Chicago Tribune Claims iPhone Radiofrequency Radiation Levels Measured Higher Than Legal Safety Limit in Tests

[nt5672]

It's sad that people don't understand the difference between ionizing radiation and electromagnetic radiation. They lump "radiation" as one term. There is no harm from electromagnetic radiation at these levels (or 100x these levels) at this frequency.

Not exactly correct. There are two types of radiation ionizing and non-ionizing. Both types can be electromagnetic. Standard radio waves, along with infrared and ultraviolet etc. are non-ionizing.

According to WHO, "Non-ionizing radiation is the term given to radiation in the part of the electromagnetic spectrum where there is insufficient energy to cause ionization. It includes electric and magnetic fields, radio waves, microwaves, infrared, ultraviolet, and visible radiation."

But that is not the point. Certainly ionizing radiation is dangerous as it includes x-rays, gamma rays, etc. However I don't think anyone would consider putting their head in an open microwave with the door safeties turned off. Microwaves are non-ionizing and electromagnetic and at a high level are dangerous to human tissue.

The level where non-ionizing radiation is dangerous is the key issue. Nobody really knows this because we have NO long term studies. The studies we do have are paid for by organizations that desire no obstruction of radio frequency use.

Now I am not saying there is a danger, only that we don't know and probably won't know for a 100 years. The other thing we don't know is if the human body will adapt to significant increases in electromagnetic radiation that the modern world brings. My guess is that it will, but I certainly don't know and neither does anyone else.

 

[x-evil-x]

and what happens when 5g phones are out? Thats my main concern about 5g

 

[Felix01]

I either use AirPods or ...

So you're not concerned about the AirPod reports claiming that their Bluetooth transmitters can send dangerous electrical signals through the brain?

I don't know if those reports have any more credibility than this Chicago Tribune story, I'm just pointing out that if you are concerned about iPhone RF emissions, you probably should be concerned about AirPods. Those things are positioned inside your ear canal.

 

[BGPL]

The fact that every phone they tested didn't meet the requirements tells me the testing wasn't done properly, as Apple said. They say water was used to simulate flesh, which is never the case. Almost always, gelatin is used. Who knows what else they screwed up.
[doublepost=1566483149][/doublepost]

and what happens when 5g phones are out? Thats my main concern about 5g

5G has far less "penetration" than other wavelengths. 5G will require providers to have "towers" (which are really the size of shoe boxes mounted on telephone/light poles) every 4-5 households. It just doesn't penetrate walls and other obstacles well.

 

[Hodar1]

No one here will care but I have actually worked in the SAR field and have observed these tests being done. This story is almost certainly ginned-up for clicks. There is a specific methodology that must be applied consistently for the results to make sense. By their own admission, they deviated from the international standard. Phones are tested before they are released and tested again afterwards throughout their availability. Click bait.

I beg to disagree, having worked in the SAR field, and having personally observed and understood the tests and test methodology - you are a comparative SME (Subject Matter Expert) in this, which it appears that the author is not. IMHO, your opinion on this matter has more value than the article - and I'd say that exact same thing whether the article was bashing an Android device, or an Apple device. There are international standards, they exist for a reason.

 

[I7guy]

So you're not concerned about the AirPod reports claiming that their Bluetooth transmitters can send dangerous electrical signals through the brain?

I don't know if those reports have any more credibility than this Chicago Tribune story, I'm just pointing out that if you are concerned about iPhone RF emissions, you probably should be concerned about AirPods. Those things are positioned inside your ear canal.

No, I'm not worried, just like I'm not really worried about SAR.

To me holding the phone to me ear is so uncomfortable and airpods are incredibly convenient. If any of this really pans out I'll start using my earpods again.

edit:

It is actually interesting that one website espousing BT radiation hazard (https://www.rfsafe.com/bluetooth-radiation-dangerous-cell-phone-radiation/) is selling headsets.

 

[NufSaid]

Has there been any definite proof that RF from phones is harmful?

The whole POINT of a radio transmitter is to emit radiation, and the more radiation emitted, the better the signal:noise ratio will be. Better performing transmitters will output more power.

It's all moot if the radiation is harmless, though; scientifically speaking non-ionizing radiation can't hurt you at such low power levels.

I have not seen anything, but I do try to limit my exposure for safety. Plus keeping it in front of me at work is far more practical than in my pocket.
[doublepost=1566484879][/doublepost]

And the winner for most radiation 2mm from the phone is... the Samsung Galaxy S8, with over 5X the FCC limit!

View attachment 854066

Yes....but Apple in the headline sells papers. Samsung phones literal ignited and burned things up and the news coverage was so pale in comparison to even something like bendgate.

 

[Jim Higgins]

and what happens when 5g phones are out? Thats my main concern about 5g

Then you will make "A Stop At Willoughby".

 

[Freakonomics101]

I think you missed the sarcasm

Damn. I was excited to hear what you’re drinking so I could try it out.

 

[digthewell]

Oh boy! And here I was planning to buy an iP8, might as well buy a microwave telephone! /s

 

[vixster1901]

I curious about the watch. The Apple Watch has really freed me from carrying the phone around all the time.

 

[JagdTiger]

The Chicago Tribune recently launched an investigation into the radiofrequency radiation levels output by popular smartphones, and found that some of Apple's iPhones are allegedly emitting radiofrequency radiation that exceeds safety limits.

According to the newspaper, it contracted an accredited lab to test several smartphones according to federal guidelines. iPhones were secured below clear liquid formulated to simulate human tissue while probes measured the radiofrequency radiation the liquid absorbed.

Several iPhones measured over the legal safety limits in the tests, but the worst performer was the iPhone 7. Its radiofrequency radiation exposure was over the legal limit and more than double what Apple reported to federal regulators.

The iPhone X was slightly over limits in some tests, as was the iPhone 8, while the 8 Plus stayed within the legal range. iPhones were tested twice after Apple provided feedback on the testing method. The modified test "added steps intended to activate sensors designed to reduce the phones' power."

In these modified tests, where a reporter held the iPhone to activate the sensors in question, the iPhone 8 was under the 5mm limit, but the iPhone 7 models were not. Apple disputed the results found by The Chicago Tribune and said that the lab did not test the iPhones in the same way that Apple does, though Apple would not specify what was done wrong in the testing. Apple also said the modified testing had been done wrong.

Apple officials declined to be interviewed, and asked The Chicago Tribune to submit questions in writing, which were not responded to ahead of publication. Apple later shared a statement that again said the testing was inaccurate "due to the test setup not being in accordance with procedures necessary to properly assess the iPhone models."The FCC, meanwhile, said that it is going to be doing its own testing over the next couple of months.Smartphones from Samsung, Motorola, and Vivo were also tested, and most of these also demonstrated radiofrequency radiation levels that exceed FCC guidelines in The Chicago Tribune's testing.

Both the FCC and smartphone manufacturers test all new smartphones before they're able to be released to the market, making sure devices comply with exposure standards for radiofrequency radiation. The Chicago Tribune claims that this is problematic because just one phone needs to pass and manufacturers are allowed to select the testing lab.

While tests can be conducted from up to 25mm away, The Chicago Tribune used the distance that manufacturers choose for their own tests. In Apple's case, that's 5mm. A second test was also done at 2mm to simulate the way most people carry their phones.

It's worth noting that testing was done in a way to simulate the worst possible exposure conditions.The Chicago Tribune says that its testing was not meant to rank phone models for safety, and in the limited testing, only 11 models were examined. In many cases, just one device was tested, and even then, the paper says it's not known whether the cellphones found to be above the limits even have the potential to cause harm.

Apple tells customers worried about radiofrequency radiation exposure to use a hands-free option, and on some iPhone models, such as the iPhone 4 and 4s, Apple has recommended carrying the devices at least 10mm away from the body to ensure exposure levels remain at or below tested levels. Apple made a similar suggestion with the iPhone 7 when submitting documentation to the FCC, but allegedly did not go on to inform customers about the 5mm distance recommendation.

The FCC plans to do additional testing on smartphones to follow up, which should give more insight into the safety of smartphones. For more on the testing procedures and the results, The Chicago Tribune's full report goes into much more detail and is well worth reading for those who are concerned.

Article Link: Chicago Tribune Claims iPhone Radiofrequency Radiation Levels Measured Higher Than Legal Safety Limit in Tests

It could be true because are cathode ray tubes (television) produced the highest amount of radiation there was, our monitors were not isolated properly, if certain cancer rates go up that will be a indicator.
[doublepost=1566489932][/doublepost]

even if this is true it DOESN'T matter. Iphone radiation is the cleanest and purest radiation there is and many would argue that it is actually GOOD for your health

Really?
[doublepost=1566490090][/doublepost]

Five years later, 500M men & women discover they can't RE-produce !

Apple this is UN-acceptable !

The new world order would not care, it’s just another depopulation program.
[doublepost=1566490222][/doublepost]

and what happens when 5g phones are out? Thats my main concern about 5g

Headaches but people will say it’s ok to use...it will be years until it’s known.

 

[zarmanto]

... Smartphones from Samsung, Motorola, and Vivo were also tested, and most of these also demonstrated radiofrequency radiation levels that exceed FCC guidelines in The Chicago Tribune's testing. ...

So let me get this straight: after multiple tests by multiple vendors and the FCC determined that various handsets are in compliance with radiation level guidelines, The Chicago Tribune runs some tests of their own and concludes that they're all wrong? And nobody at the Tribune stopped for a second to wonder if there might possibly be a more plausible explanation involving a single point of failure, before publishing their conclusion?

 

[JagdTiger]

Not exactly correct. There are two types of radiation ionizing and non-ionizing. Both types can be electromagnetic. Standard radio waves, along with infrared and ultraviolet etc. are non-ionizing.

According to WHO, "Non-ionizing radiation is the term given to radiation in the part of the electromagnetic spectrum where there is insufficient energy to cause ionization. It includes electric and magnetic fields, radio waves, microwaves, infrared, ultraviolet, and visible radiation."

But that is not the point. Certainly ionizing radiation is dangerous as it includes x-rays, gamma rays, etc. However I don't think anyone would consider putting their head in an open microwave with the door safeties turned off. Microwaves are non-ionizing and electromagnetic and at a high level are dangerous to human tissue.

The level where non-ionizing radiation is dangerous is the key issue. Nobody really knows this because we have NO long term studies. The studies we do have are paid for by organizations that desire no obstruction of radio frequency use.

Now I am not saying there is a danger, only that we don't know and probably won't know for a 100 years. The other thing we don't know is if the human body will adapt to significant increases in electromagnetic radiation that the modern world brings. My guess is that it will, but I certainly don't know and neither does anyone else.

Ionizers for aquariums were dangerous in the beginning especially when they broke and could cause nerve damage and this without a cell phone which is why Honeywell would not not use them in air purifiers until later...aromatherapy can do ionizing naturally without harm but electronic devices probably can or will depending on use.

 

[farmboy]

And you guys told me that my tinfoil hat is useless...

No, it's not useless...it's just that it clashes with the rest of your outfit.
[doublepost=1566491342][/doublepost]Good point. In a nutshell, that's exactly the question.

Maybe the data is real, or maybe the study protocol has not been validated (TLDR). When you get a failure you have to look at the process, the equipment and the analysts, standard OOS stuff.

 

[CurtisCalderon]

Spelling and grammar police are so sad, have a cookie.

Lol, it’s not about the grammar police. Did you read his first comment?

 

[trillionaire]

but even if held at arm's length you've still got to hold the damn thing. So the distance from your hand, which is your body by the way, is zero mm. Poor hand. I guess we're gunna find out how hazardous this all is 40 years from now when long term exposure shows us what happens.

NO MORE CARRYING AN IPHONE IN YOUR POCKET WHILE ITS ON GUYS. Turn the damn thing off

Yes, we'll all soon be walking around with a glove on one hand to hide the scars. It'll also most likely make us all go bald. The future is going to be full of Lex Luthors.

 

[kingspointer]

I'm sure the industry tests are conducted the same way tobacco conducts its tests: in a way the product is never used by the consumer. this is really scary.

The Chicago Tribune recently launched an investigation into the radiofrequency radiation levels output by popular smartphones, and found that some of Apple's iPhones are allegedly emitting radiofrequency radiation that exceeds safety limits.

According to the newspaper, it contracted an accredited lab to test several smartphones according to federal guidelines. iPhones were secured below clear liquid formulated to simulate human tissue while probes measured the radiofrequency radiation the liquid absorbed.

Several iPhones measured over the legal safety limits in the tests, but the worst performer was the iPhone 7. Its radiofrequency radiation exposure was over the legal limit and more than double what Apple reported to federal regulators.

The iPhone X was slightly over limits in some tests, as was the iPhone 8, while the 8 Plus stayed within the legal range. iPhones were tested twice after Apple provided feedback on the testing method. The modified test "added steps intended to activate sensors designed to reduce the phones' power."

In these modified tests, where a reporter held the iPhone to activate the sensors in question, the iPhone 8 was under the 5mm limit, but the iPhone 7 models were not. Apple disputed the results found by The Chicago Tribune and said that the lab did not test the iPhones in the same way that Apple does, though Apple would not specify what was done wrong in the testing. Apple also said the modified testing had been done wrong.

Apple officials declined to be interviewed, and asked The Chicago Tribune to submit questions in writing, which were not responded to ahead of publication. Apple later shared a statement that again said the testing was inaccurate "due to the test setup not being in accordance with procedures necessary to properly assess the iPhone models."The FCC, meanwhile, said that it is going to be doing its own testing over the next couple of months.Smartphones from Samsung, Motorola, and Vivo were also tested, and most of these also demonstrated radiofrequency radiation levels that exceed FCC guidelines in The Chicago Tribune's testing.

Both the FCC and smartphone manufacturers test all new smartphones before they're able to be released to the market, making sure devices comply with exposure standards for radiofrequency radiation. The Chicago Tribune claims that this is problematic because just one phone needs to pass and manufacturers are allowed to select the testing lab.

While tests can be conducted from up to 25mm away, The Chicago Tribune used the distance that manufacturers choose for their own tests. In Apple's case, that's 5mm. A second test was also done at 2mm to simulate the way most people carry their phones.

It's worth noting that testing was done in a way to simulate the worst possible exposure conditions.The Chicago Tribune says that its testing was not meant to rank phone models for safety, and in the limited testing, only 11 models were examined. In many cases, just one device was tested, and even then, the paper says it's not known whether the cellphones found to be above the limits even have the potential to cause harm.

Apple tells customers worried about radiofrequency radiation exposure to use a hands-free option, and on some iPhone models, such as the iPhone 4 and 4s, Apple has recommended carrying the devices at least 10mm away from the body to ensure exposure levels remain at or below tested levels. Apple made a similar suggestion with the iPhone 7 when submitting documentation to the FCC, but allegedly did not go on to inform customers about the 5mm distance recommendation.

The FCC plans to do additional testing on smartphones to follow up, which should give more insight into the safety of smartphones. For more on the testing procedures and the results, The Chicago Tribune's full report goes into much more detail and is well worth reading for those who are concerned.

Article Link: Chicago Tribune Claims iPhone Radiofrequency Radiation Levels Measured Higher Than Legal Safety Limit in Tests

 

[barbu]

I beg to disagree, having worked in the SAR field, and having personally observed and understood the tests and test methodology - you are a comparative SME (Subject Matter Expert) in this, which it appears that the author is not. IMHO, your opinion on this matter has more value than the article - and I'd say that exact same thing whether the article was bashing an Android device, or an Apple device. There are international standards, they exist for a rea

I'm sure the industry tests are conducted the same way tobacco conducts its tests: in a way the product is never used by the consumer. this is really scary.

you are correct, but not for the reason you think. The tests are indeed unrealistic- in that they are performed under the worst-possible conditions that a normal user would almost never experience.

 

[Bawstun]

Has there been any definite proof that RF from phones is harmful?

The whole POINT of a radio transmitter is to emit radiation, and the more radiation emitted, the better the signal:noise ratio will be. Better performing transmitters will output more power.

It's all moot if the radiation is harmless, though; scientifically speaking non-ionizing radiation can't hurt you at such low power levels.

YIKES!!! Yes there has been proof, lol and no radiation is NOT good and definitely is harmful. There’s a whole thing about not putting them into pockets because they are seeing more and more men with reduced sperm counts.

 

[kingspointer]

you are correct, but not for the reason you think. The tests are indeed unrealistic- in that they are performed under the worst-possible conditions that a normal user would almost never experience.

if the phone is against your ear is exposing your skull and brain to EMF. I'm sure that the industry tests it behind a lead screen. I was correct, "Companies testing a new phone for compliance with the safety limit also are permitted to position the phone up to 25 millimeters away from the body — nearly an inch — depending on how the device is used." So when you bring your phone up to your head, it's not an inch away. it's touching.
[doublepost=1566507525][/doublepost]The industry obviously relies on these 'proximity sensors' the same why that the VW TDI relied on seniors to determine if the vehicle was being tested, or how the tobacco industry puts little holes into cigarettes that are open when the cigarette is tested in a machine for testing, yet are blocked when a person holds it to smoke. I'm sure that the finding will be that these devices when carried in a pocket or used the way they are regularly used exposes the public to multiples of safe levels of exposure.

 

[barbu]

if the phone is against your ear is exposing your skull and brain to EMF. I'm sure that the industry tests it behind a lead screen. I was correct, "Companies testing a new phone for compliance with the safety limit also are permitted to position the phone up to 25 millimeters away from the body — nearly an inch — depending on how the device is used." So when you bring your phone up to your head, it's not an inch away. it's touching.

So you admit you know nothing about how the tests are performed but feel confortable asserting that everything and everyone is in the tank for industry.
Companies may test their own phones, but to go to market, it needs to be done at an independent certified test lab that meets quality system requirements ($$$). The third party lab provided the test results to the safety org for review. Industry has no direct control over the testing procedures and certainly no hand in the test execution. And any lab trying to fudge results would be risking their reputation and incredibly expensive lab since, as I stated above, outfits like my old office are checking that work and performing tests of their own.
Use your bloody head.

 

[barbu]

I'm sure that the finding will be that these devices when carried in a pocket or used the way they are regularly used exposes the public to multiples of safe levels of exposure.

I’ll take that action. How much would you like to wager?

 

[kingspointer]

I’ll take that action. How much would you like to wager?

VW took that bet and it cost them over 50 billion dollars.
[doublepost=1566511738][/doublepost]

So you admit you know nothing about how the tests are performed but feel confortable asserting that everything and everyone is in the tank for industry.
Companies may test their own phones, but to go to market, it needs to be done at an independent certified test lab that meets quality system requirements ($$$). The third party lab provided the test results to the safety org for review. Industry has no direct control over the testing procedures and certainly no hand in the test execution. And any lab trying to fudge results would be risking their reputation and incredibly expensive lab since, as I stated above, outfits like my old office are checking that work and performing tests of their own.
Use your bloody head.

This is exactly what Bosch VW and other auto manufacturers did and got away with it until a 3rd party (in this case the Trib) investigated. But even if held at arm's length you've still got to hold the damn thing. So the distance from your hand, which is your body by the way, is zero mm. Poor hand. I guess we're we'll find out how hazardous this all is 40 years from now when long term exposure shows us what happens.

NO MORE CARRYING AN IPHONE IN YOUR POCKET WHILE ITS ON GUYS. Turn the damn thing off

 

[barbu]

VW took that bet and it cost them over 50 billion dollars.
[doublepost=1566511738][/doublepost]
This is exactly what Bosch VW and other auto manufacturers did and got away with it until a 3rd party (in this case the Trib) investigated. But even if held at arm's length you've still got to hold the damn thing. So the distance from your hand, which is your body by the way, is zero mm. Poor hand. I guess we're we'll find out how hazardous this all is 40 years from now when long term exposure shows us what happens.

NO MORE CARRYING AN IPHONE IN YOUR POCKET WHILE ITS ON GUYS. Turn the damn thing off

You haven’t even read this thread. You should, there have been several knowledgeable posts. But instead you conflate unrelated things and make ignorant accusations. I’m done with you.