Radiation Controversy: France Halts Sales of Apple's iPhone 12

PARIS, September 12 - According to Reuters, during a recent interview with Le Parisien, Jean-Noel Barrot, France's Minister Delegate for Digital Economy, stated that Apple must immediately cease the sale of its iPhone 12 model in the French market due to radiation levels exceeding legally allowed thresholds. This decision comes after extensive testing conducted by France's National Frequency Agency (ANFR), which revealed that the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) of the smartphone slightly exceeds the limit authorized by regulatory standards.

Barrot emphasized that concerns regarding radiation associated with the iPhone 12 could be effectively addressed through a software update. He stated that Apple must provide a comprehensive response within two weeks. Additionally, he highlighted that if Apple fails to respond, he is fully prepared to initiate a recall of all currently circulating iPhone 12 devices. It is crucial to underline that the principle of compliance uniformity applies universally, including to technology industry giants like Apple.

Jean-Noël Barrot's post on X (Twitter).

The European Union has established strict safety parameters for SAR values in the context of mobile phone usage, with potential associations to certain forms of cancer based on scientific findings. France's decisive move in this regard will result in sharing its findings with regulatory authorities in other EU member states, potentially exerting widespread influence in the region.

It is worth noting that in 2020, France took a proactive step by expanding its regulatory framework, requiring retailers to disclose radiation values not only for mobile phones but also for a wide range of electronic devices, including tablets and other technological products, directly on their packaging. This underscores France's unwavering commitment to ensuring public safety in the technology sector.