Apple just released a warning for iPhone 12. users. You may not be able to see it, but the iPhone 12 has a magnetic ring so that the device can connect to a charging base. The ring produces a magnetic field so strong that those who have a pacemaker or defibrillator should be cautious. According to a cardiologist at Bergan Mercy, Dr. Eric Van De Graaff,
“In most cases, it triggers the pacemaker to stop sensing the heart. It will trigger it to turn off the shock therapy, so that it wouldn’t shock the heart if needed. People have a pocket right there, like I have, [motioning to his shirt pocket] And if they choose to keep their phone in their pocket, that’s in close enough proximity that it can cause trouble.”
Dr. Van De Graaff urges those with the medical device and the iPhone 12 to be mindful of the proximity. Apple suggests people to keep at least a six-inch distance between the two devices, but Van De Graaff recommends even farther. He said,
“If it’s actually attached to the charger while it’s charging, it actually produces more of a field. So, you should keep it 12 inches away."
If pacemakers or defibrillators come into contact with the iPhone 12, the patient will be fine as soon as they create the distance between the two devices once again. Patients who have a pacemaker or defibrillator and have the iPone 12, are encouraged to speak with their cardiologist.
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