Apple Updates iPhone 12 Software in France After Radiation Flag

Apple has issued a software update for the iPhone 12 after French authorities signaled they might ban sales of the device after it was reported for exposing users to radiation.

France’s National Frequency Agency (ANFR) first flagged the issue on Sept. 12 after tests revealed that the iPhone 12, initially released three years ago, generated electromagnetic energy (EMF) — particularly, radio-frequency radiation — above the country’s limits. Some scientists believe that exposure to EMF radiation could affect hormone levels and potentially up the odds of some cancers.

Apple’s software patch essentially weakens the phones’ modem, which means it changes the power output of the phone, and in turn, lowers the EMF radiation.

France had temporarily suspended the sale of the device and the ANFR gave Apple 15 days to fix the problem or risk a full product recall. Although Apple continues to contest the results of the test, the software update is designed to soothe the government’s concerns. 

French authorities are reviewing the patch, a source at France’s digital ministry told Reuters on Tuesday.

Other European countries, including Germany, Belgium, The Netherlands and Italy, are closely watching the outcome of the French reviews before taking any actions, including requiring software updates for devices in their jurisdictions.