French regulators set their sights on Apple, hitting the tech company with an order. They claim the iPhone 12 emits electromagnetic radiation higher than the European Union’s permitted levels. However, Apple quickly disputed these findings, asserting the iPhone 12’s compliance with the relevant regulations.
The order originates from the government agency managing wireless communication frequencies. This came after the iPhone 12 failed a key electromagnetic waves test, absorbing more than allowed by the body. However, the reason for this failure remains unclear.
According to France’s digital minister, the iPhone 12’s radiation levels sit beneath the harmful threshold. Science says normal phone use won’t cause harm. But, the National Frequency Agency requests a quick fix from Apple. The agency will closely monitor updates, potentially leading to recalls if the problem remains.
The iPhone 12 raised eyebrows during a recent test, exposing 5.74 watts per kilogram of electromagnetic energy. This exceeds the EU’s standard of 4 watts per kilogram. But, the iPhone 12 passed a separate radiation test during carriage in jackets or bags.
It’s important to note that radiation guidelines maintain safety margins. A minor increase unlikely creates any health issues, as pointed out by U.K.’s Malcolm Sperrin.
Apple should offer an update to put a lid on excessive radiation, says Sperrin. The cause of this issue might link to the phone’s search for a signal during initial connections.
Apple defended its iPhone 12’s international certifications, stating the device’s adherence to global radiation norms. The tech heavyweight also claims to have shared test results with the French agency, backing up their compliance claims.
The National Frequency Agency checks our phones’ electromagnetic waves regularly, says France’s digital minister Jean-Noël Barrot. These waves may fluctuate with software updates, but he reassures us, saying that the iPhone 12’s radiation levels, although higher than EU standards, sit well beneath those deemed harmful to health.
Despite these assurances and the fact that cellphones fall into the same category as coffee and diesel fumes, experts still recommend caution. For concerned users, the simple solution involves using earphones or focusing more on texting.
