AirPods and Heart Implants: How to Listen Safely

A 2022 study found that the magnetic fields from AirPods and similar devices can trigger magnet-safe modes in implanted cardiovascular devices (pacemakers and defibrillators), potentially impairing arrhythmia detection. While not a blanket ban on using AirPods, cardiologists and FDA guidance urge keeping devices at least six inches away from CIDs, avoiding carrying electronics in chest pockets, and consulting a physician if dizziness, fainting, or other heart symptoms occur.