Handsfree Kits and Shields

Personal handsfree kits were developed to allow greater flexibility in phone use by customers. Some persons may choose to use these accessories to reduce their exposure to radio signals by allowing the phone to be used away from the head and body.

Various products are also marketed that claim to increase the safety of mobile phone use. These products generally take the form of shielded cases, earpiece pads/shields, antenna clips/caps, and absorbing buttons.

A mobile phone automatically operates on the lowest power necessary to maintain call quality. If an add-on device adversely affects the phone's antenna, the phone will attempt to transmit more power up to its specified maximum.

The GSMA believes that, ‘shield’ products are unnecessary, may not reduce exposure and are likely to reduce coverage. While present scientific information does not indicate the need for any special precautions, if individuals are concerned, they might choose to limit their exposure by limiting the length of calls, or using "hands-free" devices to keep mobile phones away from the head and body.