You just got a new pair of Bluetooth headphones fresh out of the box, but before you even put it on your head, you see an article about the dangers of Bluetooth radiation. But how real are these claims, and should you be worried about them?
In this article, we’ll explain what Bluetooth actually is. So, if you’re wondering if Bluetooth is safe to use or if Bluetooth radiation is real or dangerous, read on.
What Is Bluetooth?
Introduced in 1989, Bluetooth has slowly evolved and replaced our cables. By 1999, the first hands-free mobile headset became the first consumer Bluetooth device. Since then, Bluetooth has been a staple in laptops, cellphones, headphones, speakers, keyboards, printers, and more. It has opened up a world of short-range, wireless experiences.
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You can’t beat the convenience of going wire-free. Great audio quality may always need wired speakers, but for music on your phone Bluetooth speakers are a must-have accessory nowadays.
Using a packet-based protocol, it uses a master/slave architecture that can communicate with up to seven devices at once in a piconet. With a radio communication system, they can work without visual line sight.
Depending on the class, Bluetooth works up to 300ft away. However, this also depends on the conditions between the devices like wall material, signal fading, etc. For Bluetooth to work, it uses electromagnetic radiation (EMR). While it has the word radiation in it, you shouldn’t be worried. Here is how EMR works.
How Does Electromagnetic Radiation Work?
EMR is the invisible energy emitted by objects at different frequencies. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), higher frequency EMRs contain higher energy levels.
There are two types of EMR: ionizing and non-ionizing EMR. Both of these EMR comes from both natural and synthetic sources. Found in X-ray machines and direct sunlight, ionizing EMR can remove electrons from atoms, which makes them potentially damaging to the human body.
Whereas non-ionizing EMR uses lower frequencies and produces lower energy. Some household devices that emit this type of radiation are lightbulbs, cellphones, television, and yes, even Bluetooth devices.
Is Bluetooth Radiation Dangerous?
Any Bluetooth device will emit low levels of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation. While research on the safety of non-ionizing EMR has been polarizing, there is a consensus.
According to the National Cancer Institute, the only recognized biological effect of radio frequency (RF) radiation in humans is heating. Due to the low energy levels, non-ionizing EMR does not have enough energy to break chemical bonds or remove electrons.
Additionally, the Food And Drug Administration (FDA) has said that non-ionizing EMR causes little to no adverse effects in humans in small doses.
Do I Need to Worry About Bluetooth Radiation?
As long it is below the frequency exposure limits set by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), your Bluetooth device is safe for daily use.
The FCC issues a Specific Absorbed Rate (SAR) or how much radio frequency energy is absorbed in the body measured in watts per kilogram (W/kg) or milliwatts per sq. centimeter (mW/cm2).
For example, in the United States, the exposure limit to 1.6 W/kg while Europe has a 2.0W/kg SAR limit for mobile devices. For context, the Apple AirPods have a SAR value of 0.466 W/kg. With this, it’s actually safer to take calls using your Apple AirPods over taking calls directly on your mobile phone.
How to Check If Your Bluetooth Device Is Safe
If you are wondering how to check if your Bluetooth device is safe, one way is to look for the SAR information. There are several ways that you can check the SAR values on your device.
View Device Settings
Many devices will have the SAR value within their settings. For iOS devices like iPhones and iPads, you can go to Settings > General > Legal > RF Exposure.
Alternatively, you may also dial the USSD code *#07# to get the SAR for your mobile phone device.
Check Your Device Manufacturer Websites
For devices made by large manufacturers, the easiest way to check is to search for your “device name + SAR value.” Most manufacturers will also have information on their websites about their device safety.
For example, Samsung has a dedicated page for users to view their device SAR rating.
Run the FCC Database
Should you be unable to find the exact device on your search engine, the FCC website will also have a list of devices that it has approved. To do this, go to the FCC database and input the FCC ID number found on your device.
For mobile phones, the FCC ID number is commonly found on the cover, behind the battery, or in the user manual. Using the FCC Equipment Authorization section, you can check if the manufacturer has been certified to comply with the SAR standards.
How to Use Bluetooth Devices Safely
There are endless benefits to using Bluetooth in our daily life. Here are a few ways to use Bluetooth safely in your home:
Use Your Phone Responsibly
When taking calls with your cellphone, try to put a 1cm distance between your ear and the phone. If possible, opt for Bluetooth earphones, which use significantly less energy, or use the built-in speakers instead.
Reduce Exposure to Children
When it comes to children, exercise caution when using these devices as well. As they are still developing, children are more sensitive to radiation than adults.
Choose Your Devices Carefully
Where possible, it is best to prioritize devices with lower SAR ratings. Additionally, buy only from reputable manufacturers with a history of FCC compliance. Often, these companies work to produce quality products that have passed stringent testing.
Use Bluetooth Devices with Caution
The verdict is still out there about how dangerous Bluetooth devices can actually be. If you are still not sure, checking the FCC approval is always a good start. Most of the time, devices that have passed standard checks are considered safe for consumers.
When it comes to safety, it is always best to err on the side of caution.
While this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the many benefits of Bluetooth technology, it doesn’t hurt to remain cautious. Before making a purchase, spend an extra minute to check how the device manufacturer, FCC-compliance, and usage recommendations to avoid any issues with radiation.
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