Although Apple has long recognized that iPhone 12 series and MagSafe accessories can interfere with medical devices, like pacemakers and defibrillators, it released additional guidance for people who use medical devices on Saturdays. The message: keep your iPhone 12 and MagSafe accessories a safe distance from your medical device.
In a supporting article, spotted by MacRumors, Apple explains that the iPhone 12 contains magnets as well as components and radios that emit electromagnetic fields. The company also stated that all of its MagSafe accessories also contain magnets, and that the MagSafe charger and MagSafe Duo charger contain radios. These magnets and electromagnetic fields can disrupt medical devices, Apple said.
“Medical devices such as implanted pacemakers and defibrillators may contain sensors that respond to magnets and radios when in close contact,” Apple wrote. “To avoid potential interaction with these devices, keep your iPhone and MagSafe accessories a safe distance from your device (more than 6 inches apart or more than 12 inches apart when charging wirelessly). But consult your doctor and the manufacturer of your device for specific guidelines. “
Defibrillators are devices that restore a person’s normal heart rate by sending an electrical pulse or shock to the heart. They can even help make the heart beat again if it suddenly stops. PacemakersMeanwhile, use electrical pulses to help the hearts beat at a normal pace and rhythm and to keep the heart chambers beating in sync so that the heart can pump blood more efficiently.
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Apple states that users should consult their doctors and medical device manufacturers for information about their specific devices. Users should ask if they need to keep a safe distance between their medical devices and their iPhone or MagSafe accessories. Apple reiterated this advice in the safety information section of the iPhone User Guide.
The safety of some of Apple’s latest products has been a concern in recent weeks after publication of a study written by researchers at the Henry Ford Heart and Vascular Institute who found evidence that the iPhone 12 can interfere with implantable cardioverter defibrillators, also known as ICDs.
The researchers stated that once the iPhone 12 – which has a circular array of magnets built into the back to allow it to snap onto a MagSafe charger or other accessory – was placed close to the medical device close to the patient’s heart, it device was suspended its operations.
Apple noted in its article that while the iPhone 12 series has more magnets than previous iPhone series, it “is not expected” to pose a greater risk of magnetic interference with medical devices than previous models.
This is not intended to specifically bash the iPhone 12 or MagSafe accessories. ICDs can be easily activated and deactivated by magnetic field sources including Fitbits or vape pens. However, this is important information to consider when choosing a new phone or when especially for those who rely on medical devices to stay healthy.
And if you think something is wrong, take word from Apple.
“If you suspect that the iPhone or MagSafe accessories are interfering with your medical device, stop using your iPhone or MagSafe accessories,” the company wrote.