Galaxy S5 to be waterproof, claims Korean media, and sport UV coating over the fingerprint sensor

Samsung Galaxy S5 itself, not some Active version, will be dust- and water-proof, claims Korean media, citing "local sources". It's not clear whether the phone will sport the IP57 or IP58 standards, or just be water-resistant. The sources simply say "users can clean the phone with water while it can sustain short durations of dunking the phone in water."

Sounds like IP57, where the phone can bear staying in three feet of water for up to half an hour, but we'll know for sure when it gets announced. This piece somewhat contradicts another rumor about the device - that it will still have a dedicated rugged version, Galaxy S5 Active of sorts - which Samsung allegedly aims to occupy 25% of the total S5 sales this year.

In addition, the tipsters spilled some beans regarding the rumored fingerprint scanner that will eventually arrive on the S5. They reiterate that it is integrated in the home button, but will need swiping, instead of simply tapping, like on Apple's iPhone 5s. They also mention that, while Apple is using sapphire coating for its Touch ID button, Samsung will go with "ultraviolet coating," whatever that means. Samsung has apparently tapped the US-based Validity for the fingerprint recognition sensor, but has done the surrounding packaging in-house, which jibes with previous reports on the matter. 

In any case, we'll be reporting live from the unveiling event on Monday, so grab the popcorn, and stay glued to the site. The Korean publication hints that, while Samsung might announce the Galaxy S5 next week, it won't be launched until later in March at the earliest.

source: ZDNet.co.kr