Sony has announced a new smartphone that can be used in the shower or bath without the risk of damage.This water-resistant feature is relatively common in Japan, but has not been included in many top-end smartphones released elsewhere.The Xperia Z can also record HDR (high dynamic range) video, a facility borrowed from its camera division.The Japanese company announced it was taking control of the smartphone unit, which had previously been a joint venture with Ericsson, in October 2011.The Android-powered device was unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas recently.Sony says the handset, which has a five-inch (12.7cm) screen, can be submerged in water of up to one metre (3.3 feet) in depth for 30 minutes."If you want to sit in the bath and watch an HD movie, this is the device for you,” Sony Mobile executive Steve Walker said."You can take it in the shower if you want, or more usefully, if you get it dirty you can wash it under the tap.”