Smartphone radiation levels compared by BfS data

A comparison of 15 popular smartphone models has been conducted based on data from the German Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS). The study measures the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR), which indicates the amount of energy absorbed by the body, expressed in watts per kilogram (W/kg).

Results show that radiation levels vary depending on whether the device is tested near the head or the body. For example, the Motorola Razr 60 recorded 0.84 W/kg for the head but 1.39 W/kg for the body. Similarly, the Google Pixel 9 measured 0.99 W/kg for the head and 1.40 W/kg for the body. Among the Apple models, the iPhone 17 and iPhone 16e showed high values, with the iPhone 17 recording 1.49 W/kg in both measurements.

Health institutions note that mobile phones emit non-ionizing radiation, which differs from ionizing radiation like X-rays. Currently, no adverse health effects have been established for exposure within existing safety limits, which specify that SAR values should not exceed 2 W/kg. Using headphones or speakers can significantly reduce exposure levels.