Apple to release an updated version of iPhone 12 addressing radiation concerns in France.

Apple has been urged to update its iPhone 12 in France due to concerns over radiation levels. The country's digital minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, revealed that Apple would release a software update specifically for users in France in the coming days. The decision to halt sales of the iPhone 12 was made by French regulators after detecting excessive electromagnetic radiation, and Apple was instructed to address the issue. Apple confirmed that the update would only be available for users in France, citing the presence of a specific testing protocol in the country. The company stated that the radiation findings were a result of this testing regime and assured users that it did not pose any safety concerns. However, this development raises questions about Apple's plans for the iPhone 12 in other countries, given that it was released just three years ago. Barrot stated that the radio frequency regulator (ANFR) will conduct tests on the new update to ensure compliance before allowing the iPhone 12 back on sale in France. The World Health Organization has previously declared that low-level electromagnetic fields emitted by mobile phones are not harmful to humans. Apple emphasized that the radiation finding in France was related to the country's testing protocol and not a safety issue. It reassured customers that the iPhone 12 complied with emissions regulations worldwide but acknowledged the update for users in France to accommodate the French regulatory protocol. If Apple fails to address the issue through software updates, the ANFR has warned that a recall of all iPhone 12 devices sold in France may be necessary. The regulator determined that the iPhone 12's Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) exceeded the legally allowed limit in France. Despite the setback in France, the iPhone 12 continues to be sold globally, having been released in September 2020. Apple has contested the ANFR's review, stating that it provided lab results from itself and third parties demonstrating compliance with relevant rules. However, Barrot has given Apple a two-week deadline and expressed concerns about the findings being shared with regulators across the European Union (EU). Regulators from Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany have announced that they are also investigating the issue. Germany's BNetzA network agency mentioned the possibility of implementing measures that would apply to all EU member states. As of now, no actions have been announced by the UK and the US following the French ban.