The Federal Communications Commission is reportedly conducting tests on the iPhone 7 after reports reveal it is leaking more radiofrequency radiation than what's considered safe.
With smartphones often attached to many people's hands nearly 24/7, it's important to find out whether these habits harm one's health. iPhone is one of the most popular units in the market.
iPhones Exhibit More Radiation Than Safety Limits
Independent investigations by Chicago Tribune, which was conducted in an accredited laboratory according to federal standards, found that radiofrequency radiation exposure from the iPhone 7 exceeds the safety limits set by the FCC. It is also more than double the number that Apple reported to the agency from the company's radiation tests.
Tribune went on to test three more brand new iPhone 7 units and every single one of them displayed radiation exposure results over the safety limits.
The results of the publication's tests prompted FCC to conduct its tests on the iPhone over the next few months.
"We take seriously any claims on non-compliance with the RF (radiofrequency) exposure standards and will be obtaining and testing the subject phones for compliance with FCC rules," FCC spokesperson Neil Grace said in a statement to Tribune.
The Tests And Worst Offenders
Chicago Tribune's investigations included 11 different models: Apple iPhone 7, 8, 8 Plus and X; Samsung Galaxy S8, S9 and J3; Motorola e5, e5 Play, and g6 Play; and BLU Vivo 5 Mini. Testing was conducted by the FCC-accredited RF Exposure Lab.
Apple's iPhone 7 and all the Samsung smartphones tested displayed much higher levels of exposure than FCC regulations, although both companies reiterated their adherence to safety standards in statements following the report.
"All iPhone models, including iPhone 7, are fully certified by the FCC and in every other country where iPhone is sold," a statement from Apple said, adding that the company reviewed and validated all the iPhone models included in the Tribune's report. "We confirmed we are in compliance and meet all applicable ... exposure guidelines and limits."
Samsung released its statement, brushing off the results as well.
"Samsung devices sold in the United States comply with FCC regulations," Samsung stated. "Our devices are tested according to the same test protocols that are used across the industry."
Harmful Effects Of Radiofrequency Radiation
While there is no conclusive evidence showing whether radiation from mobile phones affect the health or not, FCC says that there are ongoing studies and monitoring projects on the subject.
In general, exposure to high radiofrequency radiation levels has adverse effects on health due to the energy's ability to heat biological tissue quickly, in the same way, a microwave heats food.
