Apple Addresses EU Radiation Concerns, Reduces iPhone 12 Radio Power Across Europe

In a significant move affecting its popular iPhone 12 series, Apple has announced it will issue a software update to reduce the radio power of all iPhone 12 models across the European Union. This decision comes as a direct response to concerns raised by France's national frequency agency, ANFR, which had previously ordered a halt to iPhone 12 sales in the country, citing elevated electromagnetic radiation levels.

The controversy began when ANFR flagged the iPhone 12 for exceeding the permissible specific absorption rate (SAR) for limbs – the measure of radiofrequency energy absorbed by the body from mobile phones.

While Apple firmly maintained that the iPhone 12 was compliant with global radiation standards, the company committed to rolling out a software update to address the specific testing protocol used by French regulators and ensure full compliance.

This forthcoming update, which Apple stated would be available in France and subsequently across the EU, is designed to reduce the power transmitted by the iPhone 12 when it's in contact with a user's body, for example, when held in the hand or placed in a pocket.

For most users, the practical impact of this change is expected to be minimal, with no noticeable difference in performance or connectivity.

The ANFR had specifically found that the iPhone 12's SAR value for limbs was 5.74 watts per kilogram (W/kg), exceeding the European standard of 4 W/kg. Apple explained that the issue stemmed from a power management feature that boosts transmit power when the device is not in contact with the body, which, according to Apple, adhered to global standards.

However, the French agency's testing methodology, which assumes constant body contact, led to the discrepancy.

Following France's initial order, other European countries, including Belgium, Germany, and Italy, began monitoring the situation closely and hinted at potential follow-up actions. Apple's swift response and commitment to a pan-EU update aim to preempt further regulatory challenges and reinforce consumer confidence in its products across the continent.

This ensures that the iPhone 12, a device beloved by millions, continues to meet all European safety standards without compromise.