Apple Watch Bands safe from toxic chemicals

What you've read is misleading. These reports all seem stem from one study that analyzed a selection of bands for smartwatches, a selection which apparently included some from Apple. But the study did not list details of the specific bands tested and failed to mention how much if any PFAS chemicals were detected in the Apple bands they tested. So the reports are at best inconclusive and at worst causing unnecessary panic.

But if you are concerned, stick with a metal or silicone watchband.

Regards.

Actually the study I read says 16,662 ofPFAS specifically PF H X nanograms per gram which is linked to brain cancer and they say that the ones made from rubber are the ones to avoid all the sport ones that are anti sweat.

Hi,

this is the research: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.estlett.4c00907?utm_source=syndication

You need to pay to read the full article, but these are some finding: https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/research-finds-smartwatch-band-laced-011943246.html

The bands tested as part of the chemical analysis include those offered by big names like Google, Samsung, Apple, Fitbit, and CASETiFY. Interestingly, Samsung and Apple both sell watch bands made out of fluoroelastomers, the core problematic chemical at the center of the research, and even mention its “benefits” on their websites.

This is unfortunately true if you read this article: Wearing your Apple Watch - Apple Support (CA)

What's in the bands

These are the Apple Watch band materials that come into contact with your skin:

• Ocean Band: Fluoroelastomer with titanium
• Sport Band: Fluoroelastomer with stainless steel, ceramic, titanium, or 18-karat gold

Fortunately I never used it. I just ordered one, but I am trying to cancel the order.

The above is copied from the Apple watch/band sales site & confirms that it contains a PFAS. When I contact Apple about trading for a different band of same price, agent knew nothing about the potentially unsafe band & could do nothing--including giving name and address of whom in corporate to write. Since I a) and a cancer survivor--so far--and b) need to wear the watch 24/7, I will do two more things: 1) post information with above Apple info on my Facebook site and another family cancer survivor with a watch and who has hundreds of viewers will do the same and 2) buy a different watch band since I need to wear that watch. But future in terms of buy from Apple after years of doing so? NO MORE!

See Wearing your Apple Watch - Apple Support (CA)

@surfcomic it says that watch bands made out of fluoroelastomer are the ones that contain PFAS. Silicone is safe and your Velcro is probably safe too but please do your own research always and check out EWR they have info on their website I suggest you start there. Good luck

The study stated that they had to use solvents to extract the PFA, and there was no evidence that any particular brand posed any measured threat at all. The article was probably touting for more research funds for a bigger study.

I would rather use fluoroelastomer than silicone or leather. Suggesting use of cheaper silicone bands that may contain lord knows what in the colour dyes is irresponsible.

Why would we stick to silicone watch bands if we’re concerned, since it’s the silicone bands that are causing the problem?