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France To Allow Apple To Sell iPhone 12s Again After Meeting Radiation Standards

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France may now allow Apple to sell their 12th generation iPhone model after weeks of the nation citing the device’s alleged high levels of electromagnetic radiation. Now, Apple has apparently met France’s electromagnetic radiation standards, allowing the company to start selling the phone again. 

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France’s L’Agence Nationale des Fréquences, or ANFR, confirmed this week that the iPhone 12 met the standards after Apple issued a new software patch for the phone.

According to Gizmodo, the agency stated they tested the phone’s specific radiation absorption rate, which measures the level of radio waves emitted by the device, and found that the iPhone 12 was back in compliance with the nation’s standards after the patch. 

Once Apple patches all iPhone 12s, they will be able to sell the devices in France again. 

It was about two weeks ago that France initially put a stop to the sales of iPhone 12s throughout the country after the ANFR claimed the device didn’t meet radiation standards. Other nations such as Belgium and Germany followed suit and began testing the devices themselves as well. 

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Apple has consistently claimed that the issue isn’t actually with their phones, but instead with France’s, and the EU in general’s, testing standards. They stated that the new software patch simply “accommodates” the testing protocols. 

According to Gizmodo, “The ANFR said the tests were performed by an accredited laboratory and found the SAR was 3.94 W/kg (watt per kilogram) after the update compared to 5.74 W/kg before the update. The measurements were taken when phones are kept close to the body, such as inside a user’s pocket.”

“France and other EU countries have placed limits on the amount of electromagnetic radiation that can be absorbed by a body. According to the French regulatory agency, the country monitors all waves between 100 kHz and 10 GHz,” the publication explained. 

According to the World Health Organization, there isn’t any definitive science that proves there are major health consequences to exposure from low-level electromagnetic fields and waves. However, the recent wave of 5G conspiracy theories spreading online hasn’t helped when it comes to people worrying about radiation in their personal devices. 

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Apple Warns That iPhone’s Should Be Kept 6 Inches Away From Pacemaker’s

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Apple is currently warning customers that its smartphones could potentially interfere with certain medical devices, including pacemakers. In a notice published on Apple’s support page, the company expanded upon previously issued safety warnings against holding your iPhone close to pacemakers or defibrillators due to the fact that the phones contain magnets and radios that emit electromagnetic fields that could “interfere” with the medical devices. 

The notice specifically warns users about “the magnets inside all four iPhone 12 models, as well as MagSafe accessories. iPhone 12 versions contain more magnets than prior iPhone models, but they don’t pose a greater risk of magnetic interference with medical devices than earlier models.”

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In the update Apple explained that medical devices such as pacemakers contain sensors that could react to magnet or radio waves that come in extremely close proximity to it. The company recommends keeping iPhone’s and MagSafe chargers at a “safe distance away from medical devices, which would be at more than 6 inches apart, or 15 inches apart when wirelessly charging.”

When Apple initially announced the iPhone 12 last fall, they also unveiled the return of MagSafe charging for the iPhone and wireless charging docks that would allow users to charge their devices more easily. Other magnetic accessories such as cases and wallets were also released and meant to attach to the back of the phones. 

Apple didn’t respond to questions over why it was specifically expanding upon their safety guidelines now, however, many believe it’s due to the fact that the Heart Rhythm Journal released a report earlier this month that claimed the magnets in the iPhone 12 that make it compatible with MagSafe accessories could interfere with an implanted defibrillator. 

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These warnings, however, aren’t that new within the medical community. Health experts have always cautioned patients with implanted medical devices not to hold cell phones too close to where the implantation is; this was in response to a slew of individuals who held their smartphones in their front shirt pocket.  

Apple warned in the notice that users should “consult your physician and medical device manufacturer for information specific to your medical device and whether you need to maintain a safe distance of separation between your medical device and iPhone or any MagSafe accessories. Manufacturers often provide recommendations on the safe use of their devices around wireless or magnetic products to prevent possible interference.”

Apple also said if a user feels like any of their devices are interfering with their medical implantation’s then they should immediately stop using their phone or MagSafe accessory and speak with a physician. Another warning issued by the company claimed that iPhone 12 users specifically should avoid placing credit cards, security badges, or passports between your phone and MagSafe charger, as the magnets could damage the magnetic strips and readers on those items.

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What To Expect From Apple’s Virtual Event And How To Watch

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The day is finally here, after weeks of production delays brought on by the pandemic, Apple is projected to release their new line of iPhone’s along with a whole slew of other products today, October 13th, during a virtual event that will begin at 10 a.m. Pacific Time. 

In terms of the iPhone 12 and other predictions for what’s to be revealed today, it’s important to note that so far these are all just predictions, however, many of them are based on professional tech blogs and workers who have made correct predictions in the past about the iPhone’s we’ve already seen on the market. 

The iPhone 12 is likely to be the first major revamp of the phone’s physical design since 2017, when Apple revealed the iPhone X which no longer had a home button and used facial recognition technology to unlock the device. Analyst Daniel Ives wrote in a note to investors that this event will be a “once in a decade” moment for the tech giant. 

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“We believe iPhone 12 represents the most significant product cycle for Apple since iPhone 6 in 2014, and it will be another defining chapter in the Apple growth story looking ahead despite a softer consumer spending environment.”

The theme of this year’s event is “speed,” which could mean a variety of things, however, the biggest prediction based on the theme itself is that the next iPhone will have 5G capabilities, a faster chipset, faster display refresh rate, and more! Some individuals also believe that the new line of iPhones will have fingerprint unlocking capabilities through the power or volume buttons, for those who opt not to use the facial recognition feature.

Specifically, Apple is projected to launch the iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max. The Mini is expected to have a 5.4 inch display and will be available in the standard 64 GB, 128 GB, and 256 GB models. 

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The standard iPhone 12 will feature a 6.1 inch display and have the same storage capacity options as the mini. The iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max will have a 6.2 inch display and their storage configuration will likely begin at 128 GB based on past Pro Max iPhone models. The iPhone 12 series is set to begin pricing at $699 with the Mini and will likely go up to $1099 for the Pro models. 

The iPhone 12 series isn’t the only thing fans are looking forward to being announced this afternoon. It’s predicted that Apple will also be releasing over-ear wireless headphones called Airpods Studio, as well as a potential upgrade to HomePod speakers as well. 

Apple might also finally give consumers AirTags, which is something they’ve been teasing for quite some time now. Airtags would work as a GPS tracking service for things like your keys, phone, laptop, or anything else you find yourself consistently using. With the help of Bluetooth technology, one can just log onto any of their devices and track down whatever object they’re looking for that they’ve tagged. 

The Apple event is online-only today due to the Covid-19 pandemic, however, this also means anyone can watch it. Normally, patrons would have to wait until after the event to see all the products launched, but now, customers can simply go onto Apple’s Website at 10 a.m. PT, which is 1 p.m. ET, 6 p.m. BST and 4 a.m. AEDT on Oct. 14.

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What Tech Experts Are Expecting From Apple’s Upcoming Announced Fall Event

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The tech giant officially announced this week that they would be hosting a major event on September 15th, however, they have yet to reveal any details as to what consumers can expect to be revealed.

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Apple To Potentially Discontinue iPhone XR, iPhone 11 Pro After iPhone 12 Release

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The iPhone 12 is currently projected to be released in October of this year. As the Keynote event gets closer and closer, many tech experts and blogs are placing their final bets for what’s to come with Apple’s newest smartphone upgrade. One of the most circulated rumors currently is reporting that Apple will discontinue the iPhone 11 Pro and the iPhone XR model once the 12 is finally released. 

The initial reports come from Twitter user @iAppleTimes, who’s been one of the most credible sources of information on all things Apple in the past. Recently, the user tweeted that the two iPhone models would be discontinued with iPhone 12’s launch and iPhone 11 deals would get a $150 price reduction.

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Price reduction on older generation iPhone models occurs annually with the drop of every new iPhone, typically followed by the discontinuing of whatever the oldest model is that year; last year it was the iPhone 7 Plus and everything before. So the discontinuing of two of Apple’s most recent models is quite surprising. 

It’s important to remember that even when this information comes from the most credible blog sources, we must take them with a grain of salt. While dropping these models may be surprising, it’s a newer trend that Apple’s seemed to follow. Every year they drop multiple versions of the same upgraded device, and ween out which models are most successful to continue selling. 

Last year when the iPhone 11 was launched, Apple also silently discontinued selling the iPhone XS and XS Max; this is also a part of the company’s efforts to only have a few smartphone options available at once. Since Apple also launched the iPhone SE earlier in 2020, it makes sense that they would want to discontinue newer models to keep up with the upgrades. 

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So the real question is what you should do if you’re currently in the market for a new iPhone, but don’t know if you should wait for the 12, the price-reduced 11 deals, or just go for it and pay for a new one now. If you were specifically looking to get the iPhone 11 Pro of iPhone XR, remember, this discontinuation is still simply a rumor based on Apple’s trends in the last few years, however, you may want to think about picking one up soon, just in case. 

If Apple does decide to discontinue both models, however, they won’t just pull them from the shelves without warning, and you’ll still be able to buy them online from third-party sellers. Establishments like Best Buy, or cell-service retail locations will likely have an overstock in the discontinued models that they’ll sell at a reduced price. 

Once Apple does finally launch the iPhone 12, it’s likely that all previous generation models will reduce in price as well. Third-party retailers typically also follow in these footsteps, so if you’re serious about getting a new phone as quickly as possible, try to hold out until the fall. 

Covid-19 has made it difficult for Apple to follow their usual launch schedule, hence the fall keynote presentation being delayed a month; it typically takes place in the beginning of September with the launch of the new iPhone models two weeks later. 

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iPhone 12 To Potentially Feature 5G Capability, And Other Rumors

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Despite the current coronavirus pandemic, major tech companies are continuing to roll out new projects on schedule in order to create a sense of encouragement and something to look forward to for tech lovers everywhere. Apple, being the most prominent, recently held a virtual Keynote conference where they announced a multitude of new products and software. Now, fans of Apple know that next up is their September Keynote presentation where they, typically, announce the year’s newest iPhone upgrade. 

While there’s no real word on how or when this Keynote presentation will take place, based on the release of iOS 14, many tech experts are gearing up for an iPhone update right on schedule this year. Here’s some of the most anticipated/rumored features that Apple fans are predicting the company will implement in the new upgrade. 

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Disclaimer: These are all rumors/predictions based on what experts typically look for in Apple’s annual conference, none of these features have been confirmed or denied from Apple. 

Typically, the newest iPhone is announced in the beginning of September and released by the end of the month, however, based on trading discrepancies with China, the coronavirus pandemic, and exporting issues in general, experts are predicting the new iPhone will more likely be released in October. 

The iPhone 12 will possibly be cheaper than the iPhone 11, as Apple has been releasing their newer models at cheaper prices and payment plans to appeal to more audiences who miss having the two-year upgrade fee of just $200 whenever they would want a new phone. The iPhone 11 itself was $50 cheaper than it’s previous counterpart, so many are predicting Apple will continue this trend. 

The design is always what fans look forward to seeing every year, however, many are predicting that the exterior of the iPhone 12 won’t be that different from the 11. Tech rumor blogs that are in coordination with Apple factory workers in China claim that so far the only major physical difference in the 12 is a slightly thinner body, however, Apple tends to love to shock their audiences with dramatic physical changes to their devices; for example the removal of the home button and headphone jack from all iPhone models. 

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It’s also been rumored that as a means to promote wireless charging products, the new iPhone may not even have a charging port to plug into. This would further push individuals to buy the company’s wireless headphones, Airpods, as well, as many can still use plug-in headphones through an adapter that goes in the charging port. 

With the iPhone 11 Pro, Apple announced a new dark green color that was widely popular among consumers. Now, it’s rumored that the Pro version of the 12 will also include a dark navy blue shade to choose from as well. 

Many are also predicting that size wise the iPhone 12 will come with options just like the 11 and 11 Pro Max. The screen quality will also have a higher resolution and refresh rate; meaning it’ll be able to switch from screen-to-screen much easier. 

Finally, like most new phone models it’s predicted that the newest iPhone will include 5G connectivity and Apple may even release their own 5G antennas. 5G is a relatively new concept in the tech world but it’s one that all major company’s (Samsung, Google, Sony etc.) are beginning to implement into their personal devices. 

Only time will tell how valid these rumors are, however, Apple fans are notorious for their predictions/source information when it comes to device features and release dates, so it’s more of just a waiting game now.