A recent study has uncovered alarming levels of toxic “forever chemicals” in smartwatch bands, particularly from popular brands like Apple. As a result, a lawsuit has been filed against Apple in California’s Northern District Court, specifically targeting three of its smartwatch bands: the Sport band, the Ocean band, and the Nike Sport band. These bands, which are frequently bundled with Apple Watches, are reportedly contaminated with harmful substances known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), commonly referred to as “forever chemicals.”
What Are “Forever Chemicals”?
PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” are synthetic compounds that do not break down naturally in the environment. Over time, they accumulate in both the human body and the surrounding ecosystem. These chemicals have been linked to serious health issues, including increased risks of cancers, developmental delays in children, hormone disruption, and weakened immune systems. PFAS are widely used in a variety of products, including non-stick cookware, mattresses, water-resistant clothing, and, now, smartwatch bands, leading to concerns over their widespread presence.
The lawsuit against Apple highlights concerns over the presence of PFAS in its fluoroelastomer bands, which are a popular choice for Apple Watch users. The Sport band, Ocean band, and Nike Sport band are all said to contain these chemicals, raising questions about Apple’s commitment to consumer safety. This legal action comes despite Apple’s prior promises to phase out the use of such toxic substances from its products, signaling a gap between the company’s public commitments and its actual practices.
Other Affected Smartwatch Brands
Apple is not alone in facing scrutiny over the use of PFAS in its products. Other smartwatch brands, such as Google’s Pixel Watch 3, Samsung’s Galaxy Watch Sport T-buckle band, and OnePlus’s Watch 2 fluoro-rubber strap, have also been found to contain these harmful chemicals. These findings suggest that the issue is widespread across the wearable tech industry, prompting calls for stronger regulation and a reassessment of materials used in smartwatch bands and other accessories.
The lawsuit against Apple follows a separate legal action filed against Samsung for its use of PFAS in certain watch straps. Both cases highlight growing concerns over the safety of wearable tech products and their potential health impacts. Advocates are urging all manufacturers to take swift action to eliminate these toxic chemicals from their products, and there is hope that this legal pressure will push the industry towards safer, more sustainable practices in the future.