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New York, USA (CNN) – Apple has warned customers that its smartphones may interfere with medical devices, including pacemakers.
In a notice posted on Apple’s support page on Saturday, the company expanded its previously released safety information, warning users that iPhones contain magnets and radios that emit electromagnetic fields, and “may interfere” with medical devices such as pacemakers. Implanted and defibrillators.
The notice specifically warns users of “magnets inside” all four types of “iPhone 12” phones, in addition to “magic” accessories.
And “Apple” indicates that versions of “iPhone 12” phones contain more magnets than previous “iPhone” phones, but also confirmed that they do not pose a greater risk of magnetic interference with medical devices compared to previous models.
Apple said in the notice that medical devices may contain sensors that may interact with magnets or radio waves close to each other.
The company recommends keeping “iPhone” and “MagSafe” devices at a “safe” distance away from medical devices, that is, it defines a distance of 15 centimeters, or about 38 centimeters, when charging wirelessly.
When Apple unveiled the iPhone 12 last fall, the company also announced the return of its phones’ MAGSafe feature – a popular feature previously found on MacBooks.
Customers can purchase “MagSafe” chargers to wirelessly charge their devices, and other magnetic accessories including bags and wallets that attach to the back of phones.
Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment on why it is now expanding its safety guidelines. But the Heart Rhythm Journal released a report earlier this month alleging that the magnets on the iPhone 12 that make it compatible with MagSafe accessories could interfere with defibrillators and implantable pacemakers.
Health experts have long warned against using cell phones or carrying them near implanted medical devices, for example in the pockets of shirts.
Apple said in the notice: “Consult your doctor and the manufacturer of the medical device for information about your medical device and whether you need to maintain a safe distance between your medical device and an iPhone or any mega-safe accessories. Manufacturers often make recommendations on the safe use of their devices about products. Wireless or magnetic to prevent potential interference. “
Apple also added that if a customer feels that their “iPhone 12” or “MagSafe” phone is interfering with their medical devices, they should stop using them.
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