The questionable utility of an ELT mounted inside the fuselage is an old issue.
Years ago a solution for remote and oceanic crashes was developed called the "Crash Position Indicator" - essentially an ELT that is mounted in a protective "tumbling airfoil" outside the aircraft. On impact the ELT flies away from the aircraft and can float or have a better chance of not being burned/buried. Some were even connected to the CVR/FDR.
It was a technical success and is still found on some aircraft, especially in the RCAF.
Commercially it was a failure, but events like AF447 and MH370 suggest the CPI may need another look.
Crash position indicator - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia