France's order to halt iPhone 12 sales over Radiation

France's order to halt iPhone 12 sales over radiation:

• On September 12, 2023, the French agency that regulates radio frequencies (ANFR) ordered Apple to halt sales of the iPhone 12 and fix existing handsets for emitting too much electromagnetic radiation.
• The ANFR said testing found that the iPhone 12 emits more electromagnetic waves susceptible to be absorbed by the body than permitted by European standards.
• The European standard is a specific absorption rate (SAR) of 4.0 watts per kilogram. The ANFR found that the iPhone 12's SAR was 5.74 watts per kilogram during tests simulating when the phone was being held in the hand or kept in a pocket.
• Apple disputes the findings, saying that the iPhone 12 is certified by multiple international bodies as compliant with global radiation standards.
• The ANFR said that Apple must take corrective measures to bring the affected phones into compliance within the "briefest of delays." Otherwise, Apple will have to recall them.
• The ANFR also said that it would verify beginning that iPhone 12 models were no longer being offered for sale in France.

Implications of the order:

The order to halt sales of the iPhone 12 is a significant blow to Apple, as France is one of its largest markets. It is also the first time that Apple has been affected by a sales ban in France due to radiation concerns.

The order could also have implications for other smartphone manufacturers, as it raises the possibility that other countries may follow suit.

Industry experts say there are no safety risks:

Industry experts say that there are no safety risks associated with the iPhone 12, as regulatory limits on SAR are set well below levels where scientists have found evidence of harm.

However, the French government's decision to halt sales of the phone is a precautionary measure, and it is important for Apple to address the ANFR's concerns as quickly as possible.

What's next:

Apple is expected to respond to the ANFR's order within two weeks. If they fail to do so, the French government may order a recall of all iPhones 12 in circulation.

It is also possible that Apple will release a software update to fix the radiation issues. However, it is unclear how long this would take.

In the meantime, consumers in France who are concerned about the radiation levels from the iPhone 12 may want to consider using a headset or speakerphone when making calls.