In a recent development, Apple is grappling with the possibility of a sales ban and a potential recall of its iPhone 12 in France due to concerns raised by the nation’s regulator, the French ANFR watchdog. The controversy revolves around the smartphone’s radio frequency exposure levels, with the watchdog claiming that the iPhone 12 exceeds permissible limits. Apple vehemently contests these findings, citing certification by multiple international bodies and asserting compliance with global radiation standards.
Understanding the Issue:
The specific absorption rate (SAR), a measure of radio frequency energy absorbed by the body from a device, is at the heart of the issue. During testing replicating typical usage conditions, the ANFR recorded a SAR of 5.74 watts per kilogram for the iPhone 12, although the EU requirement is 4.0 watts per kilogram. It is important to remember, however, that the SAR indicates the highest limit under severe conditions and does not always reflect real-world exposure.
Apple’s Reaction: Apple is actively engaged with the regulator, sharing internal and independent lab data to verify compliance with worldwide SAR legislation and safety standards. Furthermore, Apple provides SAR values for its products on its website, including those for the iPhone 12.
Potential Ramifications
If Apple does not resolve the issues within two weeks, France’s junior minister for the digital economy proposes recalling all iPhone 12 handsets now in circulation. The ANFR plans to communicate its findings with authorities in other EU member states, potentially causing a chain reaction.
Conclusion: This dispute highlights the authorities’ continuous monitoring of mobile phone radiation emissions throughout the world. While there are worries, it is important to mention that the World Health Organization has identified no negative health impacts associated with cell phone use. While navigating this difficulty, Apple is also preparing to switch to universal USB-C charging ports in its upcoming iPhone 15 models, which is being spurred by new EU standard charger laws aimed at decreasing electronic waste and saving consumers money.
