Sony's new, smart smartphone, Xperia Z, can provide companionship even during bath time. Water-resistant, it can be used in the shower or even the bathtub, without any risk whatsoever.
Until now, no water-resistant smartphone has been released. However, the Xperia Z is relatively widespread only in Japan.
This water-friendly mobile phone runs Android software and features the ability to record HDR (high dynamic range) video. With a 5-inch display, the new smartphone can operate submerged in one meter of water for 30 minutes.
"If you want to watch a high-definition movie while enjoying your bath, this device is for you," said Steve Walker, director of Sony's mobile division.
"If you still want to clean it, all you have to do is put it under the tap," he added.
According to Walker, about one in ten mobile phone users have seen their device accidentally fall into water. The new model will no longer face the problem of water contact.
The device was presented at the international technology exhibition in Las Vegas.
In October 2011, Sony announced that it was focusing on the smartphone market. In the same year, it also parted ways with Ericsson after many years of collaboration.
Ben Wood, an analyst at telecoms firm Insight, told the BBC that the Xperia Z is the third most popular product in the UK, adding that it was too early to say whether the new phone would be the "top seller".
"The phone itself looks like a strong product, as it's the most attractive Xperia phone I've seen. However, we don't know what competition it will face this year.".
