French Regulators Order Apple to Halt iPhone 12 Sales Due to Electromagnetic Radiation Levels
French regulators have issued an order to Apple, directing them to cease the sale of the iPhone 12. According to the regulators, the device emits electromagnetic radiation levels that exceed the standards set by the European Union for exposure. Apple has disputed these findings, asserting that the iPhone 12 complies with all relevant regulations.
The decision to halt sales comes after the French government agency responsible for managing wireless communication frequencies conducted tests on the iPhone 12. The device failed one of two tests for electromagnetic waves capable of being absorbed by the body. However, it remains unclear why this particular model did not pass the latest round of testing.
In response to the order, France’s digital minister has stated that the iPhone 12’s radiation levels are significantly lower than levels deemed harmful by scientific studies. The government agency itself acknowledges that its tests do not reflect typical phone usage.
Normal Levels When Kept in a Jacket or Bag
The recent tests conducted by the agency involved 141 cellphones, revealing that the iPhone 12’s electromagnetic energy absorption level exceeds the EU standard of 4 watts per kilogram when the device is held or carried. However, it passed the test for radiation levels when kept in a jacket or bag.
Malcolm Sperrin, the director of medical physics at the U.K.’s Royal Berkshire Hospital group, asserts that radiation limits are set well below the level at which harm occurs. He believes that the slightly higher radiation emitted by the iPhone 12 is unlikely to have any health consequences. Sperrin also suggests that users can download an update to prevent radiation exposure from exceeding the limit.
The reason for the iPhone 12’s higher radiation levels in comparison to other models is uncertain. Sperrin speculates that it may be related to the initial stage of connection when the phone is searching for a transmit/receive signal.
“The Rule is the Rule”
Apple has stated that the iPhone 12 has been certified by international bodies and adheres to all regulations and standards for radiation worldwide. The French agency has been provided with lab results from both Apple and third-party labs that demonstrate the phone’s compliance.
Jean-Noël Barrot, France’s minister in charge of digital issues, acknowledges that the National Frequency Agency monitors phone radiation levels, which may fluctuate due to software updates. He confirms that while the iPhone 12’s radiation levels are slightly higher than EU standards, they are significantly lower than levels considered harmful by scientific studies. However, he emphasizes that rules must be followed.
The agency conducts tests using a diagnostic lab that simulates a human head and body, including brain and muscle tissue filled with liquid. During the six-minute test, devices transmit at maximum power. The agency acknowledges that these tests do not reflect typical phone usage, as calls usually involve the phone transmitting for only half the time, and calls rarely last six minutes. However, mobile internet or video use may result in longer transmission times, but the agency notes that the phone rarely transmits for more than 10% of the time.
WHO: Cellphones “Possible” Carcinogens
The World Health Organization’s cancer research arm has classified cellphones as “possible” carcinogens, placing them in the same category as coffee, diesel fumes, and the pesticide DDT. It’s important to note that the radiation emitted by cellphones cannot directly damage DNA and differs from more intense forms of radiation such as X-rays or ultraviolet light.
While mobile phones have been extensively used for years, studies have not definitively linked them to adverse health effects like cancer, headaches, or cognitive impairment. Experts recommend that those concerned about cellphone radiation exposure use earphones or resort to texting.
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