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Apple Watch Radiation Level

Apple Watch Radiation

Fitness trackers are all the rage, and the Apple watch is no stranger to popularity. While it does a lot to enhance your experience, does it emit EMF radiation? And if so, what amount is safe, and is the watch itself safe? Learn more about the Apple watch radiation level.

Does the Apple Watch Have Radiation Emissions?

Like any electronic device, it certainly has electromagnetic field radiation emissions. But according to Apple:

Apple Watch has been tested and meets applicable limits for radio frequency (RF) exposure.

Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) refers to the rate at which the body absorbs RF energy. SAR limits depend on whether Apple Watch is used against the head or on the wrist. In some countries, the SAR limit is 1.6 watts per kilogram averaged over 10 gram of tissue for use against the head and 4.0 watts per kilogram averaged over 10 grams of tissue for use on the wrist. In other countries, the SAR limit is 2.0 watts per kilogram averaged over 10 grams of tissue for use against the head and 4.0 watts per kilogram averaged over 10 grams of tissue for use on the wrist.

During testing, Apple Watch radios are set to their highest transmission levels and placed in positions that simulate use against the head, with 10mm separation, and on the wrist, with no separation. When placing Apple Watch near your face, keep at least 10mm of separation to ensure exposure levels remain at or below the as-tested levels.

What Do Experts Say?

Well, like other devices, Apple watches have a few ways they emit EMF. These include radio frequency and magnetic field frequency. Like many of your electronic equipment, this is a normal way EMF is transmitted. Another thing though is that Bluetooth your watch is connected to. This adds more to it.

Proximity is the last issue. You wear the Apple watch on your wrist and some people wear theirs constantly. Limiting your exposure is key.

What’s the Verdict?

Yes, the Apple watch does emit EMF. But according to Apple, these are acceptable levels. It’s up to you to decide if you want to keep your watch, especially if you are prone to electromagnetic sensitivity.

I come from an R&D engineering background. Safely dealing with EMF was part of my work. As technology evolved and EMF moved from my work into the home, it became more important to deal with it in a sensible way. There is lots of controversy on EMF's impact to health. Fortunately, there are some simple principles you can apply to minimize impact and exposure until the science of EMF's impact on humans is resolved.

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