Apple Just Introduced Four New iPhone 12 Models, All With 5G

Apple today unveiled four new iPhone 12 models, which confirmed earlier rumors about a new “mini” model being added to the lineup. Buyers can now choose between an iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro or iPhone 12 Pro Max. Regardless of which phone you choose, 5G technology is available, which promises lightning-fast data speeds.

All of the iPhone 12 models feature expansive edge-to-edge Super Retina XDR displays for a brighter, more immersive viewing experience, and a new Ceramic Shield front cover, providing the biggest jump in durability ever on iPhone. The Apple-designed A14 Bionic, the fastest chip in a smartphone, powers every experience on iPhone 12, and coupled with an advanced dual-camera system (tri-camera system in the Pro and Pro Max), delivers meaningful computational photography features and the highest quality video in a smartphone.

The iPhone 12 mini is the smallest, thinnest, and lightest 5G smartphone in the world, with a 5.4-inch screen, measuring in at 5.18″ x 2.53″ x 0.29″ and weighing just 4.76 ounces. The specs are identical to the iPhone 12, just in a smaller form factor. In comparison, the iPhone 12 has a 6.1-inch screen, measuring in at 5.78″ x 2.82″ x 0.29″ and weighing 5.78 ounces.

For those looking to push the boundaries, the iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max models comes with a reimagined pro camera systems include an expansive Ultra Wide camera, a Telephoto camera (with an even longer focal length on iPhone 12 Pro Max), and new Wide 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 Night mode portraits, faster autofocus in low light, and next-level augmented reality (AR) experiences.

The iPhone 12 Pro shares the same dimensions as the iPhone 12, and weighs slightly more at 6.66 ounces. Meanwhile, the iPhone 12 Pro Max is the big dog, pushing the envelope with a 6.7-inch screen, measuring in at 6.33″ x 3.07″ x 0.29″ and weighing a hefty 8.03 ounces. While the extra real estate is nice, I doubt it would even fit in my pocket.

New for the iPhone 12 lineup is a flat-edge design that harkens back to earlier iPhones, which should be easier for people without cases to grip. It’s made of aerospace-grade aluminum in the iPhone 12 and mini, while the iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max use surgical-grade stainless steel. Nice subtle differentiators, but they’ll be lost on anyone who uses a phone case.

In addition, all iPhone 12’s also introduce MagSafe, offering high-powered wireless charging and an all-new ecosystem of accessories that easily attach to iPhone. MagSafe delivers a unique experience to iPhone, featuring an array of magnets around the wireless charging coil, optimized for alignment and efficiency, that perfectly connects to iPhone every time. MagSafe chargers provide up to 15W of power, while still accommodating existing Qi-enabled devices.

While the upgraded camera specs, faster processor, and MagSafe feature are all good, there are no real “game-changing” features that would have me rushing down to my local Apple store to trade in my perfectly fine iPhone 11 Pro. 5G is a nice addition for sure, but 5G coverage still is very sparse around here, so it’s not a must-have right now. That said, if you’ve got an older iPhone and want something new, there’s no better time to upgrade than right now.

The iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini will be available in five aluminum finishes, including blue, green, black, white, and (PRODUCT)RED. Pre-orders for iPhone 12 begin Friday, October 16, with availability beginning Friday, October 23. iPhone 12 mini will be available for pre-order beginning Friday, November 6, and in stores beginning Friday, November 13.

Meanwhile, the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max will be available in four stainless steel finishes, including graphite, silver, gold, and pacific blue. Pre-orders for iPhone 12 Pro begin Friday, October 16, with availability beginning Friday, October 23. iPhone 12 Pro Max will be available for pre-order Friday, November 6, and in stores beginning Friday, November 13.

Pricing for the iPhone 12 models is as follows: iPhone 12 mini (starting at $699), iPhone 12 (starting at $799), iPhone 12 Pro (starting at $999), and iPhone 12 Pro Max (starting at $1099).

What do you think of the new iPhone 12 models, and are you buying one?