Apple has always been known for its unique and unparalleled warranty service for its users. However, this exceptional service has occasionally led some users to take advantage of it, prompting Apple to introduce a new feature on Macs: a sensor that detects the presence of liquid in USB-C ports, preventing users from attempting to deceive the company.
This measure has been put in place to deter users from claiming damage to their device’s connectors due to liquid exposure, which is considered to be a result of carelessness or misuse and falls outside the warranty coverage.
How Apple Detects Liquid in Its Ports
With the latest macOS Sonoma 14.1, Apple has strengthened its ability to identify liquid-related issues. The operating system can now detect if there has been any contact with liquids and will generate an error log report to the company itself. This report is created to address potential warranty claims linked to liquid-related problems.
Apple already specifies, like other companies, that errors resulting from misuse, including those related to liquids, are not covered by the warranty. Until now, it was challenging to prove these liquid-related issues, especially when they were external and seemingly caused by something as simple as spilled coffee.
Macs now feature an indicator that was already present in iPads and iPhones. When you connect a charger, this indicator will inform you if the port is damp or wet, advising you to wait before using it. This not only benefits Apple but also helps users prevent damage to their computers if they are unaware that the port is wet.
Apple Macs have always had a sensor indicating whether they’ve come into contact with water when opened. This sensor is similar to a white “sticker” that changes color when exposed to moisture. Apple’s technicians can use this sensor to determine whether the device has been exposed to liquids when assessing warranty claims. However, it typically requires substantial exposure to water, such as submersion in a swimming pool, for this sensor to activate.
In summary, Mac users should exercise caution. Your Mac may now alert you to liquid contact, so attempting to deceive Apple regarding liquid-related damage is not advisable. It is unclear whether this feature will be activated in all Macs with the latest software update or will require specific hardware, possibly only available in upcoming models. In any case, users should take care to avoid liquid exposure to their devices.