The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) has issued Ministerial Decree No. 197 of 2026 to update the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) regulations for mobile phones and tablet computers, replacing the previous Ministerial Decree No. 177 of 2024. The new decree officially came into effect on April 22, 2026.
While the fundamental safety limits (2.0 W/kg for head/torso and 4.0 W/kg for limbs) remain aligned with international ICNIRP standards, the 2026 update introduces several significant changes to the certification process and applicable scope.
Key Updates in the 2026 Regulation
- Certification Requirements：
All certification applications for cellular mobile devices and tablet computers must comply with the SAR limit requirements specified in the Draft Ministerial Decree on Specific Absorption Rate Limits.
- Exemption for Tablets：
Tablet computers that do not include speaker functionality for voice communication near the ear are exempt from head SAR compliance requirements.
- Required Documentation：
Certification applications must include:
o SAR Test Report (LHU SAR)
o A declaration statement confirming the absence of speaker functionality for voice communication near the ear, along with related device specifications (applicable to tablets without such functionality)
- Provisional Arrangement：
If testing laboratories are unable to issue SAR Test Reports, certification applications may include a provisional letter issued by a domestic testing laboratory indicating the expected issuance date of the SAR Test Report. This transitional provision will remain valid until July 31, 2027.
- Report Submission Timeline：
SAR Test Reports must be submitted to the Directorate General of Digital Infrastructure within 14 calendar days from the issuance date of the SAR Test Report.
- Test Method：
Test methods refer to IEC/IEEE, EN, and FCC KDB standards.
- Retesting Provision：
Devices that fail to meet SAR requirements may undergo one retest using market sample units.
- Non-Compliance Measures：
If a device fails to comply with SAR limits based on both the initial SAR Test Report and any retesting results, the certificate holder will be subject to sanctions in accordance with applicable certification regulations.