Just a few days ago, France’s radiation oversight authority, ANFR, imposed a ban on the sale of iPhone 12 due to radiation levels exceeding European Union standards. Initially, Apple had refuted these claims, but they have now announced plans to release a software update aimed at resolving the concerns raised by France.
Apple’s decision to take this step came in response to ANFR’s implicit threat of recalling all iPhone 12 Series devices previously sold in France unless immediate action was taken to rectify the issue. While Apple’s statement acknowledges their intention to release a software update, the specific details regarding how this update will mitigate radiation emissions have not been disclosed.
Nevertheless, Apple remains confident that this forthcoming software update for the iPhone 12 will align the device with the rigorous testing standards enforced by France. Notably, France maintains stricter regulations than many other countries, encompassing radiation assessments not only near the head and body but also during handheld use—a crucial distinction that may explain the iPhone 12’s previous failure to meet compliance.
Following France’s decisive action, the governments of Belgium, Germany, and Italy have joined in urging Apple to extend this update to all European Union member states. France’s own authorities intend to conduct a reevaluation of the iPhone 12’s radiation levels after the software update is deployed, potentially paving the way for a resumption of sales if emissions fall within the permissible limits.
