iPhone could produce higher levels of cancer-causing radiation than believed (2024)

Smartphones are known to emit radio frequency (RF) radiation which could be dangerous to human health.

Now it’s been claimed that an iPhone 11 Pro has been observed emitting radiation at levels which exceeded the US legal safety limit for mobile phone radiation emissions.

Cellphone radiation was named as a ‘possible carcinogen’ by the World Health Organization in 2011.

Since then, Apple has insisted it strictly adheres to US rules set out 24 years ago which govern how much radiation phones can produce.

To assess this claim RF Exposure Lab, an independent laboratory in California, tested an off-the-shelf iPhone 11 Pro.

It cranked up the iPhone and recorded the strength of the radiation it produces from a distance of 5mm – which represents the device being stored in a coat pocket kept close to the body.

Current radiofrequency radiation limits are set at 1.6 watts per kilogram in the US, but testers allegedthat the iPhone they tested produced radiation a 3.8 watts per kilogram – more than twice the legal limit.

Apple’s official figures claim its handsets are well within the legal limit.

The iPhone 7 it records a score of 1.19 at 5mm, and for the iPhone 11 Pro it dropped to around 1.16 watts per kg.

We have asked Apple for comment.

Ryan McCaughey is CTO of Penumbra Brands, the firm which funded the research.

He said that laws on phone radiation are out of data.

”The FCC limits are over 20 years old,’ he told IEEE Spectrum. ‘Some might argue that the limit is antiquated at this point.’

Last year, experts commissioned by the Chicago Tribune carried out tests using simulated human flesh with a smartphone placed 2mm away.

This is closer than some phone manufacturers place phones during their own radiation tests, with some analysing the devices from a distance of more than an inch from the sensor.

The paper claimed several models which produced radiation levels in excess of FCC guidelines – although both Apple and Samsung insisted their devices did not break regulations.

Apple said the testing method was ‘inaccurate’.

In a statement giving to the newspaper, Apple said: ‘All iPhone models, including iPhone 7, are fully certified by the FCC and in every other country where iPhone is sold.

‘After careful review and subsequent validation of all iPhone models tested in the report, we confirmed we are in compliance and meet all applicable … exposure guidelines and limits.’

Samsung also said: ‘Samsung devices sold in the United States comply with FCC regulations. Our devices are tested according to the same test protocols that are used across the industry.’

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iPhone could produce higher levels of cancer-causing radiation than believed (2024)

FAQs

Can radiation from Iphone cause cancer? ›

Cell phones emit low levels of non-ionizing radiation when in use. The type of radiation emitted by cell phones is also referred to as radio frequency (RF) energy. As stated by the National Cancer Institute, "there is currently no consistent evidence that non-ionizing radiation increases cancer risk in humans.

Does the Iphone emit radiation? ›

Do cell phones give off (emit) radiation? Yes – cell phones and cordless phones use radiofrequency radiation (RF) to send signals. RF is different from other types of radiation (like x-rays) that we know can be harmful. We don't know for sure if RF radiation from cell phones can cause health problems years later.

Which Iphone gives off the most radiation? ›

These five models emit some of the strongest radiation on the market: Motorola Edge ( 1.79 w/kg); OnePlus 6T (1.55 w/kg); Sony Xperia XA2 Plus (1.41 w/kg) Google Pixel 3 XL (1.39 w/kg); and the Google Pixel 4a (1.37 w/kg) in a tie with the Oppo Reno5 5G (1.37 w/kg).

Do older iphones emit more radiation? ›

According to the investigation and testing done by the Chicago Tribune, it has been observed that older smartphones emit radiations that are almost five times more than the levels permitted by the FCC. The shocking fact about the report is that a lot of flagship smartphones from Apple and Samsung are on the list.

Is it bad to sleep next to your phone? ›

Is it bad to sleep with your phone beside you? Yes, usually speaking, it's not a good idea to sleep with your phone nearby. Sleep quality may suffer if you keep your phone close to your head while trying to slumber because it emits electromagnetic radiation.

How far away should your phone be when you sleep? ›

Keep your cell phone at least 3 feet away from your bed to limit radio frequency exposure. Turn your cell phone off before you go to bed (if you don't rely on your phone's alarm clock) Turn your phone on Airplane Mode.

Does turning off iPhone stop radiation? ›

Turn it off.

Phones only emit radio-frequency radiation when they're searching for or receiving a signal, so a phone that's off or in “airplane mode” is safe.

Which iPhone has lowest radiation? ›

The Apple iPhones with the lowest radiation (SAR) score
ModelSAR at ear/head
Apple – iPhone 11 (Model A2221)0.95
Apple – iPhone 11 Pro Max (Model 2218)0.95
Apple – iPhone 13 mini0.97
Apple – iPhone 12 / mini / max0.98
2 more rows

Does iPhone emit more radiation than Android? ›

According to test reports filed with the FCC, without Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, iPhone SARs ranged from 1.09 to 1.19 W/kg as compared to 0.62 to 0.64 W/kg for Galaxy phones (see results below).

Does mobile phone radiation affect the brain? ›

Mobile phone-emitted radiation, i.e., radio frequency-modulated electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs), is absorbed to more than 80% by the head [7], enters the human brain [8,9,10], increases circ*mscribed glucose turnover underneath the antenna [11], elevates cortical excitability upon motor-evoked potentials [12], and ...

Does WIFI emit radiation? ›

Wi-Fi equipment emits radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (EMF). Other commonly used household products also emit radiofrequency EMF. These products include: cordless phones.

How do I check my phone for radiation? ›

Type in *#07# and click call. This will redirect you to a part of the settings on your phone. Click on RF Exposure. Scroll down to the link to a webpage with information for your device.

Which phone is safer Samsung or iPhone? ›

Android phones are generally considered less secure than iPhones thanks to Apple's focus on encryption. But both are more susceptible to hackers thanks to their popularity. The more people who use a phone, the more high value a target it presents to hackers.

What devices give off the most radiation? ›

Sources of radiation
  • microwave ovens.
  • computers.
  • smart meters.
  • wireless (Wi-Fi) routers.
  • cellphones.
  • Bluetooth devices.
  • power lines.
  • MRI machines.
Jul 8, 2021

Does airplane mode stop radiation? ›

Get to Know Airplane Mode

“Airplane mode”, also known as “flight mode,” is a setting on your wireless device that stops the microwave radiation emissions. It turns antennas to OFF. Learning how to use airplane mode is one of our most important tips.

Is it bad to sleep next to a charging phone? ›

Don't charge any electrical devices, including phones and tablets, on your bed or under your pillow while you sleep as they could overheat and cause a fire. If possible, avoid charging devices unattended or overnight, and when necessary only charge them on a hard surface such as a desk.

Where should I put my phone when sleeping? ›

Your phone should be left outside the bedroom when you decide to sleep. However, if you rely on your phone as an alarm clock, place it somewhere as far as possible from the bed, and turn off any notifications unrelated to the alarm clock.

How far away should your phone be from your face? ›

2. Keep a Sensible Distance. You should be able to see everything on your phone screen from between 16 and 18 inches away. Don't hold your phone too close, but if you find yourself bringing the phone closer, consider zooming in on your screen instead.

Why is it bad to charge your phone in your room? ›

This practice can be extremely dangerous as the heat generated cannot dissipate and the charger will become hotter and hotter. The likely result is that the pillow, covers, or your bed will catch fire. This places the sleeper, as well as everyone else in the home, in great danger without even realizing it.

Why checking your phone in the morning is bad? ›

In skipping these states and checking your phone right after waking up you are priming your brain for distraction. Seeing or reading something negative first thing in the morning can trigger your stress response and put you on edge for the rest of the day.

Why put phone on airplane mode at night? ›

Mistake: Sleeping with your cell phone

Cell phones pump out electromagnetic radiation whenever they're on - which means sleeping with one nearby boosts your exposure all night long. What to do? Put the phone on "airplane mode" (which shuts down the transceiver) or turn it off.

What are the symptoms of EMF radiation? ›

The symptoms most commonly experienced include dermatological symptoms (redness, tingling, and burning sensations) as well as neurasthenic and vegetative symptoms (fatigue, tiredness, concentration difficulties, dizziness, nausea, heart palpitation, and digestive disturbances).

How can we reduce radiation in our body? ›

Removing clothing and shoes eliminates about 90 percent of external contamination. Gently washing with water and soap removes additional radiation particles from the skin. Decontamination prevents radioactive materials from spreading more.

What are the side effects of EMF radiation? ›

Some members of the public have attributed a diffuse collection of symptoms to low levels of exposure to electromagnetic fields at home. Reported symptoms include headaches, anxiety, suicide and depression, nausea, fatigue and loss of libido.

What is the safest cell phone? ›

Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra

Your Note 20 Ultra has multi-layered security created by this security platform. You will get security improvements designed expressly for the Android OS, encryption, and TrustZone architecture to safeguard critical data.

How can I prevent radiation from my phone? ›

Use speaker mode, head phones, or ear buds to place more distance between your head and the cell phone. Avoid making calls when the signal is weak as this causes cell phones to boost RF transmission power. Consider texting rather than talking - but don't text while you are driving.

What is Apple safest phone? ›

Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max

Apple's products have long been considered highly secure, though in recent years the likes of NSO Group and its Pegasus spyware have highlighted even the seemingly impenetrable hardware has its weaknesses if you probe it hard enough.

Which is safer iPhone or Android? ›

security. While iOS may be considered more secure, it's not impossible for cybercriminals to hit iPhones or iPads with malicious software. Because of this, the owners of both Android and iOS devices need to be aware of possible malware and viruses, and be careful when downloading apps from third-party app stores.

Which phones give off the least radiation? ›

Lowest Radiation Cell Phones of 2023
RankPhoneCarrier
1.ZTE Blade V10Unlocked
2.Samsung Galaxy Note 8Unlocked
2a.ZTE Axon EliteUnlocked
3.Verykool Vortex RS90Unlocked
19 more rows
Jan 6, 2023

Is iPhone much safer than Android? ›

So what is more secure: Android or iOS? Studies show that mobile malware targets Android much more than iOS, so for this reason, and all the others stated in this article, iOS is more secure. While you can remove malware from Android and iPhone, it's better not to get it in the first place.

How does cell phone radiation affect the human body? ›

Energy from ionizing radiation can damage DNA. DNA damage can cause changes to genes that may increase the risk of cancer. The NCI fact sheet Electromagnetic Fields and Cancer lists sources of radiofrequency radiation. More information about ionizing radiation can be found on the Radiation page.

How much radiation is safe? ›

The annual limit for radiation exposure for a member of the public is 1 mSv per annum or 1000 µSv per annum. If you are designated a radiation worker than you can receive up to twenty times this. I.e. 20 mSv per annum.

Can phone radiation cause memory loss? ›

That memory impairment might be one side-effect of the radiation that phones use to keep us connected while we're on the go. Nearly 700 Swiss teens took part in a test of figural memory. This type helps us recall abstract symbols and shapes, explains Milena Foerster.

Is it bad to sleep next to Wi-Fi router? ›

' While the radiation from your router isn't necessarily dangerous, Isabella explains that it is still a source of EMF radiation that could cause restlessness. 'Turning WiFi off overnight will help ensure that you get an uninterrupted night's sleep and wake up feeling refreshed,' she says.

Is it safe to sleep near Wi-Fi router? ›

These guidelines recognize that too much exposure to electromagnetic field (EMF) radiation can harm the human body, particularly at close distances. While maintaining a safe distance from the WiFi router can greatly reduce your exposure to its radiation, keeping the router in your bedroom is not recommendable.

Should I turn off WiFi at night? ›

In a word, yes. Turning your WiFi router off at night drastically reduces exposure to unnecessary radiation. You'll also save energy in the process.

What is *# 07? ›

You can also check the SAR level by dialling a number. The number is *#07#. When you dial the number, the phone will automatically show the SAR level. If it is more than 1.6 W/Kg, it will harm you.

Are there apps to check radiation? ›

ElectroSmart: The Best Free EMF Meter App / EMF Detector App on Android. ElectroSmart is a Radiofrequency Electromagnetic-Field (EMF) detector, also known as EMF Detector or EMF Meter. ElectroSmart runs in the background to provide daily statistics on your exposure and exposure alerts, anywhere, anytime.

Why Android is better than iPhone? ›

You Want More Freedom, Control, and Customizations

Since Android is an open-source platform, it offers more freedom and customization options than iOS. You can customize almost anything on your Android device, from how your home screen looks to how you interact with your phone.

Why are iPhones so much better than Samsung? ›

Fast processors for better performance

The iPhones have a series of processors that reportedly deliver better performance than most Android phones. In addition, Apple blends hardware and software well, making the iPhone more efficient and effective.

What blocks all radiation? ›

Shielding: Barriers of lead, concrete, or water provide protection from penetrating gamma rays. Gamma rays can pass completely through the human body; as they pass through, they can cause damage to tissue and DNA. and x-rays.

What is the most harmful radiation to living things? ›

Gamma rays are the most harmful external hazard. Beta particles can partially penetrate skin, causing “beta burns”. Alpha particles cannot penetrate intact skin.

Which is the biggest source of harmful radiation in the home? ›

Radon gas poses a health risk not only to uranium miners but also to homeowners if it is left to accumulate in the home. On average, it is the largest source of natural radiation exposure.

How far away from your body should your cell phone be? ›

Increase your distance from the phone. Putting a few inches (at best four or more feet) between you and your device will considerably reduce the amount of radiation absorbed by your body. Keeping your phone out of your bedroom at night will minimize radiation and promote healthy sleeping habits!

How far away should my phone be when I sleep? ›

Keep your cell phone at least 3 feet away from your bed to limit radio frequency exposure. Turn your cell phone off before you go to bed (if you don't rely on your phone's alarm clock) Turn your phone on Airplane Mode.

Do electric blankets emit EMF when turned off? ›

This pioneering work was performed by Dr. Nancy Wertheimer and Ed Leeper, who originally discovered that magnetic fields were linked to childhood leukemia. Similar health effects have been noted with users of many electric blankets, and waterbed heaters will emit EMFs even when turned off.

Is Apple phone radiation safe? ›

Can iPhone Radiation Hurt You? Probably not. The radiation given off by iPhones isn't ionizing and is on the lower end of the electromagnetic spectrum, far from being dangerous like a UV light. Your iPhone will definitely not make you sick after using it for a few days.

What are the symptoms of phone radiation? ›

If RF radiation is high enough, it has a 'thermal' effect, which means it raises body temperature. There are concerns that the low levels of RF radiation emitted by mobile phones could cause health problems such as headaches or brain tumours.

How far should cell phone be from radiation? ›

Increase your distance from the phone. Putting a few inches (at best four or more feet) between you and your device will considerably reduce the amount of radiation absorbed by your body. Keeping your phone out of your bedroom at night will minimize radiation and promote healthy sleeping habits!

How do I check my iPhone radiation? ›

To find the SAR for your iPhone:
  1. Open up your dial pad as though you're about to make a call.
  2. Type in *#07# and click call.
  3. This will redirect you to a part of the settings on your phone.
  4. Click on RF Exposure.
  5. Scroll down to the link to a webpage with information for your device.

What diseases are caused by mobile phones? ›

Psychological Effects of Cell Phone Addiction
  • Sleep disturbances. Cell phone addiction has been linked to an increase in sleep disorders and fatigue in users. ...
  • Depression. ...
  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. ...
  • Relationship problems. ...
  • Anxiety.

How can you protect yourself from cell phone radiation? ›

Use speaker mode, head phones, or ear buds to place more distance between your head and the cell phone. Avoid making calls when the signal is weak as this causes cell phones to boost RF transmission power. Consider texting rather than talking - but don't text while you are driving.

Should you keep your phone in your pocket? ›

In your pocket

When cell phones are on, connected to a wireless network, and placed in a pocket, the radiation is two to seven times higher than if it were placed in a purse or holster,” she says. There is a correlation between radiation from a cell phone and tumor growth, she adds.

Why do people have 2 phones? ›

Having two phones means that you can have one phone for personal communication and for entertainment. You can dedicate the other phone for business calls and messages. This helps you conserve battery life since one phone won't have to do it all.

Does radiation from mobile cause memory loss? ›

Increasing exposure to mobile devices negatively affects the figural memory of adolescents, revealed a recent study by the researchers at Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH). Figural memory, which helps us make sense of images, patterns and shapes, is located in the right hemisphere of the brain.

Should I be worried about phone radiation? ›

They don't have enough energy to cause cancer by directly damaging the DNA (genes) inside cells. RF waves are different from stronger (ionizing) types of radiation such as x-rays, gamma rays, and ultraviolet (UV) rays. Ionizing radiation can break the chemical bonds in DNA, which might lead to cancer.

What are the symptoms of EMF poisoning? ›

The symptoms most commonly experienced include dermatological symptoms (redness, tingling, and burning sensations) as well as neurasthenic and vegetative symptoms (fatigue, tiredness, concentration difficulties, dizziness, nausea, heart palpitation, and digestive disturbances).

Does Wi-Fi emit radiation? ›

Wi-Fi equipment emits radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (EMF). Other commonly used household products also emit radiofrequency EMF. These products include: cordless phones.

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