iPhone 12 Ban in France: Debunking Radiation Concerns

Politics, News Sept. 20, 2023, 11:59 p.m.

France banned iPhone 12 due to elevated electromagnetic radiation emissions, exceeding SAR limits. Apple disputes safety concerns, planning a software update. Scientific consensus suggests smartphones pose no significant health risks.

In recent news, there have been reports about the iPhone 12 facing a ban in France due to concerns related to electromagnetic radiation. Before delving deeper into this issue, it's crucial to clarify that when we mention "radiation" in this context, we are referring to electromagnetic radiation, which encompasses various forms such as visible light, radio waves, x-rays, as well as Wi-Fi and cellular communication signals.

The story unfolds with a French regulatory watchdog group responsible for radio frequencies, known as the ANFR, releasing a statement last week. In their statement, they asserted that their tests revealed that the iPhone 12 emits higher levels of electromagnetic radiation than what is permitted under French laws. Furthermore, the ANFR stated their intent to employ all available means to rectify this non-compliance issue.

The radiation emitted by mobile phones is typically measured using the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR), which quantifies the rate at which the body absorbs radiation. Tests conducted by the ANFR indicated that the iPhone 12 emitted 5.74 watts per kilogram when simulating the phone being held in hand or kept in a pocket. Notably, the European Union's limit for SAR in such tests is set at 4.0 watts per kilogram.

While the iPhone 12 is no longer available for sale in France, rendering a sales ban somewhat moot, the ANFR could potentially push for a recall of handsets that have already been sold in the country.

On the opposing side, Apple, along with support from other European regulatory bodies, is downplaying the issue. Apple asserts that this elevated radiation emission is not a safety concern. They emphasize that the iPhone 12, like all other smartphones, underwent rigorous testing and received certifications from regulatory bodies worldwide. Nevertheless, Apple has committed to issuing a software update for users in France to align with the protocols required by French regulators.

Ministers in Denmark and Belgium have also voiced their support for Apple, expressing that they have no safety concerns regarding the iPhone 12.

It's vital to clarify that your iPhone is not radioactive. The "radiation" in question here is a different form of electromagnetic radiation. Safety remains paramount, and regulatory oversight plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of consumer devices. It's commendable that this issue has been brought to light, and Apple's efforts to address it with a software patch are noteworthy.

However, it's important to note that the iPhone 12 is unlikely to pose any immediate risk to users, even with these slightly elevated SAR levels. Just a few years ago, these SAR levels would have been considered safe. Additionally, it's worth mentioning that France modified the SAR testing methodology in 2020, measuring radiation levels at 0 mm from the smartphone instead of the previous 5mm. This change in testing methodology may account for the iPhone's failure to meet the new standards.

Regarding the broader question of whether smartphones can cause cancer or other health issues, the scientific consensus, as supported by studies, indicates that these ubiquitous devices do not pose significant health risks. According to the National Cancer Institute, there is currently no consistent evidence suggesting that non-ionizing radiation, such as that emitted by mobile phones, increases the risk of cancer in humans. The institute emphasizes that the primary biological effect of radio frequency radiation in humans is heating, and no other adverse health effects have been consistently recognized.