French Watchdog Agency Calls for iPhone 12 Recall Due to High Radiation Levels

The French National Frequency Agency has ordered Apple to pull the iPhone 12 off the market owing to excessive electromagnetic radiation levels. The regulatory body, which oversees radio-electric frequencies and public exposure to electromagnetic radiation, urged Apple to fix the problem for existing phones on Tuesday.

The government agency claims that remedial updates to lower radiation levels will be constantly monitored. The regulator has warned that Apple could be forced to recall iPhones that have already been sold if these upgrades don't fix the issue.

Apple has disputed the agency's conclusions, claiming that the iPhone 12 conforms to all radiation-related laws. The manufacturer underlined that the product complies with worldwide radiation emission requirements and has obtained certification from several international organizations.

What Does France's iPhone 12 Radiation Levels Findings Say?

When tested in hand or pocket settings, the iPhone 12 displayed electromagnetic energy absorption levels of 5.74 watts per kilogram, according to the ANFR (Agence Nationale des Fréquences), which examined 141 smartphones, including the model, according to AP News. This measurement exceeds the EU 4 watts per kilogram guideline. However, when radiation levels were measured with the phone inside a jacket or bag, the iPhone 12 passed the permissible threshold.

The involvement of the ANFR in monitoring cellphone emissions was recognized by Jean-Noel Barrot, France's Minister in Charge of Digital Matters. The radiation levels released by the iPhone 12 were somewhat higher than accepted guidelines, although they were still far below levels determined by scientific tests to be potentially dangerous.

China's iPhone Ban

France's call for the iPhone 12 withdrawal coincided with Apple's iPhone 15 launch, according to BBC. The iPhone 15 stands out for adding a different charging connector, the first modification of this sort since 2012. According to Apple, consumers may continue using their old wires with the help of an adaptor.

Additionally, the Chinese Foreign Ministry refuted media reports that claimed government organizations had ordered employees to stop using iPhones. The government made it abundantly clear that no laws, regulations, or policies forbid the use of Apple devices in China.