If you or someone you know has a Cardioverter Implantable Defibrillator (ICD), we recommend that you avoid using an iPhone 12. According to a recent study in Heart rate log, the iPhone 12 and its accessories can interfere with the behavior of an ICD and even stop it from working.
The study found that several components in the iPhone 12 can “potentially inhibit a patient’s rescue therapy, especially while carrying the phone in their top pockets.” This warning applies to all iPhone 12 devices, including iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12 Max and iPhone 12 Max Plus. MagSafe accessories for iPhone 12 are also a risk, especially the MagSafe charger and the MagSafe Duo charger, thanks to NFC magnets and radios.
According to the study, the magnetic charge coils and RF emitting components of these products are strong enough to interfere with the internal mechanisms of the ICD, which respond to magnetic fields. The researchers noted the immediate suspension of ICD’s heart-adjusting operations if an iPhone “was close to the ICD over the left chest area.” The interference “persisted during the test”.
This presents serious health risks, including the possibility of heart failure or cardiac arrest. To inform users of potential risks, Apple has updated its iPhone 12 health and safety documentation with new guidelines based on the report’s suggestions. Apple now recommends that users keep their iPhone 12 and MagSafe accessories more than six inches away from their chest at all times and more than 12 inches if your phone is charging wirelessly. Definitely don’t put your iPhone in your shirt or jacket chest pocket.
Although these warnings refer in particular to the iPhone 12 line and its magnetic accessories, these are not the only products that can affect medical devices. A similar case study shows smart watches and fitness trackers can interfere with ICDs if they are 2.4 centimeters from the ICD location in the patient’s chest. IPhone 12 interference is more severe – especially while charging wirelessly – but you should be careful to use anything smart devices next to someone with ICD.
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