The French Frequency Agency (ANFR) does play a key role in monitoring the electromagnetic safety of consumer electronics, including smartphones, and incidents like this with radiation levels are not unprecedented.
When mobile phones exceed established SAR limits, regulators typically require manufacturers to take corrective measures. This may include changes in hardware design or software, such as an update that reduces the emitted power.
However, when it comes to recalling a product, it can be a complex and costly task, especially if the product is already widely distributed. In such cases, companies usually choose to release software updates to reduce radiation levels if possible, or take other steps to reduce potential exposure to users.
Apple’s response, stating that the iPhone 12 meets all SAR standards, is a typical response for a company facing such problems. Calls for device withdrawal or recall of already sold devices pose a serious threat to any company, and immediately challenging such test results is common practice.
Based on your post, ANFR is looking at how software updates may affect smartphone radiation levels, reflecting a growing recognition that device characteristics are not static and can change over time.
This case also highlights the importance of carefully monitoring technology’s compliance with international norms and regulations, as well as the importance of updating the regulatory framework to reflect current technological realities.