Apple to Curb iPhone 12 Radiation With EU-Wide Software Update
Apple has confirmed plans to roll out a major fix for iPhone 12 users across Europe. The company announced that it will release an EU-wide software update to curb iPhone 12 radiation, ensuring the device complies with the region’s strict health and safety standards.
The move mirrors a September 2023 update in France, where Apple was required to modify the iPhone 12 to align with local testing protocols. At the time, French regulators halted iPhone 12 sales after finding the device exceeded electromagnetic absorption limits. Apple was then ordered to update existing devices to meet radiation compliance rules.
Why the EU-Wide Update Matters
The European Commission recently backed France’s regulatory stance, calling its decision “justified.” This endorsement prompted Apple to expand its compliance fix across all 27 EU member states. According to Apple, the software update will begin rolling out “in the coming weeks.”
For users, this means iPhone 12 models will soon receive the same adjustment applied in France, reducing radiation exposure to fall within the EU’s Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) limits.
Apple Pushes Back on Testing Methods
Despite agreeing to the update, Apple continues to question the testing process used by France’s Agence Française Nationale des Fréquences (ANFR). The company argues that the ANFR failed to consider the iPhone 12’s off-body detection mechanism, a system designed to keep radiation levels in check during real-world use.
Apple insists that this feature has been “thoroughly tested and verified internationally” and remains confident in the device’s safety. In a statement, the company said:
“We continue to disagree with the French ANFR's testing approach, [but] respect the European Commission's decision. Customers can use their iPhone 12 with full confidence, just as they always have.”
What iPhone 12 Users Should Expect
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Automatic software rollout: The update will be pushed across all iPhone 12 devices in the EU.
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Radiation compliance: Devices will meet SAR limits set by European health regulators.
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No change to performance: Apple has not indicated any impact on performance or battery life.
For consumers, the update provides reassurance that their devices are safe to use under EU standards, even if Apple still disputes the testing methodology.
With the Apple to curb iPhone 12 radiation with EU-wide software update move, millions of users across Europe will see their devices adjusted to meet regional safety rules. While Apple stands by its hardware design, this compliance step ensures peace of mind for regulators and consumers alike.
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