France halts iPhone 12 sales over radiation levels

In response to concerns about radiation, France has asked Apple not to sell the iPhone 12. In the event that the issue cannot be resolved, they may recall all units sold. The decision is being challenged by Apple.

France has taken a surprising step by telling Apple to stop selling the iPhone 12 due to concerns about electromagnetic radiation. The French authority responsible for radio frequencies, known as ANFR, has also requested Apple to find a solution for existing iPhone 12 devices.

ANFR has advised Apple to either fix the issue through a software update or recall all iPhone 12 units ever sold in France. In light of the World Health Organization’s previous claim that low-level electromagnetic fields from mobile phones are not harmful to humans, this decision has raised eyebrows.

The iPhone 12, which was first introduced in September 2020, is still available worldwide. However, Apple is contesting ANFR’s review and has provided lab results to demonstrate compliance with global radiation regulations.

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France’s digital minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, clarified that the decision was based on the iPhone 12’s Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) exceeding legally allowable levels. Apple has been given a two-week window to respond; failure to do so may lead to a recall of all iPhone 12 devices in circulation.

A domino effect of actions against Apple could occur if France shares its findings with other European regulators. ANFR assesses SAR by considering two scenarios: one where the phone is in close contact with the body and another where it’s slightly further away. The iPhone 12’s SAR exceeded the limit for close contact but stayed within acceptable levels for the latter scenario.

It’s interesting to note that this development coincides with Apple’s unveiling of the new iPhone 15, the first model to feature an alternative charging port since 2012. Apple will also offer adapters for people to use their existing cables with this new phone.

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According to China, government agencies have not instructed staff to use iPhones, and no laws, regulations, or policies have been put in place to prevent their use.