Magnetic field interactions between current consumer electronics and cardiac implantable electronic devices

Authors: Xu K, Sengupta J, Casey S, Peltier J, Stahl W, Peterson N, Settimi D, Taylor A, Kippola J, Steele E, Hauser R

Year: 2022 May 10

Category: Cardiovascular Electrophysiology

Journal: J Interv Card Electrophysiol

Institution: Boston Scientific, Medtronic

DOI: 10.1007/s10840-022-01241-w

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35538270/

Abstract

Overview

Recent studies have highlighted potential risks posed by static magnetic fields emitted from consumer electronics like the iPhone 12 and Apple Watch Series 6 on cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs). This study evaluates magnetic field interactions to ensure user safety and support FDA guidelines.

Background

  • Consumer electronics incorporating magnets for wireless charging may disrupt magnet mode features in CIEDs.
  • Common devices such as iPhone 12, Apple Watch, and AirPods have been tested.

Findings

The iPhone 12 was found to emit a magnetic field nearly three times stronger at the surface compared to the iPhone XR. However, the magnetic strength decreases with distance. Significant findings include:

  • At 1.5 cm distance, no interaction with CIEDs was recorded indicating safe user distance.
  • All tested CIEDs were triggered into magnet mode at the surface by PE.

Conclusion

The enhanced magnetic field of the iPhone 12 suggests a need to maintain distance but is unlikely to pose a risk during normal daily activities beyond 1.5 cm. These results support ongoing FDA recommendations for safety around consumer electronics.

electromagnetic fields consumer electronics cardiac devices health risks magnetic interference CIEDs FDA recommendations
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