In a world increasingly reliant on technology, wearable devices like the Apple Watch have become commonplace. Marketed as tools for health and wellness, these devices track our steps, monitor our heart rates, and even measure our sleep quality. But what if these very devices, designed to improve our well-being, were actually putting our health at risk?
A class-action lawsuit filed in January 2025 against Apple alleges just that. The lawsuit claims that certain Apple Watch bands contain high levels of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals.” These chemicals are notorious for their persistence in the environment and the human body, and have been linked to various health problems, including cancer.
The Lawsuit and the Chemicals in Question
The lawsuit, filed in the Northern District of California, specifically targets three Apple Watch bands: the Sport Band, the Ocean Band, and the Nike Sport Band. These bands, made from a material called fluoroelastomer, are popular choices for their durability and comfort. However, the lawsuit alleges that this material conceals the presence of PFAS.
PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals used in a wide range of products, from non-stick cookware to firefighting foam. Their unique properties, such as water and oil resistance, make them desirable for various applications. However, these same properties also contribute to their persistence in the environment and the human body.
Studies have linked PFAS exposure to various health issues, including:
- Increased risk of certain cancers: kidney, testicular, prostate
- Immune deficiency
- Liver damage
- Developmental problems in children
- Hormonal disruptions
The lawsuit against Apple claims that the company was aware of the presence of PFAS in its watch bands but failed to disclose this information to consumers. It further alleges that Apple’s marketing of the Apple Watch as a health-promoting device is misleading, given the potential health risks associated with PFAS exposure.
The Science Behind the Claims
The lawsuit draws on a study conducted by scientists at the University of Notre Dame, published in December 2024. The study tested 22 different fitness tracker and smartwatch bands for fluorine content, an indicator of PFAS presence. The results revealed elevated PFAS levels in several bands, including some manufactured by Apple, Fitbit, Google, and Samsung.
One particular type of PFAS, perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), was found in high levels in some bands. “The most remarkable thing we found in this study was the very high concentrations of just one PFAS — there were some samples above 1,000 parts per billion of PFHxA, which is much higher than most PFAS we have seen in consumer products,” 1 stated Graham Peaslee, a professor emeritus at Notre Dame and co-author of the study.
While the study doesn’t explicitly identify the specific bands tested, it mentions Apple and Apple/Nike products. It remains unclear whether all three bands named in the lawsuit were included in the study and found to have elevated PFAS levels.
Apple’s Response and the Road Ahead
Apple has yet to issue an official statement regarding the lawsuit. However, the company has previously committed to phasing out PFAS from its products, as stated in a 2022 document. The lawsuit argues that this commitment doesn’t absolve Apple from its responsibility to inform consumers about the presence of PFAS in its current products.
The plaintiffs in the lawsuit are seeking class certification, an injunction to halt the sale of the implicated watch bands, and monetary penalties. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the tech industry and consumer safety.
What Can You Do?
If you own an Apple Watch with a Sport Band, Ocean Band, or Nike Sport Band, you might be wondering what to do in light of this information. While the lawsuit is still ongoing, and the scientific evidence is still evolving, there are a few steps you can take:
- Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on the latest developments in the lawsuit and any further research on PFAS in Apple Watch bands.
- Consider alternatives: If you’re concerned about PFAS exposure, consider switching to a different type of watch band made from materials that are not known to contain PFAS.
- Contact Apple: Express your concerns to Apple and demand transparency regarding the use of PFAS in their products.
This lawsuit serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the potential health risks associated with everyday products. As consumers, it’s crucial to demand transparency from manufacturers and make informed choices about the products we use.
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