Why We Check SAR
Whether it’s the newest iPhone or the latest Pixel, SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) testing is a regulatory step all phones must complete before hitting the market. SAR measures how much radiofrequency (RF) energy is absorbed by your body when using the device. In the U.S., the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) sets the maximum 1 g SAR limit at 1.6 W/kg for head and body exposure and 4.0 W/kg for extremities (hands, wrists, feet, ankles).
However, keep in mind:
- FCC standards were set in 1996 and focus solely on thermal effects (tissue heating).
- A growing body of research points to possible non‐thermal biological impacts (e.g., oxidative stress, DNA damage), which are not factored into these legacy guidelines.
- In 2021, RFK Jr. and the Environmental Health Trust successfully sued the FCC, arguing the agency had ignored modern science regarding non‐thermal risks.
Google Pixel 9: Key SAR Values
According to the official test report for FCC ID: A4RG2YBB (Model G2YBB), here are the highest measured SAR values in various test conditions:
| Test Condition | Head SAR | Body‐Worn SAR | Hotspot SAR | Extremity SAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cellular Only | 0.872 W/kg | 0.986 W/kg | 0.846 W/kg | – |
| Wi-Fi / Bluetooth | 0.820 W/kg | 0.785 W/kg | 0.238 W/kg | – |
| Max (Any Single) | 0.986 W/kg | 0.986 W/kg | 0.846 W/kg | 2.469 W/kg (10g) |
Simultaneous Transmission SAR
When multiple antennas (e.g., cellular + Wi-Fi) transmit at once, combined SAR can go higher:
| Simultaneous TX | Head | Body | Hotspot | Extremity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max Measured | 1.594 W/kg | 1.594 W/kg | 1.594 W/kg | 2.469 W/kg (10g) |
- Highest 1 g SAR: ~1.594 W/kg (close to FCC’s 1.6 W/kg thermal limit)
- Highest Extremity SAR: ~2.469 W/kg (under the 4.0 W/kg extremity limit)
Tested Dates & Outcome
- Tested: December 12, 2023, to May 6, 2024
- Results: Passed (under the thermal guidelines)
Understanding These Numbers
- 1.6 W/kg Limit Is “Thermal Only”
The FCC’s 1.6 W/kg limit was established to prevent tissue overheating. It does not address potential non‐thermal health effects shown in many recent scientific studies. - Separation Distance
FCC testing often assumes 5–15 mm between phone and body (based on outdated belt‐holster use). If you carry your phone in a pocket (0 mm from skin), real‐world SAR could be higher than these test results. - Simultaneous Transmission
Modern devices often use multiple radio signals at once (cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.). This can raise overall exposure beyond what you see in single‐transmitter tests.
Regulatory Controversies: The 2021 FCC Lawsuit
- Children’s Health Defense & Environmental Health Trust vs. FCC
In 2021, a U.S. court found the FCC had failed to justify its refusal to update the 1996 guidelines, overlooking evidence of non‐thermal risks, impacts on children, and long‐term exposure. - Outcome: The court labeled the FCC’s inaction “arbitrary and capricious.” However, the guidelines remain unchanged as of 2024.
Health Concerns & Non‐Thermal Effects
Studies suggest that even below thermal thresholds, RF exposure may contribute to:
- DNA damage (strand breaks)
- Oxidative stress in cells
- Neurological changes (sleep disturbances, memory issues)
- Reproductive health impacts (reduced sperm quality)
While the Pixel 9 passes existing thermal‐only FCC rules, these do not guarantee safety from non‐thermal biological effects.
Tips to Reduce Exposure
Regardless of your phone’s SAR values, here are a few common‐sense ways to minimize RF exposure:
- Use Speakerphone or Wired Headsets
Keep the device away from your head and body. - Avoid Pocket or Bra Storage
Keep a few inches between you and the phone whenever possible. - Disable Wireless Radios When Not Needed
Airplane mode is your friend—especially at night. - Mind the Signal Strength
Phones emit more power in poor reception areas; reduce streaming or heavy data use if your signal is weak. - Consider a Shielding Case
Products like “RF Safe” sleeves can help—but ensure they’re designed so they don’t force the phone to boost power.
Conclusion: Stay Informed, Stay Protected
The Google Pixel 9 (FCC ID A4RG2YBB) may meet 1996‐era thermal guidelines, but evidence of non‐thermal effects and the FCC’s legal setbacks signal that these rules are likely insufficient. Until the FCC updates its standards, consumers should practice caution and adopt exposure‐minimizing habits.
Have questions or concerns about SAR or RF safety? Share your thoughts in the comments. Let’s keep the conversation going about real‐world phone use and the urgent need for updated safety regulations in the wireless era.
Further Reading & Resources
- FCC ID Search: fcc.gov/oet/ea/fccid