The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is rated at 5ATM plus on the IP68 scale, meaning that it should be okay to use during activities for short amounts of time submerged in water, like swimming in a pool. Despite this rating and Samsung’s representations about the watch’s water resistant nature, several customers are still reporting their watches are ceasing to work after minor exposure to water and exposure well within the parameters of what the 5ATM plus rating is supposed to cover, like showers and swimming. This defect is in breach of the implied warranty of merchantability.

In addition, Samsung is apparently not processing many claims for water damage to its Galaxy 4 watches, though some customers report being able to get Samsung to replace the broken watches. Customers may have claims for defective design and false advertising.

Samsung’s mobile device user agreement includes a mandatory arbitration provision and a class action waiver.  

Apple faced a similar class action in 2022 alleging that they falsely advertised their iPhones as being waterproof.