Apple Watch bands remain safe to wear, according to the company’s statement after users filed a class-action lawsuit about toxic “forever chemicals” found in some of its products. The company released a statement today to confirm Apple Watch bands provide users with safe wearing conditions while maintaining rigorous testing standards. The company uses both its internal evaluations and third-party laboratory testing to confirm that all materials remain safe for use.
Apple made public its intention to eliminate PFAS chemicals from all its products and manufacturing operations despite previous statements about product safety. The company made this choice because it supports its ongoing dedication to environmental sustainability and supply chain health protection. The November 2022 white paper from Apple explains the transition process will take time because identifying suitable non-PFAS alternatives requires extensive development to meet both safety and performance requirements.

Apple recognized the substantial hurdles in this process, which required building an exhaustive PFAS materials database while ensuring new materials satisfied quality standards and preventing the selection of materials that were worse for the environment than PFAS.
The lawsuit targets Apple Watch Sport Bands, Nike Sport Bands, and Ocean Bands because a study found “high levels” of PFAS chemicals in these smartwatch bands. The research analyzed smartwatch brands Apple, Nike, Fitbit, and Google but failed to identify which specific products contained PFAS.
Apple has not provided direct information about PFAS in its watch bands but continues to prioritize safety and transparency. The company maintains its commitment to environmental responsibility and product safety while working to eliminate PFAS from its products.