The following detailed safety steps and precautions are recommended for users of pacemakers or other implanted medical devices around the iPhone 17, based on current expert and regulatory guidance:
Pacemakers and Implanted Medical Devices Overview
Pacemakers and cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) are implanted under the skin, often in the chest area, with tissue layers providing some natural distance between the device and external objects. These devices are designed to regulate heart rhythm but can be affected by electromagnetic interference (EMI) and magnetic fields if certain precautions are not taken.
Magnetic Interference Concerns with iPhone 17
The iPhone 17, like some recent iPhone models, contains built-in magnets for features such as MagSafe wireless charging and accessory attachment. These magnets emit magnetic fields strong enough to potentially interfere with the function of pacemakers and other cardiac devices. Interference can cause the device to temporarily stop working, deliver irregular pulses, or enter a "magnet mode" which alters its operation until the magnetic field is removed.
Recommended Distance and Positioning around the Device
Regulatory authorities, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and medical experts advise maintaining a safe distance of at least 6 inches (about 15 centimeters) between any consumer electronics that contain magnetsâsuch as the iPhone 17âand implanted medical devices. For wireless charging situations, a distance of 12 inches (about 30 centimeters) is recommended.
Recent research also suggests that the traditional 6-inch rule might be conservative due to tissue depth and clothing layers between the body surface and pacemaker, but maintaining this distance remains the safest approach. It is essential that devices not be carried directly over the pacemaker site, such as in a shirt or jacket pocket over the chest where the pacemaker is implanted.
A practical tip to reduce risk is to carry or use the iPhone 17 with the screen facing the body and avoid positioning the phone with its back (where the magnet is strongest) directly over the device implant.
Usage Habits for Phone Calls and Device Handling
When using the iPhone 17 for calls or audio, hold the phone to the ear opposite the side where the pacemaker is implanted to maximize distance from the device. Similarly, wireless earbuds or headphones should be worn at or above ear level rather than near the chest area.
Avoid placing a turned-on iPhone 17 directly against the chest or over the implanted device. Never carry the phone in a pocket over the pacemaker site.
Monitoring and Communication with Healthcare Providers
Patients with pacemakers are advised to regularly monitor their medical device performance using home monitoring systems if available. This helps detect any irregularities that might be caused by electromagnetic interference.
If experiencing symptoms such as irregular or rapid heartbeats, or if there are concerns about device function after using the iPhone 17 or similar devices, patients should promptly consult their healthcare provider.
Manufacturers' and Apple's Guidance
Apple provides a list of products containing magnets that may interfere with pacemakers, including recent iPhone models. Their recommendation is to keep such devices more than six inches away from medical implants and twelve inches if the device is wirelessly charging. Apple advises consulting your physician or device manufacturer for individualized instructions related to safe use.
Device manufacturers of pacemakers test their devices to withstand certain levels of static magnetic fields (e.g., up to 1 millitesla), but close proximity to a strong magnet, such as in the iPhone 17's MagSafe system, can exceed these limits causing temporary interference.
Other Electronic Devices and Environmental Considerations
Apart from the iPhone 17, other consumer electronics with magnets or electromagnetic emissionsâsuch as smartwatches, wireless earbuds, tablets, laptops, and home assistants âshould also be used with caution and kept at a safe distance.
It is advisable to avoid any situations where a strong magnet or electromagnetic field could be sustained in close proximity to the implanted device, including around charging stations, magnetic closures, or industrial equipment.
Summary of Practical Safety Steps
- Maintain a minimum distance of 6 inches (15 cm) between the iPhone 17 (and accessories) and the implanted device; hold the phone on the ear opposite the implant during calls.
- Avoid carrying or resting the iPhone 17 or wireless charging accessories directly over the pacemaker site.
- Position the phone with the screen facing the body, not the back with magnets, closest to the chest.
- Use home monitoring tools to track pacemaker function regularly.
- Consult your healthcare provider regarding any symptoms or questions about device safety with consumer electronics.
- Follow manufacturer and Apple guidance on maintaining safe distances from devices with magnets.