Understand the ban Apple suffered in France. Find out the reasons.
After France issued a warning that the iPhone 12 had breached one of the radiation levels set by regulators, three other countries also said they would look into whether there were any health risks. Authorities stressed that the investigation must take place across Europe.
The French National Frequencies Agency (ANFR) announced this past Wednesday (13) that the iPhone 12 will be withdrawn from the French market as of September 12, 2023 if it exceeds the specific absorption rate (SAR) limit for this model. Read on and see which European countries are investigating the iPhone.
European countries are concerned
Germany announced on Thursday (14) that its federal health agency is in contact with French authorities to monitor the investigation. The Netherlands said it was equally concerned about the issue and would soon request an official explanation from the tech giant. Belgium, the last country to respond, said it would also look into potential health risks associated with Apple's iPhone 12.
According to Reuters, the likelihood of a new sales ban in Europe has increased after Paris decided to suspend sales of the iPhone 12 until Apple resolves radiation issues discovered in two tests. Belgium's Secretary of State for Digitalization, Mathieu Michel, said his mission is to ensure the safety of all citizens. For this reason, he immediately contacted the IBPT-BIPT (regulatory body) and requested an analysis of the potential risks of the product. Michel also requested a review of all smartphones and devices manufactured by Apple.
Along with Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands, Italy said it had not yet taken any measures but was monitoring the situation.
What Apple says
Apple said the iPhone 12, released in 2020, was certified by several international organizations as compliant with radiation standards. The company disputed the French findings. The tech company’s massive sales in Europe reached $95 billion last year, making it the second-largest region in terms of revenue after the United States.
Ban in China
According to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ), China has banned government employees from using iPhones at work. The decision comes amid rising tensions between the United States and China.
Employees were informed of the ban by their superiors through a request or in-person meeting. According to the WSJ, the guidance was sent to the heads of government agencies, but it is not yet known how many people will be affected or which industries will be banned.
The blockade came just days before Apple’s September 12 event. The products have raised concerns about the Chinese regime, which is seeking to reduce its dependence on foreign technology. For more than a decade, China has encouraged domestic companies to adopt Chinese systems and products to take advantage of the country’s semiconductor chip manufacturing. That may be one reason for the iPhone ban. The country stepped up its campaign in 2020 after regime leaders proposed a so-called “dual-cycle” growth model to reduce dependence on foreign markets.
