Magnetic Interference on Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices From Apple iPhone MagSafe Technology

Abstract

Overview

This study evaluates the effects of Apple's MagSafe technology, a magnetic wireless charging system, on cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED). With magnet field strengths potentially exceeding 50 gauss, concerns about the safety and compatibility of new smartphone technologies with medical devices are vital.

Methods and Results

• The in vivo aspect of the study involved consecutive patients with pre-implanted CIEDs who were exposed to the iPhone 12 Pro Max placed over device pockets to monitor for interference.
• The ex vivo investigation tested CIEDs from multiple major manufacturers specifically dealing with interference from the same iPhone model through unopened packages.

Results showed clinically significant magnet interference in 100% of in vivo participants and 72.7% of ex vivo devices.

Conclusions

The presence of magnet interference from Apple's iPhone 12 Pro Max can potentially inhibit critical lifesaving therapies due to CIED malfunction. This raises significant concerns about the compatibility and safety of contemporary magnetic wireless charging technologies with specific medical devices.