France has imposed a ban on the sale of Apple’s iPhone 12 due to concerns over elevated radiation levels emitted by the popular smartphone, which exceed European safety standards. This decision has prompted other countries, including Belgium, to launch investigations into the matter.
The French regulatory agency conducted a test on the iPhone 12, which was released in 2020, and discovered that it emitted significantly higher levels of radiation when placed in a person’s pocket or held close to the body. The phone was found to emit nearly 2 watts per kilogram, surpassing the allowable limit set by European countries.
Apple, however, disputes these findings and claims that the iPhone 12 is certified by international bodies and complies with all regulations. The tech giant asserts that the phone is safe for use.
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To shed light on the issue, Dr. Tom Pitts, a board-certified neurologist, was consulted. Dr. Pitts explained that the radiation emitted by the iPhone 12 falls within the non-ionizing range of the electromagnetic spectrum and is not inherently injurious in the short term. However, he emphasized that there is a lack of long-term data regarding prolonged exposure to this level of radiation. He cited a study by the Chicago Tribune that suggested radiation levels could be even higher when the phone is held closer to the body.
The debate over smartphone radiation is not new, with previous concerns primarily centered around 4G and earlier generation phones. Dr. Pitts stressed the need for more robust studies, especially concerning the effects of 5G technology, to determine its long-term safety.
While the French regulatory agency has recommended a software update to address the radiation issue, it remains to be seen whether this solution will satisfy safety concerns. Dr. Pitts emphasized the importance of adhering to established safety standards and taking the matter seriously.
In light of these developments, questions have arisen about the broader use of smartphones and their potential health risks. Dr. Pitts emphasized the need for more extensive research to determine the safety of prolonged exposure to smartphone radiation, especially in the context of 5G technology.
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The potential long-term dangers of smartphone radiation are a topic of concern, and as Dr. Pitts mentioned, it is not unthinkable that people may look back at this point in history and question the health risks associated with smartphone usage.
As the debate over the safety of the iPhone 12 continues, it is clear that more research and scrutiny are needed to assess the potential health risks associated with prolonged smartphone use. In the meantime, France’s decision to ban the sale of the iPhone 12 has sparked international discussions and investigations into smartphone radiation levels, with implications for users worldwide.
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