iPhone 12 Review
The long-anticipated iPhone 12 series emerged on the market in October 2020, and included a line-up of four exciting new handsets: iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max. Here we’re taking a deep dive into the specs and features to review iPhone 12 specifically, so join us as we unpack exactly what this phone has to offer – from the A14 Bionic chip to the advanced dual-lens camera system.
iPhone 12 Design & Display
In a move away from the smoothly rounded edges of iPhone 11, iPhone 12 features flat, aerospace-grade aluminium edges, which are curved to provide both ergonomic comfort and reliable grip. Sitting flush within this slim 7.4mm frame, there’s a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, coated in Ceramic Shield for ultimate protection from the elements, as well as scratch resistance.
Bezels are pared right back on this device, as the screen-to-body ratio comes in at 86%. This – combined with the True Tone technology and Haptic Touch on board iPhone 12 – ensures a seamlessly responsive user experience, as well as cinematic screening and vivid colour, whether you’re catching up on reality TV, gaming or simply scrolling through socials.
iPhone 12 Camera
Stylishly fitted into a curved square mount on the rear of the handset, the camera system on iPhone 12 is a compact but powerful dual-lens setup. There’s a main 12MP wide lens and a second 12MP ultra wide lens, with a 120-degree field of view to help you master those spectacular scenic shots, or get the whole gang into one photo.
There are plenty of photography features to make the most of too, like 2x optical and 5x digital zoom for detailed closeups, and several dedicated settings, optimized for different scenarios. Take stunning photos after sunset with Night Mode, or experiment using Portrait Mode, which comes with advanced bokeh and Depth Control to enhance the foreground and keep your subject front and centre. There are six different Portrait Lighting effects to choose from, so wherever you are, there’s a setting to suit.
On top of this, there’s a selection of professional-grade videography tech built into iPhone 12; you can record 4K HDR footage with Dolby Vision, and edit the video directly in Photos or iMovie. Night Mode Time-lapse is now available too, and ideal for capturing fast-paced footage after dark and, with optical image stabilisation on board, there’s no need to worry about shaky hands.
iPhone 12 Power
When it comes to power, Apple has pulled out all the stops for this series of devices, and iPhone 12 contains the fastest smartphone chip yet – the A14 Bionic – which you’ll also find in the premium handset in the lineup, iPhone 12 Pro. The A14 Bionic sets this handset apart, powering some of the most advanced tech built into the phone. This chip makes it possible to record in Dolby Vision, handle multiple demanding AR apps without a glitch, and efficiently run the operating system to maximise battery life.
This device also offers 5G connectivity, so while you’re in a 5G-supported area, you’ll get to enjoy all the benefits of the fifth-generation mobile network. Not only does 5G promise faster downloads and smoother connections during video calls, but the reduction in latency makes 5G more responsive to use. Think lag-free gaming, instant page load speeds and no more buffering during your favourite show.
iPhone 12 comes with iOS 14 – the latest operating system from Apple – installed straight out of the box. As well as the standard functional features such as Face ID and Apple Pay, there are several new additions included in iOS 14. Homescreen widgets will enable you to select precisely what you’d like to see when you unlock your phone, while App Library presents a new way to organise your most-used apps, and Compact Calls means makes multi-tasking simpler than ever – even while you’re on the phone.
iPhone 12 Battery
Designed for longevity, this handset can achieve up to 17 hours of video playback on a single charge, so the Li-Ion 2,815 mAh battery can keep you going all day, from tracking your morning workout right through to your bedtime audiobook.
However – when you do need to power up, you won’t be waiting around for long. You can enjoy fast charging using any 20W adapter or higher (sold separately) and achieve up to 50% charge in only half an hour, so there’s no need to plug-in overnight. If you prefer to go cordless, iPhone 12 is also capable of wireless charging, when paired with any compatible Qi-certified charger.
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