Magnetic field interactions of smartwatches and portable electronic devices with CIEDs - Did we open a Pandora's box?

Abstract

Overview

Introduction: The investigation focuses on the magnetic interactions between state-of-the-art mobile phones and cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs). It aims to quantify the magnetic fields of the latest generation smartwatches along with other Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs) and assess their risk of interacting with CIEDs.

Methods:

• Characterization of magnetic fields using a high-resolution magnetic field camera for five smartwatches: Apple Watch 6/7, Fitbit Sense, Samsung Galaxy 3, Withings Scanwatch.
• Ex vivo measurement of minimal safety distance (MSD) for 11 PEDs against six representative CIEDs, assessing the distance at which no mode switch occurs.

Findings:

Results revealed maximal 1 mT distances ranging from 10 mm (Withings) to 19 mm (Fitbit and AppleWatch), with 1 mT volumes between 6 cm3 (Withings) and 19 cm3 (Fitbit). Notably, safe interactions were primarily from the back side of smartwatches. Linear regression analysis indicated a direct relationship between MSD and 1 mT distance, confirming consistency in measurement and implications.

Conclusion:

Smartwatches, particularly at distances under 10mm, generally pose lower risk of interaction with CIEDs compared to other PEDs like electronic pens or in-ear headphones. The use of a standardized magnetic field camera is effective for risk assessment of novel PEDs in CIED interactions.