Sony Xperia Devices

In August 2017, a federal judge preliminarily approved a settlement agreement that would resolve a class-action lawsuit filed against Sony earlier in 2017. The April 2017 complaint alleges that the company deceptively advertises its Xperia smartphones and tablets as waterproof when, according to plaintiffs, they are not waterproof and not designed or capable of underwater use.

According to the settlement terms, the company agreed to extend the limited warranty for water damage by 12 months for devices with a warranty that is still in effect and 6 months for devices with an out-of-date warranty. The company also agreed to change the term “waterproof” and similar terms to “water resistant” or another similar term. In addition, class members with claims of water damage may receive a refund of 50% of the MSRP for the device.

A final fairness hearing is scheduled for December 1, 2017. (Landes et al v. Sony Mobile Communications (U.S.A.), Inc. and Sony Electronics, Inc., Case No. 17-cv-2264, E.D.N.Y.)

For more information about other class-action lawsuits filed against Sony and TINA.org’s coverage of the company, click here.