Last Updated on April 10, 2024 by Partha Protim Choudhury
Bluetooth headphones continue to be the popular choice for viewing and listening to various types of digital media by connecting devices without the need for cables or wires. But much like with other contemporary technologies, there are still some questions about how safe it is to use Bluetooth wireless headphones. As wireless headphones emit radiation, in this article, we will delve into the safety aspects of these Bluetooth headphones, debunk common myths. Furthermore, we will explore the science behind the technology, and some practical safety measures for users.
What is Bluetooth, and how does it work?
Many contemporary headphone models now come equipped with Bluetooth as a basic feature. Bluetooth allows devices such as microwaves and Wi-Fi routers to share a frequency band of 2.4 GHz to transmit and receive radio waves. Information exchange between devices is possible because this. Such data may consist of instructions for using the previously mentioned microwaves, files moved between computers, or, in the case of headphones, audio files from a device such as a smartphone or tablet.
Wireless audio streaming is primarily possible by Bluetooth technology, which is also the radio protocol that is in usage in wireless speakers, headphones, and in-car entertainment systems.
Do Bluetooth headphones pose a risk?
While Bluetooth technologies have become essential parts of our daily lives, concerns about human health are often overlooked. Wearable communications devices are likely to increase the amount of electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure at the surface of human skin, mostly because of their close proximity or direct physical contact with it, compared to any other type of wireless technology. Along with our computers, phones, and even microwave ovens, Bluetooth and wireless headphones emit radio frequency radiation (RFR), a specific kind of nonionizing (or low-level) electromagnetic field.
The body’s ability to absorb energy is gauged by the SAR value, or specific absorption rate. The good news is that, compared to cell phones, Bluetooth headsets have on average, far lower SAR values. So, it definitely makes sense to use a Bluetooth headset when talking on a cell phone. While the SAR value of a cell phone is about 0.5–2.0 W/kg, the SAR value of a headset is only about 0.001–0.003 watts per kilogram (class 3 devices).
Are wireless Bluetooth headphones safe?
It is important to be aware of health risks that are more immediate than minute levels of radiation, regardless of the kind of headphones you wear. Although Bluetooth and wireless headphones produce less radiation than a cell phone, some medical professionals are quite apprehensive about the duration of device exposure and where should they stay.
The real exposure to the head via Bluetooth devices, especially wireless headsets or earpieces, is only around half or a third of what you could experience from your cell phone due to their close proximity to the body or head. However, more research is necessary to get clarity on their use.
Are wireless Bluetooth headphones safer than wired headphones?
A little-known benefit of Bluetooth headphones is the seeming decrease in selective absorption rate, or SAR. The SAR rate is notably lower because the Bluetooth earbuds replace the cord with a miniature Bluetooth receiver, which reduces the radio waves produced while using the gadgets. Another major advantage of Bluetooth headsets is that you can keep your smartphone or other Bluetooth device up to 30 feet away from your body.
Experts generally do not believe that radiation from wireless headphones poses a health danger; however, additional research is necessary. It doesn’t matter if your headphones are wired or wireless—you should still take precautions to preserve your hearing and safety by wearing them less frequently, lowering their level, and paying attention to your surroundings.
Radiofrequency radiation, or RFR, is rapidly rising when it comes to wireless communications. As things are right now, there is scant or no evidence linking human cancers to exposure to RFR. Nevertheless, the long-term consequences of RFR exposure are still largely unclear, especially for susceptible groups like children. It requires further studies to determine the long-term consequences of RFR exposure. Try utilizing your electronics—including your Bluetooth headphones—in moderation to lower your chance of exposure to radiofrequency radiation.
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