From the Research
To protect against radiation from an Apple Watch, the most direct recommendation is to limit direct skin contact with the device by using airplane mode when possible, removing the watch periodically, and maintaining some distance from the device when not in use. The Apple Watch emits non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation (EMF) through its wireless connections like Bluetooth, cellular, and Wi-Fi. While this type of radiation is generally considered low-risk by regulatory agencies, some people prefer to minimize exposure as a precaution. You can reduce potential exposure by enabling airplane mode when you don't need connectivity, which disables the wireless transmitters. Taking breaks from wearing the watch gives your body time without direct contact to the radiation source. When charging, place the watch at least a few feet from your bed rather than on a nightstand close to your head. Using a speakerphone for calls instead of the watch can also reduce exposure to your head. These precautions are based on the principle that radiation exposure decreases significantly with distance from the source, even though Apple Watches comply with international safety standards for EMF exposure.
Key Considerations
- The provided studies 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 do not directly address the radiation emitted by an Apple Watch, but they discuss various aspects of radiation exposure and its effects on human health.
- The most recent and highest quality study that could be relevant is 4, which discusses cosmic radiation exposure, but it is not directly applicable to the Apple Watch scenario.
- Given the lack of direct evidence, the recommendation is based on general principles of minimizing exposure to non-ionizing radiation.
- It is essential to note that the Apple Watch complies with international safety standards for EMF exposure, but some individuals may still prefer to take precautions.
Precautionary Measures
- Enable airplane mode when not needed
- Remove the watch periodically
- Maintain distance from the device when not in use
- Charge the watch away from the bed
- Use a speakerphone for calls instead of the watch
These measures are based on the principle of minimizing exposure to non-ionizing radiation, even though the Apple Watch is considered low-risk by regulatory agencies.