New iPhones ‘might interfere’ with medical devices like pacemakers
An Apple a day may not keep the doctor away.
The tech giant announced on its support page over the weekend that the iPhone 12 models’ magnets and radios emit electromagnetic fields which “might interfere with medical devices.”
Implanted pacemakers and defibrillators are among the devices that could be affected by the Apple tech, thanks to sensors known to respond to nearby magnets and radios.
The company also warned of potential interference through the magnets in all MagSafe accessories, which are sold separately, including the MagSafe Charger and MagSafe Duo Charger, which have radios.
Despite the influx of magnets in iPhone 12 models — including the iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max — the phones’ potential magnetic interference is not believed riskier than that of earlier iPhones.
In order to avoid “potential interactions” between the devices, Apple recommended customers keep their iPhone and MagSafe accessories at least 6 inches away from the medical device. If the iPhone or MagSafe accessories are charging wirelessly, customers should keep their medical device at over 12 inches away.
“Consult your physician and medical device manufacturer for information specific to your medical device and whether you need to maintain a safe distance of separation between your medical device and iPhone or any MagSafe accessories,” Apple advised.
Those worried the phone or accessories could be interfering with their medical device are advised to stop using the iPhone and MagSafe products.
The notice expands on earlier issued safety information in which Apple acknowledged the electromagnetic fields emitted by “magnets as well as components and radios” in iPhone models.
