Does the Apple Watch Emit Harmful Radiation?
The Apple Watch emits some radiation, but it’s well within safe limits and won’t harm your body or DNA. It may cause slight localized warming, but all models comply with global exposure standards. Here’s what UK users need to know about Apple Watch radiation.
How Is Apple Watch Radiation Measured?
Radiation from the Apple Watch is measured using the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR), which quantifies how much radiofrequency energy your body absorbs when wearing the watch on your wrist or holding it near your head.
Regulations vary by country, but the SAR limit for wrist use is typically 4.0 W/kg averaged over 10 grams of tissue. For head use, limits are 1.6 W/kg over 1 gram or 2.0 W/kg over 10 grams of tissue.
How Much Radiation Does an Apple Watch Emit?
Here’s a breakdown of SAR values for various Apple Watch models, showing they stay well below safe limits:
Apple Watch Model | SAR Limit 1.6 W/kg (1g, Head) | SAR Limit 2.0 W/kg (10g, Head) | SAR Limit 4.0 W/kg (10g, Wrist) |
---|---|---|---|
Apple Watch Series 6 44mm | 0.40 | 0.23 | 0.04 |
Apple Watch Series 6 40mm | 0.24 | 0.14 | 0.04 |
Apple Watch 38mm | 0.153 | 0.073 | 0.024 |
Apple Watch 42mm | 0.109 | 0.037 | 0.061 |
Apple Watch Ultra | 0.93 | 0.35 | 0.6 |
While data for other models may not be listed, all Apple Watches are designed to stay well within SAR limits, ensuring safety for UK users.

Does the Apple Watch Emit Less Radiation Than an iPhone or iPad?
In France, the iPhone 12 faced a temporary sales ban due to exceeding SAR limits, but no such concerns were raised in the UK, as the radiation posed no immediate health risks. Generally, the Apple Watch emits less radiation than an iPhone or iPad, though all Apple devices typically stay within safe SAR thresholds.
Is Apple Watch Radiation Dangerous?
Research from Cancer Research UK shows that prolonged smartphone use may warm the body by a fraction of a degree Celsius, but there’s no evidence that Apple Watches, iPhones, or iPads increase cancer risk. More long-term studies are needed, but current data suggests no significant health concerns. Explore our Apple Watch accessories to enhance your device safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Apple Watch Emit Radiation?
Yes, but it’s well within SAR limits. For example, the Apple Watch Ultra’s SAR values are:
- 1.6 W/kg (1g, Head): 0.93
- 2.0 W/kg (10g, Head): 0.35
- 4.0 W/kg (10g, Wrist): 0.6
How Much Radiation Does a Smartwatch Emit?
Smartwatches like the Apple Watch emit low levels of radiation, well within safe limits. They may cause slight localized warming but pose no health risks.
Is the Apple Watch Safe for Health?
Yes, the Apple Watch is safe, with no known health risks from its radiation levels. Its health features, like heart rate monitoring, can even promote a healthier lifestyle. Check out our Apple Watch cases for added protection.
Conclusion
Like all electronic devices, the Apple Watch emits radiation, but it stays well below SAR limits, posing no health threat for UK users. Keep your watch powered and stylish with our Apple Watch chargers.
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