Next Big Thing – waterproof iPhone

Apple iPhone 4S

Help! I've dropped my iPhone in the toilet!
Well, stop using it in the toilet, you mucky pup. Still, soon you should be able to pick up a waterproof iPhone. At least, you will if Apple has anything to do with it.

How's that?
Patently Apple has unearthed an Apple patent for "Inhibiting Moisture Intrusion in a Very Small Form Factor Consumer Electronic Product." The system uses a combination of sealing tape and soldering paste to seal the interior of an iDevice – including the electrical contacts.

When can I expect my waterproof iPhone, then?
For the time being, this tech is intended for the iPod Shuffle – but according to Patently Apple, there's no reason the tech couldn't be used in Apple's larger iThings – iPhones, iPads and even MacBooks. In the meantime, check out our 5 of the best waterproof gadget. Or have a look at HzO's waterproofing tech – they're in talks with Apple and Samsung, so we could be getting a waterproof iPhone 5 or Galaxy S III.