Smartphone Radiation Analysis Report: Some Xiaomi and Samsung smartphones are on top

Stocklytics has shared a report on the best smartphones according to their radiation levels. While this may sound surprising, a large number of Xiaomi devices top the smartphone radiation list that the report shares. We’re also seeing a Samsung phone that comes very close to Xiaomi’s top-rated smartphones.

What is smartphone broadcasting?

Have you ever wondered what happens when you hold your phone to your ear? Of course you connect with someone. Behind the scenes, however, there is a little more going on. Smartphones rely on radio frequency (RF) waves to transmit and receive signals. These waves emit a certain level of radiation and this is what we are talking about today – smartphone radiation.

But is this radiation harmful? Well, it depends. To understand the potential risks, we need to introduce a key term. This will be the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR). SAR is a scientific measurement. It quantifies the rate at which your body absorbs radio frequency energy from a radiation source, in this case your smartphone. It is expressed in watts per kilogram (W/kg).

Think of SAR as a way of estimating how much “radiant heat” your body is absorbing. Regulatory bodies such as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the US and the European Commission set SAR limits for smartphones. These limits are established to ensure that RF exposure remains within safe limits for users.

A closer look at the Stocklytics report

A a recent report from Stocklytics highlights a worrying trend. It shows increasing levels of radiation on the smartphone. This growing echo worries about the impact of technology on the environment. And it looks like our favorite phone brands aren’t immune.

The report identified Xiaomi and Samsung as the main players. There are several models that exceed expectations. The Xiaomi Mi A1 stands out, emitting a significantly strong radiance. That’s a disturbing 1.75 W/kg (ear) and 0.76 W/kg (body). Xiaomi’s Mi Max 3 series isn’t much better. It reaches 1.58 W/kg (ear) and an alarming 1.42 W/kg (body) for the non-5G model. The 5G variant boasts similar radiation at the ear, but increases body radiation even further by 1.56 W/kg.

Samsung is not far behind. The A23 5G raises eyebrows with SAR levels close to 1.5 W/kg for both the ear and the body. Even their popular foldable phones, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Fold 5, show alarming levels of radiation. The Z Fold 4 reaches 1.30 W/kg (ear) and a surprising 1.51 W/kg (body). And the Z Fold 5 is 1.24 W/kg (ear).

Smartphone radiation levels are expected to rise

The report also sheds light on the potential impact of 5G technology. With its wider frequency range, 5G raises concerns about potentially higher radiation emissions from smartphones. This highlights the importance of manufacturers prioritizing safe design practices as 5G becomes more widespread.

Of course, as regulators become more aware of smartphone emissions, we’ll see more manufacturers take it into account. So, this is possible upcoming smartphone networking technologies could lead to lower emissions.

Should you be worried?

The Stocklytics report raises valid concerns. However, before you ditch your phone, here’s what you need to know.

First, it’s important to remember that regulators set SAR limits for a reason. These limits are in place to ensure that our phones do not emit radiation at harmful levels.

The report highlights specific patterns exceeding expectations. But it’s important to note that not all phones are created equal. Several brands offer models with significantly lower radiation power. For example, the Google Pixel 3a and 4a and Apple’s iPhone 7 series fall in the range of 1.36 W/kg to 1.39 W/kg (ear).

Even in Xiaomi and Samsung there are exceptions. The report acknowledges that the Samsung Note 10 series, A55 and A35 series, and Xiaomi Redmi 5A and Note 7 Pro have relatively low SAR readings.

Ultimately, the decision is yours. If you are concerned about radiation exposure, you can do some research to find a phone with a lower SAR rating. However, it’s important to remember that staying connected often outweighs the minimal risk posed by current radiation levels in most smartphones.

How can you reduce your smartphone radiation exposure?

Although the Stocklytics report raises concerns about certain phone models, there are ways to minimize radiation exposure from your smartphone. Here are some tips:

Use headphones when making calls

When making calls, use wired headphones or a speakerphone to keep the phone away from your head. This greatly reduces the absorption of radiation.

Reduce the length of the call

Shorter conversations mean less exposure. Try to keep conversations short whenever possible.

Keep your phone in airplane mode when signals are weak

In areas with weak signal, phones tend to emit higher radiation to connect to distant towers. Enable airplane mode in such situations to minimize radiation.

Use text over conversations

Choose text messages when possible. Texting eliminates the need to hold the phone to your ear, greatly reducing radiation absorption.