Apple Says That Magnets In iPhone 12 Might Interfere With Implantable Medical Devices

After ridding its laptops of the fabled MagSafe connectors, Apple reintroduced the tech this year as a means to anchor its wireless chargers to the iPhone 12. Unlike previous generations, the new phones have fairly powerful magnets mounted on their inner part of the casings. They allow the chargers to snap on effortlessly, which is similar in principle to that of the Macbooks of yore.

It’s a known fact that magnets and electromagnetic fields can interfere with the operation of electronic devices. On its support page, Apple published a post to remind users of this and to remind them to consult a physician and manufacturer for more information on whether they need to keep their medical device a safe distance away from the iPhone or any MagSafe accessories.

In its statement, Apple says:

Medical devices such as implanted pacemakers and defibrillators might contain sensors that respond to magnets and radios when in close contact. Consult your physician and your device manufacturer for specific guidelines

To avoid any potential interactions with these devices, keep your iPhone and MagSafe accessories a safe distance away from your device (more than 6 inches / 15 cm apart or more than 12 inches / 30 cm apart if wirelessly charging).

However, Apple believes that though iPhone 12 models contain more magnets than previous generation iPhones, “They’re not expected to pose a greater risk of magnetic interference to medical devices than prior iPhone models.”

Apple’s proactive approach is aimed at informing users of the potential risks associated with ignoring guidelines and safety standards put in place by device manufacturers or medical professionals. If you happen to have an implantable medical device like a pacemaker, it’s imperative that you adhere to the guidelines stated by the respective manufacturer.