Apple Faces Lawsuit Over Harmful Chemicals In Watch Bands

Apple is being sued with a class-action lawsuit in a federal court in Northern California. The lawsuit accuses the company of selling Apple Watch bands that reportedly contain harmful PFAS chemicals, also known as “forever chemicals” which may be absorbed through skin.  These substances are linked to serious health risks, including cancer, immune system suppression, and development harm in unborn children. 

The lawsuit focuses on three Apple Watch bands: the Sport Band, Ocean Band, and Nike Sport Band. Plaintiffs, (parties who initiated the lawsuit) claim these bands, made from fluoroelastomer, contain high levels of PFAS, and Apple failed to warn customers while marketing the watch as health-conscious product.

PFAS are common in products like non-stick cookware and waterproof clothing. They are valued for their durability and resistance to stains and water but they don’t break down in the environment of the human body posing significant health concerns.  

Plaintiffs allege that Apple failed to disclose the presence of these chemicals, misleading customers by promoting its watches as healthy products. Additionally, it claims that Apple broke its 2022 pledge to eliminate PFAS from its products and could have used safer materials. 

Scientific findings from a University of Notre Dame study supports the allegations, finding high PFAS in several smartwatch bands, including products from Apple, Fitbit, Google and Samsung. The researchers detected particularly high concentrations of perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), a type of PFAS, in the tested bands. The study highlighted that fluoroelastomers, commonly used in smartwatch bands due to their resistance to sweat, skin oils, and lotions, often contain significant levels of these chemicals. 

However, Apple denies the allegations, insisting its products are safe and meet all standards. The lawsuit seeks class-action status, compensation, and a halt to sales of the affected bands. Until more details emerge, consumers are advised to avoid these specific bands.

The lawsuit seeks class-action status and demands compensation for affected consumers. It also calls for Apple to stop selling watch bands containing PFAS and to be more transparent about the materials used in its products. In the meantime, consumers are advised to avoid the specific watch bands mentioned in the lawsuit as a precautionary measure.