Apple Says To Keep These Gadgets Away From Medical Devices

Apple has developed its guide on the potential magnetic interference of its gadgets with medical devices. In recent days, it is released a long and detailed list of the products it says should be kept at a “safe distance” from medical devices.

In a support article, Apple acknowledged that under certain conditions, magnets and electromagnetic fields can interfere with medical devices. For example, he said implanted pacemakers and defibrillators could contain sensors that respond to magnets and radios when they are in close contact. The effect of the company’s products on medical devices, that he addressed, has been a highlight in recent months and provoked the search on the subject.

“To avoid any potential interaction with these types of medical devices, keep your Apple product at a safe distance from your medical device (more than 6 inches / 15 cm away or more than 12 inches / 30 cm away). wireless charging), ”Apple said. “Consult with your doctor and the manufacturer of your device for specific guidelines.”

This is not a small matter. In January, researchers at the Henry Ford Heart and Vascular Institute explained that they placed an iPhone 12 over the heart of a patient with Medtronic implanted cardioverter-defibrillator. They reported that device operations were suspended each time. While the study was done on a single patient, it raised important questions. Recently, a study by u American Heart Association examined the impact of a larger-scale iPhone 12 Pro Max with various devices, finding that many of those tested had “magnetic susceptibility”.

Apple added in the support article that if an individual suspected that their Apple product was interfering with their medical advice, they should stop using the device immediately and consult your doctor is a manufacturer of medical devices.

The detailed list of Apple products, which Apple notes contain magnets, which the company says should be kept at a safe distance from your medical device is listed below.

AirPods are charging cases

• AirPods and Charging Cases
• AirPods and Wireless Charging Cases
• AirPods Pro is Wireless Charging Case
• AirPods Max and Smart Case

Apple Watch is accessories

• Apple Watch
• Apple Watch belt with magnets
• Apple Watch magnetic charging accessories

HomePod

iPad and accessories

• iPad
• iPad mini
• iPad Air
• iPad Pro
• Smart Covers iPad and Smart Folios
• IPad Smart Keyboard and Folio Smart Keyboard
• Magic Keyboard for iPad

IPhone accessories is MagSafe

• IPhone 12 models
• MagSafe accessories

Mac and accessories

• Mac mini
• Mac Pro
• MacBook Air
• MacBook Pro
• iMac
• Apple Pro Display XDR

Batti

• Beats Flex
• Beat X
• PowerBeats Pro
• UrBeats3

They’re not the only Apple products that contain magnets. The company said some other Apple products contain magnets, but that those are unlikely to interfere with medical devices. Users can find more information about these other products at Apple user guides for their products.

Interestingly, as noted by MacRumors, Apple has not made any specific reference to its iPhone 12 line January support article, Apple said that even though the iPhone 12 line had more magnets than the iPhone lines, it was “not expected” to pose a greater risk of magnetic interference for medical devices than previous models. This language was absent in this updated support article.

It must be said that this is not a problem specific to Apple. Many devices, from radios and headphones to Fitbits and vape pens have been known to cause magnetic interference. U Food and Drug Administration he also recognizes this, advising people to keep certain consumer electronic devices, such as certain cell phones and smart watches, at least six inches away from implanted medical devices.

It is important for Apple to keep its consumers with medical devices informed about the possible effects of their products. However, taking into account humanity’s drive for continued technological innovation, magnets will not disappear. Medical device manufacturers need to think seriously about addressing these issues in their products as well, or perhaps even in partnership with players like Apple to work only on the solution, for the safety of those who are vulnerable.