Apple released their long rumoured iPhone 12 at another of their virtual video events from Apple Headquarters this week.
All 4 iPhone 12 models feature 5G, a new A14 Bionic processor, a new industrial design with flat edges and thinner bezels, Super Retina XDR OLED displays, upgraded “Ceramic Shield” front glass, and a new 12-megapixel wide camera with wider aperture promising improved low light performance. So they were pretty much exactly as rumours had described in recent months.
MagSafe is back!
While all iPhone 12 models still have a lightning connector (with a cable supplied in the box, but no earbuds), they also introduce a new iteration of “MagSafe” for enhanced wireless charging using magnets and for attaching chargers, cases and accessories. Apple says the iPhone 12 can charge wirelessly at up to 15 watt speeds. There’s an Apple Watch-like MagSafe iPhone charger, iPhone 12 cases and a new magnetic wallet accessory that snaps on the back of the phone.
iPhone 12 Mini
Among the lineup, is a new iPhone 12 Mini with a 5.4 inch screen, bringing the full-screen/Face-ID iPhone experience to a smaller form factor for the first time. Expectations had been that this rumoured iPhone Mini might have been an entry level cheaper device, it turns out to be a fully fledged smaller version of the iPhone 12, including 5G, and OLED screen, MagSafe and the A14 Bionic processor. So those of us who have long been wanting Apple to release a premium smaller iPhone are in luck.
iPhone 12 Pro
There are also iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max models, with a stainless steel body, rather than aluminium. Both feature reimagined pro camera systems including an expansive Ultra Wide camera, a Telephoto camera with an even longer focal length on iPhone 12 Pro Max, and new wide angle cameras to capture beautiful professional-quality images and video in bright and low-light environments. iPhone 12 Pro models also introduce a new LiDAR Scanner for immersive augmented reality (AR) experiences.
New colours
iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Mini will be available in white, black, blue, green and red and iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone Pro Max in graphite, silver, gold and pacific blue.
So all up the iPhone 12s seem a worthwhile upgrade, particularly for those who have been waiting for a 5G iPhone, a smaller model or updated cameras. Pre-orders for iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro open on 16 October, iPhone 12 mini and iPhone Pro Max open on 7 November.
