Apple is on the verge of launching its much-anticipated iOS 17.1 update, and it’s expected to be available to users by October 24. This comes after the French regulatory group, ANFR, took an active stance regarding radiation levels in Apple’s iPhone 12. France had directed Apple to halt sales of the device until it conforms to Europe’s electromagnetic radiation standards.

One of the primary objectives of the iOS 17.1 update is to address the issue of specific absorption rate (SAR) compliance in iPhone 12 models. The ANFR’s findings revealed that the SAR exceeded the European Union’s limits. In response, Apple committed to rectifying the situation in France.

There was a notable discrepancy in the testing process, with Apple contending that ANFR’s tests failed to consider the off-body detection feature in the iPhone. This feature plays a crucial role in enhancing cellular performance by boosting transmit power when the phone is not in direct contact with the body. Apple asserted that this off-body detection feature complies with SAR requirements and has been internationally validated.

However, in compliance with French regulations, Apple will disable this feature on iPhones in France once the iOS 17.1 update is deployed.

This adjustment might potentially affect cellular performance in areas with weak signals, but Apple assured users that the iPhone 12 remains a safe device, and this modification is a proactive step to ensure SAR compliance with European standards while maintaining a reliable smartphone experience.

The iOS 17.1 update brings more than just SAR compliance fixes. Users can also look forward to additional features and enhancements. These include improvements to Apple Music’s favorites system, support for AirDrop over the internet, new features for tracking bank and card balances in Apple’s Wallet app, and adjustments to the iPhone 15 Pro Action Button. These updates aim to enrich the overall user experience, ensuring that Apple device owners have access to the latest features and improvements, making their devices even more versatile and user-friendly.

With this iOS 17.1 update, Apple continues its commitment to delivering quality and innovation to its users while addressing regulatory concerns.