The iPhone 12 Shipped In France Still Have Earphones, But Other Countries Don't, Why?

Earlier this week, Apple announced the new iPhone 12 lineup without a power adapter or EarPods, as part of its attempts to prevent the accessories from being thrown away. However, buyers in France will receive the new phones with the earphones included in the box, thanks to the local laws.

According to MacRumors, the law in France now requires smartphones to come with a “headset” or “hands-free kits” to protect children at the age of 14 or lower from electromagnetic radiation. The French government does not believe that the influences of long-term exposure to smartphone radiation on health is settled science, especially with children.

In addition, the law requires the packaging, manuals, and ads to recommend using a hands-free kit or there may be a fine of $87,000. Specifically, the law says:

“Any object containing radio equipment cannot be distributed for payment or free of charge without a wired, solid and reliable headset. User manuals and packaging for mobile phone devices must contain clear and visible information prompting the use of a wired headset.”

The fear of the impacts of radiation has changed how people use smartphones in France. There have been protests against the use of 5G in various cities, some elected officials even called for delays in 5G deployment over health concerns as well as landscape blight.

Meanwhile, Apple says that by shipping the iPhone without the EarPods, it can help reduce carbon emissions, e-waste, and rare-earth mining. With the lack of these accessories, the retail box of the iPhone 12 is also thinner, allowing for an additional 70% more devices packed on one pallet. If buyers really need a pair, they can buy at a price of $19.

​>>> The iPhone 12 Will Not Come With The Charger Or Earbuds