The Dutch digital watchdog, the Nederlandse Rijksinspectie Digitale Infrastructuur (RDI), has launched an inquiry into the radiation exposure levels of Apple's iPhone 12. The investigation follows a report from France's Agence Nationale des Fréquences (ANFR) that raised concerns about the iPhone 12 breaching European Union radiation limits.
The ANFR tested the iPhone 12 and found that its Specific Absorption Rate (SAR), which measures radiofrequency energy absorbed by the body, exceeded legal limits when the phone was held in the hand or kept in a trouser pocket. The SAR limit in the EU is 4.0 watts per kilogram.
Apple has disputed the ANFR's findings, saying that the iPhone 12 has been certified by multiple international organizations as compliant with global radiation standards. The company has also provided lab results from Apple and third parties that it says demonstrate the phone's adherence to the French agency's requirements.
The RDI is now seeking clarification from Apple about the iPhone 12's radiation levels. The watchdog said that it will take appropriate action if it finds that the phone does not comply with EU radiation limits.
The investigation into the iPhone 12's radiation levels is significant because it could have implications for Apple's sales of the phone in the EU. If the RDI finds that the phone does not comply with EU radiation limits, Apple could be forced to recall the phone or stop selling it in the EU.
The investigation is also a reminder of the importance of adhering to established radiation safety standards in mobile devices. Mobile phones emit radiofrequency energy, which can be absorbed by the body. While the levels of radiofrequency energy emitted by mobile phones are generally considered to be safe, there is some concern that long-term exposure to high levels of radiofrequency energy could pose a health risk.
The RDI's investigation into the iPhone 12's radiation levels is ongoing. The watchdog said that it expects to complete its investigation within a few weeks.