It doesn't need to send anything to Apple. A tech could read a log or CMOS bit or whatever at time of repair. Not saying they do that but the article seems pretty pointless. It's like they wanted to talk about a neat feature and chose the most indigent way possible.
And beyond that obvious path the author is only watching for activity while the port is not wet! Obviously it wouldn't phone home every time the port is dry. While I doubt apple is using this to void warranty claims this is about the weakest debunking of that I can imagine.
We’re prey for their bottom line as they can’t sell TV’s for a profit without running ads all over it. I’m done. I’m out. Back to books, vinyl, fresh press, gnu, board games, and going outside.