Interference by Modern Smartphones and Accessories with Cardiac Pacemakers and Defibrillators

Abstract

Overview

The evolution of smartphone technology, including the integration of additional magnets for various functionalities such as improved wireless charging and accessory attachment, has revisited concerns about interference with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs).

Findings

• The latest smartphones, such as the iPhone 12 series, along with modern smartwatches and wireless headphones, carry an inherent risk of interfering with CIED functions by forcing them into a potentially hazardous magnet mode.
• This concern extends not only to device operation but also to ex vivo laboratory settings, confirming the real-world applicability of these findings.

Conclusion

Despite modern upgrades in phone technology increasing magnetic interference risks, adherence to FDA guidelines—maintaining a safe distance of at least six inches from CIEDs—can mitigate these risks significantly. This stresses an evolving need to continuously monitor and regulate technology interactions with critical health devices.