In the latest macOS Sonoma 14.1 update, Apple introduced Liquiddetectiond, a new system service that analyzes USB-C ports on Macs for liquid ingress. This measure is designed to minimize cases of fraudulent warranty claims related to malfunctions of Apple devices.

Liquiddetectiond is not just a sensor, but also a complex analysis program that uses algorithms to determine the type and degree of liquid impact on the electronic components of the USB-C port. This allows you to not only record the fact of liquid intrusion, but also evaluate the possibility of corrosion and other long-term damage. Until now, such determinations were difficult and led to abuse of warranty.

Apple’s official warranty does not cover water damage, and until recently it was difficult for company employees to determine whether the Mac was damaged as a result. Liquid detection system service, true to its name, can record liquid contact facts. A similar feature has long been available on iPhone and iPad devices, warning users to disconnect the device from charging to prevent further damage. In the case of Mac, the function does not inform the user but collects data for further analysis by Apple experts.

This innovation will be an addition to existing fluid damage diagnostic methods. On Mac devices, Apple traditionally uses liquid contact indicators – LCI (Liquid Contact Indicators). These are small paper elements treated with a special composition that reacts by changing color when exposed to moisture. They are usually hidden inside the case and placed where contact with liquid is most likely.

When inspecting equipment by service specialists, a change in the color of the LCI is a reliable indicator that the device has been exposed to liquid, which is a reason for refusing warranty repair. The new Liquiddetectiond system is designed to complement these indicators by providing more detailed information about the nature and conditions of liquid contact, allowing Apple to more accurately identify cases of fraudulent warranty claims.

It’s not yet clear whether Liquiddetectiond will only work on the latest MacBook Pro models with the M3 chipset, or if it will be available on all Apple devices that support macOS Sonoma.