can and will cause a short.

my-blue-snog-box said:
I don't know that I'd be willing to risk it. How can something possibly prevent water from entering, but allow dust in? Even if the port is sealed off from the rest of the device (like the headphone port), you have to consider that you are introducing electricity into the environment. Any amount of residual water can and will cause a short.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It makes sense. Sealing it off to prevent water intrusion w/o the flap seems pretty easy, but to make the port dust proof you'd need the flap (the innards of the phone would be water/dust proof behind the connection port, the flap would be to keep the dust out of the port only)
I won't try it but if you're saying it works for you I'll feel a little better when the wife's port cover rips off...

That's good to know, mine's been getting looser and looser and I've been more worried to go near water since it isn't feeling so tight anymore!

Keep in mind that if you have at&t, this should be covered under the 1 year warranty. You may have to argue a bit with the rep, but I got mine replaced when it pulled off.

As a fixer, I decided to test this theory. My friend's two year old ripped her charge port cover off and wanted me to fix it. I've been looking for the past day, and haven't found anything that is a direct replacement, just filler pieces for generic micro-USB or for the S3 ports (same thing, really).
So I took the phone apart so I could see the inside, and I, using electrical contact cleaner spray so I don't break the phone, barely pulled the trigger so it would dribble down into the port instead of blast everywhere. Well, I saw contact cleaner on the inside of the phone within like 2 seconds.
Conclusion: the charge port is not sealed. It might handle a splash if you let the port dry out, but forget about dunking it.
As a tip, search eBay for "6pcs Micro USB Port Dust Cap Cover for Samsung Galaxy S III S3 GT-I9300 (Black)". That is the title of the listing where I found 6 filler pieces for $5 USD, while the popular link provided in these forums for TOPI Covers (topicovers .com/products/micro-usb-port-cover) sells them at $2 each.

I contacted the support center for the store (Elkjp, a norwegian national store owned the Dixon Group) where I bought my Galaxy S4 Active about the cover for the USB-connector, and got this reply (translated into English):
"According to the manufacturer the USB-connector itself is waterproof without the rubber cover. The robber cover is only for dust protection. Normally the warranty does not cover water damage, but with some products, like you Galaxy S4 Active, we will approve your warranty request if water have penetrated into the phone, as long as it has no other visual damages."
Unsure who the store's support supervisor has contacted for this informastion, might be just a wild quess by the supervisor or Samsung in Norway. The manufacturer warranty in Norway is 2 year for Samsung mobile phones, and national customer warranty/complaints are 5 years for mobile phones, according to Norwegian law.

Clarence_C said:
As a fixer, I decided to test this theory. My friend's two year old ripped her charge port cover off and wanted me to fix it. I've been looking for the past day, and haven't found anything that is a direct replacement, just filler pieces for generic micro-USB or for the S3 ports (same thing, really).
So I took the phone apart so I could see the inside, and I, using electrical contact cleaner spray so I don't break the phone, barely pulled the trigger so it would dribble down into the port instead of blast everywhere. Well, I saw contact cleaner on the inside of the phone within like 2 seconds.
Conclusion: the charge port is not sealed. It might handle a splash if you let the port dry out, but forget about dunking it.
As a tip, search eBay for "6pcs Micro USB Port Dust Cap Cover for Samsung Galaxy S III S3 GT-I9300 (Black)". That is the title of the listing where I found 6 filler pieces for $5 USD, while the popular link provided in these forums for TOPI Covers (topicovers .com/products/micro-usb-port-cover) sells them at $2 each.
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Click to collapse
No offense, but you sound less than scientific and I see numerous holes in your testing. If the device is rated by the manufacturer to be waterproof without the USB flap then it seems unreasonable to question without definitive evidence that it is not, which thus far you have failed to provide.
Sent from my GT-I9295 using XDA Premium HD app

i agree. dont mock if you are no expert!!

The IP67 rating is based upon 1 meter of water depth for 30 minutes without water intrusion. This requires positive sealing methods like the silicone gasket on the cover with snap clips holding it down with pressure. A little flappy cover that just sets in place provides no sealing what so ever at 1.4psi.

pyro254750 said:
No offense, but you sound less than scientific and I see numerous holes in your testing. If the device is rated by the manufacturer to be waterproof without the USB flap then it seems unreasonable to question without definitive evidence that it is not, which thus far you have failed to provide.
Sent from my GT-I9295 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I checked the manual (from Samsung.com) and on page 11 says it's NOT waterproof without the USB cover correctly in place:
"Caution! Be careful not to damage or detach the multipurpose jack cover. A damaged or missing cover can result in water damage to the device."
It may be a CYA note, or maybe it's not water-resistant without the cover. As far as I can find this is the only 'official' word on whether or not it's water-resistant without the flap (which its supposedly not). I'm not doubting the OP by any means, if his phone works without the cover that's great, but I'm not going to rip mine off on purpose to test it out.

TwoStroker37 said:
The IP67 rating is based upon 1 meter of water depth for 30 minutes without water intrusion. This requires positive sealing methods like the silicone gasket on the cover with snap clips holding it down with pressure. A little flappy cover that just sets in place provides no sealing what so ever at 1.4psi.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, a rubber stopper in a sink or bathtub will not seal because the water is only a few inches deep?
In theory, the flap will always seal if it fits well (no dirt, cracks, etc.) and the pressure outside the phone is greater than the pressure inside the phone, but not so great a difference to structurally deform or damage the seal. If the phone remains vertical with the flap at the bottom, it doesn't need the seal at all. Think of an inverted bottle without a cap. You can push it down into the water, but the air remains inside.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I537 using Tapatalk

Water proof cover.
If you do not like the dust cover on the phone you can try a piece of silicone ear plugs. The are designed to keep water out of your ears when swimming just don't force it into deep in the usb port. If your still not satisfied and you want to dunk the phone a simple zip lock bag works great for most phone and you can still use the touch screen though it will not be as sensitive. I have used plastic bags to keep my phone dry in the rain several times. Good luck, hope this was helpful.

Yes It is bit worry for me also and my phone is now out of warranty and I can not replace it.

Wadell said:
[/COLOR]The Samsung Galaxy S4 wireless charging kit is now available directly through Samsung’s accessory store. Should you choose to make charging on your GS4 “hassle free,” be prepared to shell out $90. In order to become a wireless charging machine, the Galaxy S4 needs both a charging cover (battery cover replacement) and the charging pad (pictured above). The back cover runs $39.99, while the pad will cost $49.99. If there is one added bonus to the charging pad, it’s the fact that it should work with all Qi-certified wireless charging products, so you could get some additional use out of it.
We’ve got links to Samsung’s site below for those who are interested.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where did you find the original samsung wireless covers?
I cant find them anywhere?
Do you have a link?
BR

The S4 cover is different than the S4 Active for obvious reasons. It won't fit.

my-blue-snog-box said:
Keep in mind that if you have at&t, this should be covered under the 1 year warranty. You may have to argue a bit with the rep, but I got mine replaced when it pulled off.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did they send you the part or did you have to send your phone to them? I don't mind replacing it myself. I ripped mine as well and I also noticed that it isn't as loud with the cover off(noticed that before it ripped off). Either way, I use my phone for work, so I can't be without a phone for weeks while they fix something.

monkeyhouse said:
Did they send you the part or did you have to send your phone to them? I don't mind replacing it myself. I ripped mine as well and I also noticed that it isn't as loud with the cover off(noticed that before it ripped off). Either way, I use my phone for work, so I can't be without a phone for weeks while they fix something.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They sent me a replacement, and only once I got that in the mail did I have to send in the defective unit.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk

Confirmed cover not for waterproofing
I wanted to reiterate this statement. I spoke to Samsung technical support today and they confirmed that cover is just a dust cover. It has nothing to do with keeping water out of the phone. Mine broke off and I'm not going to attempt to replace it.
TwoStroker37 said:
I'm not sure if anyone is aware, but the flappy charging port cover is just dust protection cover, it provides no waterproofing. I cut mine off months ago it's very annoying. It does not affect the phone's ability to survive 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.
My phone see's water daily in the shower or going wakesurfing. Still working like brand new since day 1!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Im not quite sure that usb port cover flap is only to protect from dust. Then why on every video, instructions, manuals, after unplugging usb cable there is a warning to close usb cover and in camera Aqua Mode too, if not closed properly this situation water will damage phone? I havent heard of wateroroof usb. Every waterproof phone has usb cover that protect usb port. Theres only waterproof headphone jack
Wysłane z mojego GT-I9295 przy użyciu Tapatalka

USB Flap not closing properly..

Had the phone for nearly two weeks.. Noticed the flap seems to open on its own this in turn taking away the "waterproof" abilities of the device.
Spoke to O2 UK and literally straight away the guy said they will be exchanging it.
I now have a courier coming tomorrow to swap the phones out so hopefully I don't get this issue again..
Can't fault the service from O2 here though they don't mess about!
Sent from my D5803 using XDA Free mobile app

That's disappointing...
I'm planning on getting the Z3 Compact through a friend going to America which frankly means that if I have any problems like these I won't be able to use the warranty and replace the device. Hopefully I won't have any problems.
One thing that can prevent problems with the USB flap is simply not using it, but rather charging via the magnetic port with a dock/cable/adapter.

Tuberomix said:
That's disappointing...
I'm planning on getting the Z3 Compact through a friend going to America which frankly means that if I have any problems like these I won't be able to use the warranty and replace the device. Hopefully I won't have any problems.
One thing that can prevent problems with the USB flap is simply not using it, but rather charging via the magnetic port with a dock/cable/adapter.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Shouldn't have to avoid using any part of the phone.. If it's not going to work properly I don't want it, no matter what it is I have bought..
Sent from my D5803 using XDA Free mobile app

pricey2009 said:
Shouldn't have to avoid using any part of the phone.. If it's not going to work properly I don't want it, no matter what it is I have bought..
Sent from my D5803 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes that's fair enough. It's a shame if the USB flap really does have design issues or maybe it's just a rarer issue that unfortunately happened to you.

Tuberomix said:
Yes that's fair enough. It's a shame if the USB flap really does have design issues or maybe it's just a rarer issue that unfortunately happened to you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Apparently it's not so rare, alot of people would seem to getting similar issues if you look on the Sony mobile forums..
I would advise everyone to check their units and make sure both flaps close properly..
If not your phone will not be waterproof and hence may die if you take it for a swim like they do on the adverts...
Sent from my D5803 using XDA Free mobile app

At the end of the day, the flaps are made of plastic which can and will bend if you don't take care when removing or make sure its not getting caught in anything while its off.
I'm not saying this is the case with everyone, but likely for most...

I'm in exactly the same boat. Bought the black version from Clove, arrived just under 2 weeks ago. For the last few days, I noticed the flap was loose when taking it out of my pocket, thought it was becoming loose while walking around. Closed the flap and left it on the table, few minutes later, it was loose again, so definitely a hardware problem. Gave the flap a clear with an earbud but no cigar. Nano SIM cover sits nice and tight
Really disappointed as I really like the phone and apart from this issue, it lives up to my expectations for both the hardware and software. Gonna be a pain going back to my Nexus 4 which I wiped clean in the expectation I'd be selling it soon >.<
Is it a case of replacing the flap or is there a bigger problem? Anyone had any experience with Clove returns? Will they ship out a new one before I return the faulty one - would make life easier as I can use the Sony PC Companion app to transfer all my stuff to the new one straight away

zer0day said:
I'm in exactly the same boat. Bought the black version from Clove, arrived just under 2 weeks ago. For the last few days, I noticed the flap was loose when taking it out of my pocket, thought it was becoming loose while walking around. Closed the flap and left it on the table, few minutes later, it was loose again, so definitely a hardware problem. Gave the flap a clear with an earbud but no cigar. Nano SIM cover sits nice and tight
Really disappointed as I really like the phone and apart from this issue, it lives up to my expectations for both the hardware and software. Gonna be a pain going back to my Nexus 4 which I wiped clean in the expectation I'd be selling it soon >.<
Is it a case of replacing the flap or is there a bigger problem? Anyone had any experience with Clove returns? Will they ship out a new one before I return the faulty one - would make life easier as I can use the Sony PC Companion app to transfer all my stuff to the new one straight away
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its obviously a known issue or they wouldn't exchange it so fast in my case..
As soon as I told them the issue, the first response was "you will have it exchanged on your doorstep Monday morning"
Sent from my GT-I9300 using XDA Free mobile app

Vodafone Germany exchanged mine within a week (door to door) because of that problem.
Seems to be at least a whole production batch with bad tolerance...

Well got my replacement today and the flap on this unit closes with a "click"
So, definitely check your device does this or else it is not waterproof and needs replacing like the one I had before..
Sent from my D5803 using XDA Free mobile app

Clove have agreed to do an exchange, apparently they've had others return it for the same problem. Hoping the next one is fine

zer0day said:
Clove have agreed to do an exchange, apparently they've had others return it for the same problem. Hoping the next one is fine
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How long ago did you buy it?

OT: I really don't understand why Sony isn't providing magnetic cable in their original packages. My guess is that there will be a lot of people who will not be familiar with magnetic charging option and damage their flops during opening for charging.

spider1029 said:
OT: I really don't understand why Sony isn't providing magnetic cable in their original packages. My guess is that there will be a lot of people who will not be familiar with magnetic charging option and damage their flops during opening for charging.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are no sony produced cables, only magnetic charging docks.. All the cables are third party only
Sent from my D5803 using XDA Free mobile app

How did the Z1/Z2 waterproof covers hold up over time? I would assume anything made of rubbery plastic is gonna stretch and deform slightly over time with repeated opening/closing and exposure to the elements, so I'm curious how long these phones actually stay waterproof.

Just to join the club, have the same issue with my z3c on usb port side, sim card cover is closed as it should be. I already changed my phone once because of display issue and on that one didn't noticed that covers problem. So now I have another irritating issue. Just to inform those who claim that it is bad handling cause, I don't even use this cover cause from the fisrst day of use i had the magnetic charger just because of that I don't have to open this cover and risk to damage it.
So now I have damaged covere which was opened only once, when I inserted my sd card .

New replacement flaps on eBay selling for £5
Sent from my D5803 using XDA Free mobile app

Have you tried it?
Sent from my D5803 using XDA Free mobile app

I got my Z3c from Mediamarkt and found out the flap of the SIM-card wasn't closing either. If you would press it, it would stay in place for a small minute and hops open. I decided to return it and ask for a new one, because I bought the phone because of the waterproofing. I picked up a new one in the store and luckily the flaps were OK. Sony could easily fix this problem by changing the flaps, the rubber seems a tiny bit too thick.

Can I remove the rubber from the USB flap and it will still close properly?

A few questions on display repairs/replacement and waterproofness

So I had an incident with my beloved Z3c (D5803) and now I find myself in need to repair it. I don't really want to share the details of such incident and to be honest they are not that important. What's important is that I decided to replace the whole LCD/digitizer assembly.
What would you recommend in terms of better achievable waterproofing, just the LCD/digitizer with the adhesive tape or the whole midframe with the display attached already? The one with the midframe attached already costs about 33% more, but I'm willing to pay the premium if that means that the phone will still be waterproof after the repair.
The same question goes for the back cover, should I just buy new adhesive and re-use the current one (which is in almost mint condition) or just buy a new cover with the tape pre-attached?
And lastly, I'm planning on buying this stuff on eBay, and I'd like to know what you think about these listings. I must note that I have a 20% site wide discount coupon, so if you recommend another site because it's cheaper keep that in mind.
With midframe
Without

Just yesterday I replaced my back panel with one found on witrigs, OEM I believe. Because it was already cracked it came off really easy and I didn't need to preheat the adhesive. There was very little residue which I removed and after that plopped the new one on. The new glass back panel came with adhesive already on it, I would advice that. The whole process was very easy and took about 10 minutes. Look around for repair/disassembly tutorials and good luck!

XclusionNL said:
Just yesterday I replaced my back panel with one found on witrigs, OEM I believe. Because it was already cracked it came off really easy and I didn't need to preheat the adhesive. There was very little residue which I removed and after that plopped the new one on. The new glass back panel came with adhesive already on it, I would advice that. The whole process was very easy and took about 10 minutes. Look around for repair/disassembly tutorials and good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for your advice, I've already seen a couple of disassembly guides and I think I've got a good idea on how to fix this myself (or in the worst case scenario I could go to one of the hundreds of repair shops in the downtown, here in Mexico City, and pay the guy a couple of bucks to install the parts I'm going to buy).
What I'm most worried about is the waterproofing; have you tested your phone in this regard? I still don't know which part to buy, the whole assembly or just the LCD/digitizer.
As for the back cover... I might as well buy both the adhesive and the back cover, it would be like 7-8 bucks for both.

jhonyrod said:
Thank you for your advice, I've already seen a couple of disassembly guides and I think I've got a good idea on how to fix this myself (or in the worst case scenario I could go to one of the hundreds of repair shops in the downtown, here in Mexico City, and pay the guy a couple of bucks to install the parts I'm going to buy).
What I'm most worried about is the waterproofing; have you tested your phone in this regard? I still don't know which part to buy, the whole assembly or just the LCD/digitizer.
As for the back cover... I might as well buy both the adhesive and the back cover, it would be like 7-8 bucks for both.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have not tested if it is water proof because I am not sure it will survive the test As for your second question: if the primary concern is waterproofness you might as well go for the whole assembly, that seems saver to me

XclusionNL said:
I have not tested if it is water proof because I am not sure it will survive the test As for your second question: if the primary concern is waterproofness you might as well go for the whole assembly, that seems saver to me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I bought the full assembly, as well as 2 sets of adhesives and a back cover. I thought that I might be able to re-stick my current display (the only issue it has is a couple of dead lines in the bottom left edge; like 10 by 5 lines) and have it as a back up or maybe even sell it as scrap.
BTW, you can test if your phone is air tight in the service menu, if it is air tight it most likely is water tight as well. Dial #*#*SERVICE*#* #, then tests and then peressure sensor, squeeze the phone and you should see the pressure rise.
Mine, when brand new, rose a bit and then it slowly decreased... Now with the nature of the damage of the display I think that it wasn't entirely waterproof to begin with. Who knows? Maybe after the repair it will end up 'more' waterproof than before.

I just used that service menu, it shows me about 1020 millibar and goes slightly up when I firmly press the phone, so.... this means my repair was a success as far as air-tightness goes?

If it stays up for as long as you press it I reckon it still is waterproof (but then again, don't go swim with it based on this, even Sony doesn't recommend doing this anymore). If it goes down maybe it has a leak, but as I've said before, mine had such a leak since I bought it, so go figure.