The Belgian government said on Thursday it would review potential health risks associated with Apple's iPhone 12 phones, raising the possibility that more European countries could ban sales of the model. Matthew Michel, Belgium’s State Secretary in charge of digital affairs, claimed: “I have a responsibility to ensure that all citizens are safe. I have quickly contacted the IBPT-BIPT (Institute of Postal Services and Telecommunications) to request an analysis of the potential dangers of this product.”
He also added,He also asked regulators to review all Apple smartphones and devices made by Apple, and will also review devices produced by other manufacturers.
On Tuesday, French regulatory authorities ordered Apple to suspend local sales of iPhone 12 due to excessive electromagnetic radiation, and even threatened to recall all devices that had been sold to consumers.
Apple has questioned the French findings, saying the iPhone 12 is a relatively older model launched in 2020 and has been certified by multiple international agencies as meeting radiation standards. It also said it has provided French regulators with multiple test results provided by the company and third-party laboratories to prove that the phone complies with relevant regulations.
Over the past two decades, researchers have conducted numerous studies to assess the health risks of cell phones. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there is no evidence that cell phone use causes adverse health effects.
Multi-country or follow-up
But France’s ban on iPhone 12 sales may trigger a chain reaction. The day before, Germany's radiation regulator also said they would discuss possible measures and are currently in close contact with French authorities.
The German Network Regulatory Authority (BNetzA) claims that the French work can serve as a guide for the whole of Europe and that if France makes enough progress, Germany will also review the issue.
The Dutch digital regulator also said it was investigating the matter and would demand an explanation from the U.S. technology company, while stressing that "there is no serious security risk."
Meanwhile, Italy's Industry Ministry said it was monitoring the situation but had not yet taken any action. The UK has not announced any plans.
The Spanish Consumers and Users Association (OCU) urges authorities to follow France's lead and stop sales of iPhone 12.
Analysts said,Restricting the sales of iPhone 12, in itself, should not have much impact on Apple. If it involves new models, it will be unusual. Apple just held an iPhone 15 series launch event this week.