Your iPhone 12 and its fancy list of MagSafe accessories may not be particularly safe to use for those with any heart ailment, reveals a new study from Heart Rhythm. According to the report, the iPhone 12’s new configuration of magnets can make the device a potential health hazard for those using implanted pacemakers or defibrillators, therefore leaving a chance to create a potentially life-threatening environment. Based on this, Apple has issued an advisory in the form of a support document, which warns users with heart conditions to keep devices at a safe distance from their bodies.
The advisory states that any iPhone 12 series smartphone should be kept at least 6 inches or 15 cm apart from the heart, and at least 12 inches or 30 cm apart if the device is being wirelessly charged or being used with a MagSafe accessory. The reason for this is the stronger array of magnets, components and radios, which include a magnetometer and a single-coil NFC reader at the centre of the device, all of which may cause stronger interference with any heart implant if the device is placed in breast pockets.
Apple’s advisory on this matter reads, “Though all iPhone 12 models contain more magnets than prior iPhone models, they’re not expected to pose a greater risk of magnetic interference to medical devices than prior iPhone models. 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. Manufacturers often provide recommendations on the safe use of their devices around wireless or magnetic products to prevent possible interference. If you suspect iPhone or any MagSafe accessories are interfering with your medical device, stop using your iPhone or MagSafe accessories.”
While Apple maintains that its new iPhones and the way they work do not pose any greater threat to the human body than older iPhones, the advisory should be paid heed to with utmost care and concern, especially for older users who may have any heart implants as stated. If any user is suspecting concerns around the heart or related issues arising after the purchase of an iPhone 12, they are advised to consult their doctor at the earliest, and until proven, keep the phone away at a safe distance while using.
