Apple
Apple sued for using harmful ‘forever chemicals’ in Watch bands
The band can cause health issues like risk of cancer, immune system suppression, and harm to unborn children.

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Apple is facing a class action lawsuit accusing the company of selling Apple Watch bands containing high levels of PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” without properly informing customers about their presence or associated health risks.
PFAS are synthetic chemicals known for their persistence in the environment, as they do not naturally break down.
These chemicals can accumulate in the body over time, potentially causing significant health issues such as an increased risk of cancer, immune system suppression, and harm to unborn children.
While ongoing studies aim to clarify their risks, the durability and widespread use of PFAS raise concerns.
Apple hit by lawsuit over toxic watch bands
The lawsuit, filed in the Northern District of California and first reported by The Register, focuses on three specific Apple Watch bands: the Sport Band, Ocean Band, and Nike Sport Band.
These bands are made from fluoroelastomer, a synthetic rubber praised for its durability and resistance to oils and sweat.
However, the plaintiffs claim these materials contain elevated levels of PFAS, citing a University of Notre Dame study from the previous year.
The study examined 22 fitness tracker and smartwatch bands, including Apple products, and discovered significant levels of perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), a type of PFAS, in some samples.
The lawsuit alleges that Apple knowingly sold PFAS products while failing to disclose the associated health and environmental risks, violating California’s consumer protection laws.
It accuses the company of fraud, negligence, and unjust enrichment.
The plaintiffs are seeking an injunction to halt the sale of the implicated watch bands and financial penalties.
The Notre Dame research emphasizes that many smartwatch bands, including Apple’s, are marketed to sports and fitness enthusiasts.
During exercise, increased sweat and open skin pores could facilitate the absorption of harmful chemicals into the bloodstream.
While the lawsuit highlights three specific bands, it remains unclear if these were among those tested in the study.
Plaintiffs argue that Apple had access to safer manufacturing alternatives but failed to adopt them, undermining its health, wellness, and sustainability promises.
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