What is Specific Absorption Rate?

Specific Absorption Rate, or SAR, is a measure of the amount of radio wave energy absorbed by the body during mobile phone use.

All handsets we sell conform to the relevant SAR limits. Details for specific models of mobile phones are available in our stores and online.

We currently abide by a number of Government and voluntary commitments. They include publicising SAR values for phones and an agreement in the UK not to market our products to under-16s.

For those who have concerns about exposure to radio waves we suggest that moving the phone away from the body – for example by using a hands-free kit or loudspeaker mode if available – can be more effective than choosing a handset with lower SAR.

Radio transmitting devices should always be used in accordance with safety information in the user guide.

Pacemakers: Pacemaker manufacturers recommend that a minimum separation of 15.3 centimetres (6 inches) be maintained between a wireless phone and a pacemaker to avoid potential interference with the pacemaker.

• always keep the device more than 15.3 centimetres (6 inches) from their pacemaker.
• not carry the device in a breast pocket.
• hold the device to the ear opposite the pacemaker to minimise the potential for interference.

If you suspect interference, switch off your device, and move the device away.

Find out more:

• What are radio waves?
• What are cell sites?
• Base stations – location and roll-out
• Network roll-out - best practice