Apple has responded to a recent order by the French radiation watchdog, ANFR, to halt sales of the iPhone 12 in France. ANFR cited breaches of European exposure limits for radiofrequency energy emitted by the phone.
In a statement, Apple said that it had provided ANFR with multiple sets of data, including results from both Apple and independent third-party laboratories, which demonstrate compliance with SAR regulations and standards globally. Apple is contesting ANFR's findings and has expressed its commitment to engage with the agency to demonstrate its adherence to the required standards.
SAR stands for Specific Absorption Rate and measures the rate at which radiofrequency energy is absorbed by the body from a device. The European standard for SAR is 2.0 watts per kilogram averaged over 10 grams of tissue.
ANFR's tests indicated an absorption rate of 5.74 watts per kilogram when simulating the iPhone 12's usage in hand or kept in a trouser pocket, surpassing the European standard.
However, ANFR also noted that the iPhone 12 met the so-called body-SAR standards when placed in a jacket pocket or bag. These standards are more lenient because the phone is less likely to be held close to the body in these scenarios.
The order by ANFR to halt sales of the iPhone 12 is a setback for Apple, which has seen strong sales of the phone in France. The company is likely to appeal the order and is also exploring other options, such as modifying the iPhone 12 to meet the European standard.
The dispute between Apple and ANFR is a reminder of the challenges that smartphone manufacturers face in complying with regulations around the world. SAR limits vary from country to country, and it can be difficult for manufacturers to design phones that meet all of the requirements.
The outcome of the dispute between Apple and ANFR could have implications for other smartphone manufacturers that sell their products in France. It could also lead to changes in the way that SAR standards are set and enforced.