Apple to update iPhone 12 software in France to settle radiation dispute
Apple has pledged to update the software on iPhone 12 handsets in France to settle a dispute over radiation levels. The move comes after France suspended sales of the phone earlier this week after tests found that it breached radiation exposure limits.
Apple has contested the findings, saying that the iPhone 12 is certified by multiple international bodies as compliant with global standards. However, the company has agreed to issue a software update to accommodate the testing methods used in France.
The software update will be released in the coming weeks, and Apple has said that it will not affect the performance or functionality of the iPhone 12.
The radiation warning in France has prompted concerns across Europe, and several other countries have now launched their own investigations into the iPhone 12. However, industry experts have said that there is no safety risk to users, as regulatory limits for radiation exposure are set well below levels where scientists have found evidence of harm.
Apple is the world's largest smartphone maker, and the iPhone 12 is one of its most popular models. The company's decision to update the software on the iPhone 12 in France is likely to be seen as a sign that it is taking the issue seriously.
Other European Countries Weigh In
In addition to France, several other European countries have now weighed in on the iPhone 12 radiation dispute.
- Belgium: The Belgian state secretary for digitalisation has asked Apple to upgrade the iPhone 12 software across EU countries, even though he said that based on the Belgian regulator's own preliminary review the handset presents no danger to users.
- Germany: Germany said it was in touch with French authorities to find a European Union-wide solution.
- Italy: Italy was set to ask Apple to upgrade the software on iPhone 12s there, according to a government source in Rome.
- The Netherlands: The Dutch Authority for Digital Infrastructure said it was also conducting its own investigation and was in contact with Apple as well as German and French authorities.
It remains to be seen whether Apple will agree to update the software on the iPhone 12 in other European countries, but the company's decision to do so in France is likely to put pressure on it to take similar action elsewhere.
Conclusion
Apple's decision to update the software on the iPhone 12 in France is a significant development in the ongoing radiation dispute. The move shows that the company is taking the issue seriously and is willing to work with regulators to address their concerns.
It remains to be seen whether Apple will agree to update the software on the iPhone 12 in other European countries, but the company's decision to do so in France is likely to put pressure on it to take similar action elsewhere.
The outcome of the dispute could have implications for the entire smartphone industry, as regulators around the world are increasingly scrutinising the health risks of mobile phone radiation.