Paris, September 14, 2023 – The French regulator of radio frequencies, ANFR, has ordered Apple to remove its iPhone 12 from the French market, effective September 12, after testing revealed that the device emits electromagnetic waves predisposed to be absorbed by the body beyond permissible limits. The ANFR cited a breach of the European standard for specific absorption rates.
During accredited laboratory tests simulating typical phone usage, it was found that the iPhone 12 exceeded the allowed electromagnetic absorption threshold, measuring at 5.74 watts per kilogramme. In such tests, the European standard mandates a specific absorption rate of 4.0 watts per kilogramme.
ANFR stated on its website that Apple must promptly take corrective measures for previously sold iPhone 12 units to ensure they comply with the legal limits. Failure to do so could result in a recall of affected phones.
It’s worth noting that tests measuring electromagnetic radiation absorption at a distance of five centimeters were within compliance, measuring at 2.0 watts per kilogramme.
ANFR has initiated inspections to ensure that iPhone 12 models are no longer available for sale in France starting Wednesday.
Apple has not issued an immediate comment in response to ANFR’s order.
Mobile phone manufacturers worldwide are subject to regulations that impose limits on the electromagnetic radiation their devices may emit to safeguard against potential adverse health effects. However, the World Health Organization, after an extensive review of available studies, states on its website that “no adverse health effects have been established as being caused by mobile phone use.”
This development raises questions about the future of the iPhone 12 in other markets and potential actions by regulatory bodies in other countries regarding electromagnetic emissions from mobile devices.
