When the Apple iPhone 12 was released in October 2020, it was a game-changer. Packed with cutting-edge technology, the iPhone 12 series set a new standard for smartphones. Now, as we head into 2025, many users might wonder if the iPhone 12 still holds up compared to newer models. Despite the passage of time and the introduction of more advanced iPhones, the Apple iPhone 12 remains one of the best value propositions in Apple’s lineup, especially for Australian consumers looking for high performance without the hefty price tag of the latest releases.
The iPhone 12 offers a perfect balance between price, features, and performance, making it a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable smartphone in 2025. Whether you’re a longtime Apple user or someone looking to make the switch, this model continues to offer an impressive user experience. Additionally, purchasing through platforms like Wise Market Australia provides competitive pricing, peace of mind, and top-notch customer service, making it an even more attractive option for Australian buyers.
In this article, we’ll dive into why the iPhone 12 is still a standout device in 2025, covering everything from its design and performance to its camera system and longevity. We’ll also compare it with newer models and help you understand why it may be the right choice for you. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear idea of whether the iPhone 12 is still worth investing in, and how buying it through Wise Market Australia ensures you’re getting the best deal.
Understanding the User Intent and Audience Needs
To truly understand why the iPhone 12 remains a top contender in 2025, it’s essential to align the content with the needs and intent of the target audience. In Australia, consumers are looking for a smartphone that offers a premium experience but without the sky-high prices of newer models like the iPhone 14 or iPhone 15. The ideal user may:
- Want a Balanced Smartphone at an Affordable Price: While the latest iPhone models come with a host of advanced features, many users still prefer a phone that provides great performance and features without paying a premium.
- Value Future-Proofing: Australian buyers are savvy and want a phone that will continue to perform well for several years, ensuring that their investment holds its value.
- Need a Robust Camera System: Photography and videography are critical components of modern smartphone use, and consumers seek a phone that can handle everyday photo-taking and video recording with ease.
- Desire Long-Lasting Battery Life: A significant concern for smartphone users is battery performance. Consumers want a device that lasts throughout the day without needing to recharge constantly.
- Prioritize Software and Ecosystem Integration: Apple’s ecosystem is a major selling point, and consumers are drawn to devices that integrate seamlessly with other Apple products like the Apple Watch, MacBook, and iPad.
By addressing these core needs and understanding user intent, the iPhone 12 proves to be a device that continues to satisfy Australian consumers looking for a reliable, affordable, and future-proof option in 2025.
Comparison with Newer iPhone Models
While the iPhone 12 is still an excellent option in 2025, how does it compare to newer models? Let’s take a look at some of the key differences:
iPhone 13 and iPhone 14
The iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 offer some notable improvements over the iPhone 12, including better cameras, slightly faster performance, and larger battery capacities. However, the iPhone 12 still offers much of the same performance and features, especially for users who don’t need the most cutting-edge camera technology or battery improvements. Additionally, the iPhone 12 is generally more affordable than both the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14.
iPhone 15
The iPhone 15 is the latest model as of 2025, and it comes with several high-end features such as the A17 Bionic chip, a better camera system, and USB-C charging. However, for the average user who doesn’t need these premium features, the iPhone 12 still offers a fantastic user experience at a much more accessible price point.
iPhone 12 Design: Premium Build and Sleek Aesthetic
One of the standout features of the iPhone 12 when it was released was its return to the flat-edged design, a nod to the iPhone 4 and iPhone 5, which many users loved. This design not only looks modern but also feels incredibly comfortable and secure in the hand. Despite its premium feel, the iPhone 12 is not as expensive as the Pro models, making it a fantastic option for those who want a stylish and durable phone without breaking the bank.
Display: Super Retina XDR OLED
The iPhone 12 features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, which delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and exceptional brightness. Compared to older models like the iPhone 11, the iPhone 12 introduces OLED technology, providing a more detailed and crisp display. The color accuracy and HDR10 support make it ideal for watching high-definition content or playing graphic-intensive games.
In terms of durability, the iPhone 12 features Ceramic Shield, which is tougher than the glass used in previous iPhones. Apple claims that it offers 4x better drop performance, which is a welcome improvement for those concerned about accidental drops.
Build Quality and Materials
The iPhone 12 is made of high-quality materials. The aluminum frame gives it a solid feel, while the glass back supports wireless charging and adds a sleek touch to the design. The phone is also IP68 rated, meaning it can withstand submersion in water up to 6 meters deep for 30 minutes, making it a reliable companion for outdoor activities.
Color Options
Apple offers the iPhone 12 in five vibrant colors: Blue, Green, Red, White, and Black. These options provide users with a variety of choices to suit their personal style, adding an extra layer of customization to their smartphone.
iPhone 12 Performance: Future-Proof with the A14 Bionic Chip
One of the key reasons the iPhone 12 remains relevant in 2025 is its performance. Powered by the A14 Bionic chip, the iPhone 12 was a powerhouse when it launched, and it continues to offer top-tier performance even as newer chips have been introduced.
Everyday Performance
The A14 Bionic chip ensures that the iPhone 12 runs smoothly for everyday tasks. Whether you’re browsing the web, checking emails, or using social media, the phone handles it all without lag. The iPhone 12 is also capable of multitasking with ease, and the phone runs iOS updates without any slowdowns, making it a reliable long-term investment for Australian users.
Gaming and Intensive Apps
For users who enjoy mobile gaming or run demanding applications, the A14 Bionic chip delivers stellar performance. Titles like Call of Duty Mobile, PUBG, and Fortnite run smoothly on the iPhone 12 without frame drops, offering a console-like gaming experience. The powerful GPU in the chip also supports graphic-intensive apps like video editing tools and AR experiences.
Future-Proofing for iOS Updates
Apple is known for supporting older devices with iOS updates for many years, and the iPhone 12 is no exception. Even as the iPhone 15 and beyond continue to roll out, the iPhone 12 will likely receive software updates for several more years, ensuring that it remains secure and functional well into the future. This long-term support adds tremendous value for users who want to keep their devices for as long as possible.
iPhone 12 Camera: Capture Stunning Photos and Videos
The iPhone 12 offers a dual-camera system with a 12MP wide camera and a 12MP ultra-wide camera, making it an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts. Despite not being equipped with the additional telephoto lens found on the iPhone 12 Pro, the iPhone 12 still offers versatile and high-quality camera performance.
Dual-Camera System
- 12MP Wide Camera: The wide camera features an f/1.6 aperture, allowing it to capture more light for better low-light photos and videos.
- 12MP Ultra-Wide Camera: The ultra-wide lens provides a 120-degree field of view, which is great for capturing expansive landscapes, architecture, or group photos.
The iPhone 12 also supports Night Mode on both cameras, allowing users to take clear and detailed photos in low-light conditions. The Deep Fusion technology ensures that even mid-light photos have improved detail and texture, while Smart HDR 3 optimizes contrast and color balance for more natural-looking images.
Video Recording
The iPhone 12 supports 4K video recording at 24fps, 30fps, or 60fps, offering cinematic-quality video. It also has HDR video with Dolby Vision support, a feature that is typically reserved for high-end models. This makes the iPhone 12 an excellent option for content creators who want to produce high-quality videos for YouTube, social media, or even professional work.
Front-Facing Camera
The iPhone 12 comes with a 12MP front-facing camera, which supports Night Mode and Deep Fusion for better selfies in low light. It also features Dolby Vision HDR video recording, which allows you to capture high-quality video even in challenging lighting conditions.
Battery Life: All-Day Performance
One of the most common concerns for smartphone users is battery life, and the iPhone 12 delivers strong performance in this area. Apple has optimized the battery to last through an entire day of use, even with moderate to heavy activity.
Fast Charging and Wireless Charging
The iPhone 12 supports fast charging, allowing it to charge up to 50% in around 30 minutes with the right adapter (sold separately). It also supports MagSafe charging, a wireless charging system that attaches magnetically to the back of the phone, ensuring a secure and efficient charge.
iOS 16 and Software Updates
The iPhone 12 runs iOS 16, which introduces new features like customizable lock screens, Focus mode, improved privacy settings, and more. Apple continues to enhance its software to provide an optimal user experience, and the iPhone 12 benefits from these improvements.
Integration with the Apple Ecosystem
One of the key reasons many people choose the iPhone is because of the seamless integration it offers with other Apple devices. Whether it’s syncing with an Apple Watch, using Apple Pay, or collaborating with others through iCloud, the iPhone 12 connects effortlessly with the wider Apple ecosystem.
Why Choose the iPhone 12 in 2025?
Despite being a few years old, the iPhone 12 remains one of the best options for users looking for a well-rounded device that offers excellent performance, a stunning display, and a powerful camera system. For Australian consumers, purchasing the iPhone 12 through Wise Market Australia provides an affordable way to experience all of these features without breaking the bank.
If you’re looking for a reliable smartphone in 2025 that still delivers on every front, the iPhone 12 is the device to choose. Whether you’re upgrading from an older iPhone or making the switch to Apple for the first time, the iPhone 12 offers incredible value and a premium experience at a competitive price.
