At the same time as Apple announced its new iPhone 15, some bad news has arrived from France about the Cupertino company. L'National Frequency Agency (ANFR) discovered that the iPhone 12 (Apple product on the market since 2020) would have exceeded the maximum permitted limits of electromagnetic waves (SAR or Specific Absorption Rate) imposed by the European Community. Paris thus decided to take action and retire (at least momentarily) all iPhone 12 models from the market.
Apple now has days to take action.
What is Sar or Specific Absorption Rate
Il Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) is a measurement used for quantify the amount of energy of electromagnetic radiation absorbed by the human body when using a wireless device, such as a cell phone. It is expressed in watts per kilogram (W/kg) and is used to evaluate the potential impact of radiation on human health. SAR measures how much heat is generated in body tissues due to exposure to electromagnetic radiation, and is regulated to ensure devices remain within acceptable safety limits.
Tests are performed during calls to evaluate the emission of electromagnetic waves. In Europe, the SAR safety limit is 2 W/kg per 10 grams of fabric, while in the United States is 1,6 W/kg. When the appliance is kept in your pocket or hand il maximum limit is 4W/kg for the absorption of radiation from a device held in the hand or in a pocket.
Currently, there is no definitive evidence on the impact of smartphone radiation on the human body, but it is obviously advisable to choose devices that respect the established SAR limits.
iPhone 12: 1,74 the maximum value allowed
According to tests conducted by the French agency ANFR, theiPhone 12 emits electromagnetic waves that exceed legal limit of 1,74 watts per kilogram. This value exceeds the limit of 1,74 established for cell phones by 4 watts per kilo when they are near the extremities of the body, such as the hands, arms and legs.
At a distance of five centimeters from the body, the radiation detected, however, respects the limit of 2 W/kg.
iPhone 12 withdrawn from the market, two weeks to resolve
The French Agency has requested Apple to fix the problem of devices already sold, requesting a software update.
The Minister of Digital and Telecommunications, Jean-Noel Barrot, suggested that the problem of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the iPhone 12 may be fixed with a “simple software update”. “I have faith in the company's sense of responsibility in respecting our rules” – explains Barrot – “My mission is to enforce them, but if this is not the case, I am ready to order the withdrawal of the iPhone 12 in circulation. The rule is the same for everyone, including the digital giants." Finally, Barrot reassured citizens by minimizing the carcinogenic risks of electromagnetic radiation.
Apple has two weeks to update. The situation for iPhone 12 models already sold is more complex: "With regards to phones already sold, Apple must adopt corrective measures as quickly as possible to bring them into compliance otherwise it will have to recall them", said the Anfr in a statement on its website.
Belgium also withdraws iPhone 12, Germany and Italy observe
The alarm regarding the radiation of the iPhone 12 is generating a domino effect involving other European countries. The Belgium, in particular, is taking measures similar to France, with the Secretary of State for Digitalisation, Matthew Michael who is requesting an analysis of potential health risks related to the device: “It is It is my duty to ensure that all citizens are safe. I quickly contacted the IBPT-BIPT (regulatory authority) to ask for an analysis on the potential danger of the product,” Michel explained, adding that he had also asked the regulator to review all Apple smartphones, as well as devices manufactured by other manufacturers, at a later stage.
Le German authorities are considering a similar procedure and are cooperating closely with France, while theNetherlands is looking into the matter and will ask Apple for an explanation.
In Italy, the Ministry of Industry is monitoring the situation without taking any specific action at the moment.
Apple disputes the findings
Apple disputed the Anfr's findings, claiming to have conducted several independent analyzes that confirm the iPhone 12 compliance. The company cooperated with the regulator and said the device was certified by various international bodies, demonstrating its compliance with global radiation standards. Apple also provided lab results to support its position.
