Apple to update iPhone 12 in France after sales ban due to high radiation levels

Apple will release a new software update for the iPhone 12 in France to avoid a sales ban related to high radiation levels. It is possible that the company will do the same in other markets.

Previously, on September 12, France ordered Apple to stop selling iPhone 12 in the country after discovering that the phone line released levels of electromagnetic radiation that exceeded the allowable limit.

iPhone 12 is banned from sale in France.

Apple immediately denied this and affirmed that the iPhone 12 was certified by many international agencies to comply with global standards. However, on September 15, the "bitten apple" became more lenient, saying that it would release a new software update to match the testing methods used by France.

According to ANFR, the French agency that regulates radio frequencies, reputable laboratories have studied and discovered that the body of an iPhone 12 user absorbs up to 5.74 watts/kg of electromagnetic energy when they hold the phone in their hand or keep it in their pocket. The standard level in Europe is 4 watts/kg.

The radiation warning in France has sparked concerns across Europe. Belgium's digital chief said he has asked Apple to update the iPhone 12 software in EU countries, despite his own preliminary assessment that the phone poses no risk to users.

Germany has also contacted French authorities to find solutions across the region, while Italy is said to have asked Apple to upgrade a new software for the iPhone 12 there, according to Reuters sources.

Meanwhile, the Dutch Digital Infrastructure Authority said it would launch its own investigation, expected in the next two weeks, and was in contact with Apple as well as the German and French authorities. The authority also received calls from a number of customers concerned about the issue.

In contrast, Denmark reassured iPhone 12 users, saying that based on the available information, the country's health authorities said the devices could still be used normally without concern.

The French government welcomes Apple’s software update and will review it promptly. Meanwhile, Apple hopes to resume sales of the iPhone 12 in the country. “This is related to the specific testing protocol used by France, not a safety issue,” Apple said in a statement.

Source