By In an effort to address concerns raised by French authorities regarding radiation levels in iPhone 12 models, Apple has made a commitment to update the software on these devices specifically for the French market. However, this move has implications beyond France, as similar concerns have emerged in other European countries, prompting discussions and potential actions across the continent.
France’s decision to suspend the sales of iPhone 12 handsets was based on tests that reportedly found violations of radiation exposure limits. Apple, in response, contested these findings, asserting that the iPhone 12 had received certification from multiple international bodies, indicating compliance with global standards. Despite this disagreement, Apple has decided to release a software update tailored to accommodate the testing methods employed in France, thereby addressing the regulatory concerns in that country.
The issue at hand involves the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) of the iPhone 12, which measures the rate of radiofrequency energy absorbed by the body when using the device. France’s approach to SAR testing differs from that of other countries, as it includes testing for limb exposure, in addition to the head and body. The iPhone 12 reportedly failed the French limb SAR tests, which are conducted at a distance of 0 mm, compared to 5 mm for body tests.
The response to this situation varies across Europe. Belgium’s state secretary for digitalization has reached out to Apple to request similar software updates across EU countries, although preliminary reviews by Belgian regulators indicate that the iPhone 12 poses no danger to users in Belgium. Germany is collaborating with French authorities to find a potential EU-wide solution, while Italy is also considering asking Apple to update the software on iPhone 12 models sold in the country. However, any decisions or requests in Italy are expected to come after the conclusion of the French investigation.
The Dutch Authority for Digital Infrastructure is conducting its own investigation, which is expected to conclude in two weeks. This authority is in contact with Apple, as well as German and French authorities, and has received inquiries from concerned consumers.
Apple’s response to this situation underscores its commitment to ensuring its products comply with regulatory standards in various markets. The French government has welcomed Apple’s initiative to issue a software update, and this move is expected to allow the resumption of iPhone 12 sales in France. Apple has emphasized that this issue pertains to a specific testing protocol used by French regulators and does not indicate a safety concern.
Reassurances have also come from Denmark, where the Safety Authority has stated that it will not take action based on France’s findings and has no concerns regarding radiation levels from the iPhone 12. Industry experts have echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that regulatory limits for radiation exposure are set well below levels that would pose harm to users.
Ultimately, this incident is unlikely to have a lasting impact on Apple, especially since the iPhone 12 is now considered an older model, with Apple having recently launched the iPhone 15. There had been concerns about a potential recall if Apple had refused to implement a software update, but this scenario seems to have been averted.
In Europe, Apple remains a significant player in the smartphone market, with revenues totaling approximately $95 billion in the region last year, making Europe its second-largest market after the Americas. While precise sales figures by country or model are not publicly disclosed by Apple, it is estimated that the company sold more than 50 million iPhones in Europe last year.
the iPhone 12 radiation level dispute has prompted a series of responses and discussions across Europe, with Apple taking steps to address the issue and reassure regulators and consumers. The situation highlights the importance of adhering to regulatory standards in various markets and the complexities that can arise when different testing protocols are employed. However, the overall impact on Apple and the iPhone 12 model is expected to be limited in the long run.
