Google Pixel 9 Pro XL (FCC ID: A4RGGX8B) SAR Test Explained
Every new smartphone must go through Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) testing before being sold in the U.S. The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, filed under FCC ID A4RGGX8B, recently received a “Pass” rating. At first glance, that might sound reassuring—but it’s important to understand that FCC standards only assess thermal (heating) effects from radiofrequency (RF) exposure. They do not consider non-thermal, biological impacts that have been documented in research over the past two decades.
In 2021, RFK Jr. and Environmental Health Trust successfully sued the FCC, claiming the agency ignored a large body of scientific evidence on non-thermal RF risks. Despite this ruling, the FCC’s guidelines remain anchored in 1990s-era assumptions about phone use and safety.
2. Pixel 9 Pro XL: Key SAR Values
Below are the highest reported SAR values from the UL Verification Services test report (FCC ID: A4RGGX8B). The device was tested from December 12, 2023, through April 24, 2024.
| Exposure Condition | Test Bands (abbrev) | Highest SAR (W/kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Head (Single TX) | PCE (Cellular) | 0.920 |
| Body-Worn (Single TX) | TNB (Cellular) | 0.993 |
| Hotspot (Single TX) | PCE (Cellular) | 0.841 |
| Extremity (10 g) | PCE (Cellular) | 2.460 |
| Simultaneous TX (Head) | PCE + Others | 1.593 |
| Simultaneous TX (Body) | PCE + Others | 1.593 |
| Simultaneous TX (Hotspot) | PCE + Others | 1.592 |
| Simultaneous TX (Extremity) | PCE + Others | 2.460 |
Interpreting the Numbers
- 1.6 W/kg Limit (1 g Average): The FCC caps head and body SAR at 1.6 W/kg to prevent heating effects. The Pixel 9 Pro XL’s highest 1 g SAR measurements (~0.993–1.593 W/kg) all stay under that threshold.
- 4.0 W/kg Limit (10 g Average for Extremities): For hands, wrists, feet, etc., the limit is 4.0 W/kg. The test shows up to 2.460 W/kg for extremities, also below the thermal cap.
Important: These limits only address potential tissue heating. They do not account for non-thermal biological mechanisms like oxidative stress, DNA strand breaks, or neurological changes that have been reported in various studies.
3. 5–15 mm Separation? The Testing Loophole
Under FCC guidelines, manufacturers can test phones 5–15 mm from a simulated body or head (i.e., a dummy filled with liquid). This distance stems from the 1990s when belt holsters were common. Yet today, most people carry phones directly against their skin (pockets, bras, or tight clothing). Real-world exposure at 0 mm can exceed these stated SAR levels.
In short, SAR results might look lower than what you experience in everyday life, especially if you frequently keep your phone on your person.
4. The 2021 Lawsuit: Why It Matters
RFK Jr. and Environmental Health Trust vs. FCC
- Court Ruling: The U.S. Court of Appeals found the FCC acted “arbitrarily and capriciously” by not updating its rules to reflect modern science on non-thermal effects.
- Outdated 1996 Guidelines: Still, the FCC has not revised these standards, leaving consumers without adequate non-thermal protections.
This legal case underscores why many experts consider today’s SAR regulations insufficient, particularly for children, pregnant women, or heavy phone users.
5. Non-Thermal Effects and Health Concerns
Even below the 1.6 W/kg limit, research suggests possible biological impacts from RF exposure:
- DNA & Cellular Damage: Studies show increased DNA strand breaks and changes in cell signaling.
- Neurological Effects: Potential for memory issues, sleep disturbances, and behavioral changes.
- Reproductive Health: Decreased sperm count and motility in men exposed to higher RF levels.
- Cancer Risks: National Toxicology Program (NTP) and Ramazzini Institute studies have found increased tumor risks in lab animals—even at or below “safe” levels.
6. Practical Tips to Reduce Exposure
Whether you’re using a Pixel 9 Pro XL, an iPhone, or any other phone, here are a few quick ways to lower your RF exposure:
- Use Speakerphone or Air-Tube Headsets: Increase distance between the phone and your head.
- Avoid Pocket Storage: Especially for extended periods—keep your phone in a bag or on a desk if possible.
- Airplane Mode: Switch it on when signal strength is poor or when you’re not actively using your phone.
- Turn Off Unused Radios: Disable Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC if you don’t need them running.
- Consider Shielding Cases: Certain RF-blocking cases can reduce direct radiation, though ensure they don’t force the phone to increase power to find a signal.
7. Conclusion
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL (FCC ID A4RGGX8B) stays within the FCC’s thermal-only SAR limits. However, the 1996-era guidelines do not address non-thermal, long-term risks that many scientists and health organizations are increasingly concerned about.
Until the FCC updates its regulations, it’s wise to stay informed and take practical steps to reduce personal exposure—especially for children and anyone with prolonged or frequent phone use. Ultimately, today’s “Pass” rating doesn’t guarantee complete safety in light of modern research and the 2021 lawsuit that exposed significant regulatory gaps.
Let’s keep the conversation going:
- Do you think the FCC should adopt real-world testing at 0 mm (pocket use)?
- Should they consider biological impacts beyond just thermal heating?
Share your thoughts or questions below—and remember, knowledge is power when it comes to RF safety!
Further Reading and Resources
- FCC ID Search Tool: fcc.gov/oet/ea/fccid
