Apple: Keep iPhone 12 at least six inches from pacemakers

Tech giant Apple warned over the weekend that its iPhone 12 could potentially interfere with medical devices such as implanted pacemakers and defibrillators.

CNN reported Monday that Apple shared the information through its support page on Saturday.

“IPhone contains magnets as well as components and radios that emit electromagnetic fields. All MagSafe accessories (each sold separately) also contain magnets — and MagSafe Charger and MagSafe Duo Charger contain radios. These magnets and electromagnetic fields might interfere with medical devices,” Apple said.

According to Apple, the iPhone 12 model contains more magnets than previous versions, though it stated they are “not expected to pose a greater risk of magnetic interference to medical devices than prior iPhone models.”

Apple recommended keeping the iPhone 12 six inches away from any medical devices as they might have sensors that respond to the magnets and radios. The device should be kept 12 inches away if it is wirelessly charging.

The tech company advises users to consult their doctors about the specifics regarding their medical devices and recommends ceasing iPhone use if interference is suspected.

CNN notes that the Heart Rhythm Journal released a report earlier in January that found the magnets in the iPhone could in fact interfere with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). The Journal tested the iPhone by bringing it close to a patient with “a Medtronic Inc. ICD,” and found the ICD therapy was suspended, which persisted throughout the test.

“We hereby bring an important public health issue concerning the newer generation iPhone 12 which can potentially inhibit lifesaving therapy in a patient particularly while carrying the phone in upper pockets,” the Heart Rhythm Journal reported.