Apple is expected to release iOS 17.1 on October 24, according to a report from Bloomberg. The update will include a fix for a SAR issue that has been affecting iPhone 12 users in France.
The SAR issue has been causing iPhone 12 users to experience higher levels of radiation exposure than normal. Apple has already released a software update to fix the issue, but it is only available to users in the United States.
The iOS 17.1 update will also include a number of other bug fixes and performance improvements. It is expected to be available to all iPhone users on October 24.
What is SAR?
SAR, or Specific Absorption Rate, is a measure of the amount of radio frequency (RF) energy that is absorbed by the body when using a wireless device. SAR is measured in watts per kilogram (W/kg) and is averaged over a specific volume of tissue.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States and the European Commission (EC) in Europe have set limits on the amount of SAR that is allowed for mobile devices. These limits are designed to protect users from the potential health effects of RF exposure.
What caused the SAR issue on the iPhone 12 in France?
Apple has not disclosed the specific cause of the SAR issue on the iPhone 12 in France. However, it is believed to be related to a feature called off-body detection.
Off-body detection is a feature that allows the iPhone to determine whether it is being held in the hand or placed on a table. This information is used to adjust the phone’s power output and improve battery life.
It is believed that the off-body detection feature on the iPhone 12 in France was causing the phone to transmit too much power when it was placed on a table. This resulted in higher SAR levels than what is allowed by French regulations.
How will iOS 17.1 fix the SAR issue?
iOS 17.1 will fix the SAR issue on the iPhone 12 in France by disabling the off-body detection feature. This will reduce the phone’s power output and bring SAR levels within compliance with French regulations.
What are the other features in iOS 17.1?
In addition to fixing the SAR issue on the iPhone 12 in France, iOS 17.1 will also include a number of other bug fixes and performance improvements.
Some of the other notable features in iOS 17.1 include:
- A new favorites system for Apple Music
- Support for AirDrop over the internet
- Improvements for Photo Shuffle on the lock screen
- Fixes for a number of known bugs
How to update to iOS 17.1 in Iphone 12
To update to iOS 17.1 when it is released, simply go to Settings > General > Software Update. If the update is available, you will see a button to download and install it.
It is important to note that the iOS 17.1 update will disable the off-body detection feature on the iPhone 12 in France. This may result in worse data connectivity in edge coverage areas.
However, Apple has said that the SAR fix is necessary to comply with French regulations. Apple has also said that it is working on a way to re-enable the off-body detection feature without exceeding SAR limits.
Conclusion
iOS 17.1 is expected to be released on October 24. The update will include a fix for a SAR issue that has been affecting iPhone 12 users in France. The update will also include a number of other bug fixes and performance improvements.
iPhone 12 users in France should update to iOS 17.1 when it is released. However, it is important to note that the update will disable the off-body detection feature, which may result in worse data connectivity in edge coverage areas.