iPhone 12 Pro is a notable upgrade over the iPhone 11 Pro on multiple parameters, some of which include a faster chip at its heart, huge camera capability improvements, and a new MagSafe charging system. However, one area where Apple’s latest offering falls behind its predecessor is rated video playback time for the inbuilt battery, which stands at 17 hours for the iPhone 12 Pro and 18 hours for the iPhone 11 Pro.
While this is not a huge downgrade, having to search for a charging outlet midway through the day is a pain, irrespective of the device you are using. To save you the hassle of always carrying a power bank or looking out for a charging outlet, we’ve rounded up a list of the best battery cases for iPhone 12 Pro. Take a look:
This 5,000mAh battery case from Alpatronix has enough juice to charge the phone’s battery almost twice. When you place it on a wireless charging mat or connect it with a charger via a lightning cable, it first allows the iPhone 12 Pro’s battery to charge, and then fills up the battery inside the case. It has a rubberized finish to provide extra grip and has a hard shell for protection.
Zerolemon’s 5000mAh iPhone 12 Pro battery case leans a bit heavily on the protective side, employing reinforced corners to handle accidental drops. Plus, the raised bezels will also protect the camera lenses. It is also compatible with Qi-certified as well as MagSafe chargers, while the lightning port at the bottom allows charging, file transfer, music playback and CarPlay.
With a battery of 6,500mAh fitted inside it, the Jerss case can top up the iPhone 12 Pro’s battery twice. It doesn’t support wireless charging, but music playback and file transfer is enabled by the lightning port at the bottom. However, it misses out on CarPlay compatibility. Plus, it has LED lights at the back to show battery status and has a button to turn the charging on or off.
Packing a 4,800mAh battery inside, the Suyue Y might be a great option for those looking for an iPhone 12 Pro battery case that is thin and light. It has a minimalist design, features a row of LEDs at the back to show battery levels, and employs raised edges to protect the camera lenses from getting scratched.
The Allezru charging case for the iPhone 12 features a 5,000mAh battery which is claimed to provide enough juice for an additional 32 hours of talk time and 19 hours of video playback. The case employs soft silica gel material to provide a good grip, while the hard shell backplate provides more structural strength.
This charging case from Luowan for the iPhone 12 Pro packs one of the biggest batteries at 6,800mAh that you will find in a case out there. Aside from a promise of solid build quality, it will also let users listen to music via lightning connector headphones while simultaneously charging the phone.
Our picks from the best battery cases for iPhone 12 Pro list?
Charging cases are thick, but if you absolutely need one and also happen to care about ergonomics, the Zerolemon charging case with a 5,000mAh battery case is the best option. Aside from supporting both Qi-certified and MagSafe chargers, it also works well with CarpPlay. And the best part? You get all that convenience in a relatively slim form factor.
However, there is also a class of buyers out there that wants a charging case with a huge battery. If you fall in the same category of iPhone 12 Pro users, the Luowan charging case is the one you should get. The 6,800mAh battery inside this case is enough to charge the iPhone 12 Pro’s battery more than twice. Plus, it has four LEDs at the back that will tell you the amount of juice left in the tank.
Also, don’t forget to check out more awesome lists of accessories for the iPhone 12 series such as the best MagSafe charging mats, protective cases, screen protectors, and more on our website.
iPhone 12 Pro is a notable upgrade over the iPhone 11 Pro on multiple parameters, some of which include a faster chip at its heart, huge camera capability improvements, and a new MagSafe charging system. However, one area where Apple’s latest offering falls behind its predecessor is rated video playback time for the inbuilt battery, which stands at 17 hours for the iPhone 12 Pro and 18 hours for the iPhone 11 Pro.
While this is not a huge downgrade, having to search for a charging outlet midway through the day is a pain, irrespective of the device you are using. To save you the hassle of always carrying a power bank or looking out for a charging outlet, we’ve rounded up a list of the best battery cases for iPhone 12 Pro. Take a look:
This 5,000mAh battery case from Alpatronix has enough juice to charge the phone’s battery almost twice. When you place it on a wireless charging mat or connect it with a charger via a lightning cable, it first allows the iPhone 12 Pro’s battery to charge, and then fills up the battery inside the case. It has a rubberized finish to provide extra grip and has a hard shell for protection.
Zerolemon’s 5000mAh iPhone 12 Pro battery case leans a bit heavily on the protective side, employing reinforced corners to handle accidental drops. Plus, the raised bezels will also protect the camera lenses. It is also compatible with Qi-certified as well as MagSafe chargers, while the lightning port at the bottom allows charging, file transfer, music playback and CarPlay.
With a battery of 6,500mAh fitted inside it, the Jerss case can top up the iPhone 12 Pro’s battery twice. It doesn’t support wireless charging, but music playback and file transfer is enabled by the lightning port at the bottom. However, it misses out on CarPlay compatibility. Plus, it has LED lights at the back to show battery status and has a button to turn the charging on or off.
Packing a 4,800mAh battery inside, the Suyue Y might be a great option for those looking for an iPhone 12 Pro battery case that is thin and light. It has a minimalist design, features a row of LEDs at the back to show battery levels, and employs raised edges to protect the camera lenses from getting scratched.
The Allezru charging case for the iPhone 12 features a 5,000mAh battery which is claimed to provide enough juice for an additional 32 hours of talk time and 19 hours of video playback. The case employs soft silica gel material to provide a good grip, while the hard shell backplate provides more structural strength.
This charging case from Luowan for the iPhone 12 Pro packs one of the biggest batteries at 6,800mAh that you will find in a case out there. Aside from a promise of solid build quality, it will also let users listen to music via lightning connector headphones while simultaneously charging the phone.
Our picks from the best battery cases for iPhone 12 Pro list?
Charging cases are thick, but if you absolutely need one and also happen to care about ergonomics, the Zerolemon charging case with a 5,000mAh battery case is the best option. Aside from supporting both Qi-certified and MagSafe chargers, it also works well with CarpPlay. And the best part? You get all that convenience in a relatively slim form factor.
However, there is also a class of buyers out there that wants a charging case with a huge battery. If you fall in the same category of iPhone 12 Pro users, the Luowan charging case is the one you should get. The 6,800mAh battery inside this case is enough to charge the iPhone 12 Pro’s battery more than twice. Plus, it has four LEDs at the back that will tell you the amount of juice left in the tank.
Also, don’t forget to check out more awesome lists of accessories for the iPhone 12 series such as the best MagSafe charging mats, protective cases, screen protectors, and more on our website.
Putting a case on your shiny new iPhone 12 Pro sounds like a repulsive idea, especially if one of your key reasons for buying Apple’s latest and greatest device happens to be its design. And in particular, those lustrous flat sides and sharp corners. But hey, even a small dent or scratch on the rear panel or its metallic frame would quickly become an eye-sore that you’ll have a hard time ignoring on a daily basis.
A thin protective case is the best solution in such a scenario, as it will protect your iPhone 12 Pro from any abrasive damage without hiding its sharp lines and adding any noticeable heft to it. We’ve rounded up the best thin cases for the iPhone 12 Pro to save you the hassle of going from one retailer’s website to another. Here it goes:
Among the thinnest iPhone 12 Pro cases you’ll find out there with a thickness of just 0.02-inches, the Totallee Thin Case is also featherlight. Aside from protecting the device from scratches, it also comes with the assurance of not getting loose over time and supports wireless charging as well.
As the name makes it abundantly clear, the Spigen Liquid Armor case offers military-grade protection and employs the Air Cushion technology for handling accidental drops. It has a textured grip on the rear panel that also keeps fingerprints miles away. And you get all this in 0.11-inch thick profile.
At just 0.9mm thick and weighing 1.05 ounces, the Ranvoo iPhone 12 Pro case has a soft-touch finish, wear-proof coloring, and anti-fading varnish coating on top. As an added incentive, it comes with three tempered glass screen protectors that rank 9H on the Moh hardness scale.
With a thickness of just 0.35mm, Tozo claims that its offering is the thinnest hard cover case for the iPhone 12 Pro. it is semi-transparentc, so it won’t fully obscure the color of your phone’s rear panel. It also has a matte optical texture to offer a better grip and supports wireless charging too.
The ESR case has a reinforced frame for superior shock absorption. The soft lining on the inner side effectively keeps scratches at bay, while the outer surface also keeps away smudges. Also, it won’t pose any issues with wireless charging either.
Easily one of the slimmest protective cases out there with a thickness of just 0.1 inch, it is yet another excellent option to shield your iPhone 12 Pro from mechanical damage without hiding its eye-catching design. It has an anti-slip texture and rocks raised edges for added protection.
Another excellent option from the house of Spigen, the Thin Fit case is targeted at folks who value a minimal design without losing out on safety. This scratch-resistant case is just 0.10-inch thick, has an open button design for a clicky response, and will not hinder fast charging either.
A thin case that offers serious damage protection without making your phone look like an armored vehicle, the Supcase Unicorn Beetle Style is the one you should definitely consider. This military-grade case has a shock-absorbent bumper and a scratch-resistant transparent rear panel.
The new Silicone Case by Apple is compatible with the MagSafe charger, thanks to magnets built inside the case. Of course, it will provide a familiar soft-touch finish that Apple's official silicone cases are known for. It employs a microfiber lining inside and has a relatively slim profile.
Need a thin case with an added dash of safety? The Otterbox Symmetry Series Case is where you should spend your dollars. This slim case offers military-grade protection against drops and abrasion, and also uses anti-microbial technology to keep nasty microbes from polluting the rear panel.
Another slim case with a rigid frame that should be on your shopping list, the Gear 4 Holborn Slim case by Zagg is claimed to handle drops from a height of 10 feet. It has a relatively slim profile for a hard case and uses the RepelFlex Antimicrobial coating. Plus, it rocks a soft-touch finish, and supports wireless charging as well.
My pick from best thin cases for the iPhone 12 Pro list
Well, it’s now time to choose a personal favorite. But before I pick a name, I’d like to make it clear that the iPhone 12 Pro’s gold colorway is my favorite, and I’d definitely like to flaunt all that bling. With that criterion in mind, the Spigen Liquid Crystal Case will be my personal choice for covering the iPhone 12 Pro. It is extremely thin, light, and uses the Air Cushion technology to offer an added dash of fall-protection around the corners. Also, it is MagSafe compatible.
However, if a clear case is not your cup of tea but you still want a form-fitting slim case, the Totallee Thin case for iPhone 12 Pro is a great choice. It is merely 0.02 inches thick and comes with an assurance of minimal loosening and peeling over prolonged usage. Totallee’s case is definitely for minimalists, and with an assortment of colors to choose from, you will certainly find a shade that you won’t be able to resist.
And hey, if you’re also looking to protect that gorgeous OLED display on your iPhone, pick one from our list of the best iPhone 12 Pro screen protectors. For more great product recommendations, stay tuned to Pocketnow as we have a lot more in the pipeline for you!
With iOS 14, Apple brought several major functional upgrades. Aside from the home screen widgets, another feature that stood out on iOS 14 was App Library. As the name suggests, the new feature automatically categorizes apps into groups such as social, creativity, etc. It makes the task of finding ‘that one app’ in a sea of apps fairly easy.
What is App Library on iOS 14?
The iOS 14 App Library is essentially a new space that automatically organizes your apps in a simple way to navigate. It resides at the end of your last iPhone app page. It organizes your apps in auto-generated categories, giving you the option to hide app pages and a new way to manage downloads.
How to use App Library?
To access the App Library on iOS 14, you need to:
Go to the last page of apps
Swipe from the right edge again
You’ve now entered the App Library that contains auto-generated app categories
Using the iOS 14 App Library, you can:
Tap an individual app to open it
Tap on the group of apps (the four apps bundle) inside the category to open the folder and see all the apps present in it
Use the search bar at the top of the page to find apps
Long press on the folder or category name or in the empty space in App Library to go into jiggle mode and delete apps. You can also add an individual app back to your home screen
Moreover, there is a new option to view apps alphabetically. All you need to do is pull down from the top of the App Library, and it will display all the apps in alphabetical order.
There’s more…
Having the App Library on iOS 14 also means you don’t need all the app pages. Hence, Apple has introduced a way to hide the app pages you don’t need to view.
To hide app pages on iPhone 12:
Bird’s-eye view of app pages
Uncheck the ones you don’t want to view
Long press on the blank area of the screen to go into jiggle mode
Tap the app page dot icons in the bottom-middle of the screen
Now, you have a bird’s-eye view of all the app pages present
Uncheck the pages that you want to hide
Tap on ‘Done’ present at the top right corner
The iOS 14 App Library on iPhone 12 (review) also gives you an option to disable new app downloads to show up on your home screen/app page.
To have new app downloads only show up in App Library:
Go to Settings
Find and go to ‘Home Screen’
You’ll be greeted by two options under ‘Newly Downloaded Apps’
Select ‘App Library Only’
Now, the newly downloaded apps will not show up on the app page, but will only appear in the App Library.
The iPhone 12 lineup made its debut with some impressive features in tow. The fresh design with flat sides was a welcome change, complete with an updated color palette. We also saw Apple adding a fourth member to its yearly update cycle in the form of the iPhone 12 Mini. But that’s not all. Apple introduced its customary chip successor for iPhones, alongside a host of other upgrades in the camera as well as connectivity departments to name just a few. Here, I am going to outline the top five iPhone 12 features that stood out for me and will be a major deciding factor for those looking to upgrade:
MagSafe – A glimpse into the future
MagSafe s one of the most exciting iPhone 12 features this year
Yes, we didn’t get AirPower in 2020, and the likelihood of it ever seeing the light of the day keeps getting slimmer with each passing quarter. But Apple gave us something new (sort of) with the MagSafe charging hardware. Yes, the magnetic ring you’ve seen in promotional videos is the one. Apple has placed the coil just beneath the iPhone 12’s rear panel for wirelessly charging the device. It looks neat, for starters. Plus, it eliminates the hassle of aligning your phone ever so carefully with the coil on a wireless charging mat to actually kickstart the charging process.
But MagSafe is far from the fastest implementation of wireless charging out there. Just take a look at Xiaomi, which announced a 30W wireless fast charging technology just over a week ago. So, how is MagSafe futuristic? Well, Apple will almost definitely refine it to boost the charging output over the years. And with faster wireless charging, the need for wired charging will eventually take a backseat. All this aligns perfectly with rumored plans for a completely portless iPhone of the future, something that prolific analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has also predicted to happen as early as next year.
Ceramic Shield = More peace of mind
The iPhone 12 series employs Ceramic Shield to offer superior protection against accidental drops
Okay, so your iPhone 12 is pricey, but the cost of getting a screen replacement will also hurt your wallet a lot. How much? Well, Apple will charge you $279 to replace the screen on the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro. And if the screen replacement cost for the iPhone 11 Pro is anything to go by, getting the same service for your iPhone 12 Pro Max will easily run you over $300. But Apple has introduced a new solution to reduce the likelihood of getting a screen replacement, and that solution is called Ceramic Shield.
Apple is calling it the biggest leap in durability in the iPhone history, promising 4x higher durability against accidental drops. Apple says that the Ceramic Shield “goes beyond glass by adding a new high-temperature crystallization step that grows nano-ceramic crystals within the glass matrix.” In a nutshell, the iPhone 12 series’ display is a lot more durable than its predecessor, and it will come as good news for folks who are not a fan of slapping a tempered glass screen protector on top of their phone’s screen. Needless to say, it is one of the more practical and useful iPhone 12 features.
Dolby Vision HDR
iPhone 12 Pro can record Dolby Vision HDR videos at up to 60FPS frame rate
The iPhones have lately been ahead of most Android flagships when it comes to video capture, and the iPhone 12 further widens that gap. With the iPhone 12 quartet, Apple has introduced the ability to record Dolby Vision HDR videos at up to 60 frames per second. This feature is exclusive to the iPhone 12 series, at least for now. Dolby Vision HDR promises a noticeable improvement in dynamic range and the overall color output of videos, especially if you are trying to capture something cinematic. And if the reviews that have come out so far are anything to by, Dolby Vision HDR videos offer a massive jump.in raw video quality.
It is one of those iPhone 12 features that will definitely be a treat for folks who shoot a lot of videos using their phone. But just like 5G, Dolby Vision HDR also leans more heavily towards the futuristic side than practical, since a majority of larger screens out there such as TVs can’t play true Dolby Vision HDR videos right now. Of course, the iPhone 12 series will play it natively and will also allow you to edit those files locally, but you can’t really appreciate a 4K video with all that 10-bit HDR and Dolby Vision magic without playing it on a larger screen. Even Apple’s own Final Cut Pro video editing software doesn’t support the new Dolby Vision HDR format, and will only be able to do so later this year.
The LiDAR sensor
Aside from AR applications, the LiDAR sensor will assist with autofocus and night mode portraits.
Apple has equipped the iPhone 12 Pro and its jumbo-sized Max sibling with a LiDAR scanner, the same circular black thing you will also find on this year’s iPad Pro. The LiDAR will open a new world of possibilities when it comes to AR applications. But there is more to it than just letting you see how a table would look in your dining area before buying one, or how a TV will look on the wall. Instead, the LiDAR camera will play an important role in further enhancing the imaging capabilities of the iPhone 12 Pro pair.
Apple says that the LiDAR sensor will pave the way for a faster autofocus experience in low-light scenarios. More, importantly it will also help bring the night mode portrait shots to life, something only the iPhone 12 Pro and its Max sibling can pull off at the moment. It would be interesting to see how Apple makes it even more useful to further enhance the camera output of its new ‘Pro’ phones.
5G – Apple finally catches up!
iPhone 12 marks Apple’s debut into the 5G ecosystem.
Yes, you can argue that 5G is still in its early stages of adoption, the network infrastructure is still immature and we are still far from reaping the full benefits of 5G’s capabilities. So, why pay for such a feature, and above all, why is it so important? Well, for starters, Apple is finally catching up with the competition, which started putting 5G-ready devices on the shelves all the way back in 2019’s first half. But that is just one half of the picture.
The addition of 5G is more of a future-proofing move, instead of being one of the standout iPhone 12 features. A majority of folks who shell out almost a thousand dollars or more on an iPhone 12 series device will likely use it more at least a couple of years, or even more. And by the time that interval elapses, 5G deployment would be in a much better state and users will actually be able to take advantage of a feature that is far from just another marketing gimmick to make headlines.
Of course, the slower sub-6GHz band is still the most widely rolled-out iteration of 5G, but it is still an improvement over the best 4G network you can get. And if you happen to live or work in a locale where mmWave band is available or your carrier has already updated its network infrastructure, you’re already milking the most out of your investment.
A little something extra!
Yes, I know that the iPhone 12 Mini is a device, not one of the iPhone 12 features. But it is more than just a device. Instead, it is an all-new entry point into Apple’s iPhone lineup that can be called a true-blue compact flagship, and not just a phone with an updated processor fitted inside an aging body – yes, I am pointing fingers at the iPhone SE 2020 here. With the iPhone 12 Mini, Apple is letting users experience the best it has to offer in a really light and handy package, without making any major compromises.
Aside from a smaller size (which also means a smaller display and battery), the iPhone 12 Mini is identical to the iPhone 12, and that is something which is really important for potential buyers like me. After all, if I am spending a sum of $700 or more on an iPhone, I want it to offer me a no-compromise iPhone experience, and one that won’t be left out due to ‘certain limitations’ when new features arrive in the future. And that assurance is what makes the iPhone 12 Mini a very compelling package – a device that offers you everything that the vanilla iPhone 12 brings to the table, but in a package that is smaller and less expensive too.
There are tons of cases available for the new iPhone 12 Pro in the market. We find different sizes, prices, and protection levels, which gives users more options to choose from. However, wallet cases are some of the best options available for anyone who loves to travel light. They conveniently protect your device, at the same time that it allows you to leave a bulky wallet behind since it has enough space for you to carry your personal documents and a couple of credit cards.
Now, you may be one of those users who love to travel light, and maybe you are also the proud owner of a brand-new iPhone 12 Pro. If that’s the case, you may want to take a look at some of the best iPhone 12 Pro wallet cases that are listed below. So you can give your device the extra protection it needs while also carrying your cards in the same place.
A beautiful leather wallet that will expand and accommodate almost everything you put inside a regular wallet. It can hold 5-7 cards and cash, and it comes with a 25-year leather warranty.
A wallet case that includes a sturdy and smooth semi-automatic sliding technology in a convenient compartment that will allow you to carry 3-4 cards and some cash. Plus, a TPU body with a metal base bar will also deliver extreme drop protection.
Spigen’s Slim Armor features Air Cushion technology and dual-layer protection thanks to its shock-absorbing TPU interior and polycarbonate exterior. It will hold up to two cards, while maintaining a slim and sleek design.
This case is made with premium, durable leather that will also keep your device safe from falls. It features three card slots and a convenient stand feature that will help you when consuming content.
This wallet case is made with high-quality PU leather with an embossed mandala pattern flower. It features three card slots, a convenient kickstand, and compatible with magnetic car mounts.
This wallet case features a powerful magnetic back cover, which will keep your device safe from falls. It also includes eleven card slots, three cash bags, one mobile phone shells, and a lifetime warranty to make your days more convenient.
This case features a premium canvas style synthetic leather, which provides an elegant and professional look, while its UltraGrip texture will provide a secure feel in your hand. It comes with two card slots for you to place your cards or cash.
This is a nice looking handcrafted genuine leather case that holds four cards and cash. It features separate pockets for cash and ID, and its flap can also be used as a stand for media consumption in landscape mode.
We have another handcrafted case from napa leather with contrasting red stitching. It features a durable silicone-based internal frame and a toughened rear plate that will aid with shock absorption if you ever drop your device.
This is Mujjo’s best protective leather case with a card wallet that will hold 2-3 cards at a time. Its super slim profile accentuates the phone’s design while keeping it guarded against falls.
A strong case made by combining high-quality Horween leather with rugged protection. It includes an internal shock absorption bumper and an exterior TPU bumper to keep your phone safe from drops.
This case will give you great protection thanks to its genuine leather outer layer and suede inner lining. It also comes with RFID Blocking shield to keep your cards safe.
Apple’s option will be compatible with any of its protective cases for your iPhone 12 Pro, so you can stack it on top of your MagSafe compatible cases, and it will allow you to carry up to three cards at a time.
Well, there you have it, our picks for some of the best wallet cases available for your iPhone 12 Pro. Remember that these cases can also be used with your 6.1-inch iPhone 12 since they share the same footprint.
Now, if you ask me, I would start by recommending the Spigen Slim Armor CS for those users who don’t need to carry more than a couple of cards or cash since it will keep your iPhone 12 Pro and your cards safe and in the same spot, without having to put up with the added bulk that other wallet cases give us.
If you don’t really care for the added bulk, and you need to have more cards and other stuff in your wallet. The best options for you to consider are the Pad and Quill Bella Fino Wallet Case and the ZTTOPO Wallet Case since they offer plenty of room for you to put everything you need. Just remember to remove your iPhone 12 Pro from the case before you try to charge it wirelessly.
Finally, if it were up to me, I’d go for the Mujjo Full Leather Wallet Case or Apple’s Leather Wallet with MagSafe since they come with a slim, leather design that will keep up to 3 cards with you at all times. Apple’s option is detachable, so it can be used with any MagSafe compatible case meaning that you can also use it with any other iPhone 12 variant.
The iPhone 12 Pro is a notable upgrade in ways more than one. A faster processor, next-gen cellular connectivity support, improved photography prowess, and of course, a cool new design. However, the need to jump the upgrade wagon comes into question when you already have a predecessor that is still one of the best devices out there. We’re talking about the iPhone 11 Pro here. How about a detailed iPhone 12 Pro vs iPhone 11 Pro face-off then?
If you already own an iPhone 11 Pro and are wondering whether the iPhone 12 Pro is worth making the switch, we’re here to answer. Dive right into this comparison to see how the two phones differ based on on-paper data and if the upgrades are worth your thousand dollars (or more) for Apple’s shiny new device:
Design Matters!
iPhone 12 Pro comes in a new graphite shade that looks pretty slick
Let’s start with the design first. The iPhone 12 Pro rocks a fresh design that adopts flat sides compared to the iPhone 11 Pro’s rounded curves. Now, it would boil down to your personal preference whether you like the curved edges that don’t dig into your palms, or if the shiny flat sides of the iPhone 12 Pro simply are an irresistible aesthetic touch for you.
Do keep in mind that the iPhone 12 Pro’s flat sides are not uncomfortable by any means. To get a better idea about how the iPhone 12 Pro feels in your hands, watch the first impression video by Pocketnow’s Jaime Rivera below to get a clear idea:
Both the phones use surgical grade stainless steel for the sides and glass on the rear panel. Also, the contrasting glossy and matte finish for the rear panel and camera isle is a common trait between the iPhone 11 Pro and its successor. But there is another small difference between the two devices. The front glass on the iPhone 11 Pro is slightly curved alongside the edges, while the front panel on the iPhone 12 Pro is totally flat.
Now, coming to the color options, the iPhone 12 Pro is up for grabs in Silver, Graphite, Gold, and a new Pacific Blue color that simply looks stunning. As for the iPhone 11 Pro, it is available in Gold, Space Gray, Silver, Midnight Green.
Internal Upgrades
Now, let’s talk about the innards. The iPhone 12 Pro draws power from the new A14 Bionic chip that is based on the 5nm process and has a 16-core Neural Engine that is claimed to offer an 80% performance boost. As for the main processor itself, it is said to offer almost a 50% higher CPU and GPU output compared to the fastest non-Apple mobile SoC out there. To put it simply, the A14 Bionic is crazy fast and has enough firepower to handle anything you throw at it, at least for the next couple of years.
As for the iPhone 11 Pro, it is powered by the A13 Bionic, which is still powerful enough to give the fastest Qualcomm chips a run for their money. So, if you are eyeing the iPhone 12 Pro primarily for that extra dash of processing power, you should save a few hundred benjamins and stick to the iPhone 11 Pro for at least another year.
iPhone 12 Pro introduces the new MagSafe wireless charging system
We don’t know the amount of RAM Apple has fitted inside the iPhone 12 Pro (or if it is more than the iPhone 11 Pro), but with a steady update cycle and system optimizations, you can rest assured that your iPhone 11 Pro won’t run into performance or multi-tasking bottlenecks anytime soon. However, if you need more onboard storage than what your daily driver iPhone 11 Pro has to offer, then the upgrade to a more GB-heavy iPhone 12 Pro model is justified.
Interestingly, the battery has not received any major upgrade this year. The streamed video playback duration on the iPhone 12 Pro stands at 11 hours, which is identical to what you get on the iPhone 11 Pro as well. Audio playback longevity on a single charge also remains the same at 65 hours. However, if you’re playing a local file, the iPhone 12 Pro will only last you an hour longer than the iPhone 11 Pro.
The flat sides of iPhone 12 Pro (right) against the curved frame of the iPhone 11 Pro (left)
But there is one big difference this year. Apple has fitted a magnetic ring just below the iPhone 12 Pro’s rear panel, and it is a part of the MagSafe charging system. Thanks to it, the tiny new MagSafe charging disc can conveniently attach itself to the device. What this means is you can keep using the iPhone 12 Pro while it charges wirelessly, just like you would with a cable plugged into the phone’s Lightning port.
Talking about charging, both phones can be juiced up to 50% in just 30 minutes with a compatible fast charger. In case you’re wondering, the iPhone 12 Pro and its predecessor, both support wireless charging over the Qi standard. Also, both the phones support dual-SIM connectivity.
Talking about connectivity, the iPhone 12 Pro takes a leap forward with support for 5G, while the iPhone 11 Pro is limited to 4G. If you really, really want those blazing fast download speeds, make sure that the area you live in, or work, offers good 5G reception. Otherwise, you would just end up paying the proverbial ‘5G tax’ like many others who live in regions where the state of 5G rollout is abysmal.
Camera Enhancements
The iPhone 12 Pro adds a LiDAR sensor to the triple rear camera setup
The iPhone 12 Pro is a big leap when it comes to imaging capabilities. Yes, it has three cameras just like the iPhone 11 Pro, but it also adds a LiDAR sensor. The LiDAR sensor, aside from opening the doors for new AR applications, also assists at quicker focus lock and enables features such as Night Mode portrait shots. Let’s have a look at the camera hardware first and few areas where the iPhone 12 Pro takes a lead:
iPhone 12 Pro
iPhone 11 Pro
REAR CAMERAS:
REAR CAMERAS
Wide: 12MP, f/1.6
Wide: 12MP, f/2.4
Ultra-wide: 12MP, f/2.4
Ultra-wide: 12MP, f/2.4
Telephoto: 12MP, f/2.0
Telephoto: 12MP. f/2.0
Apple ProRAW
—
Night mode portraits
—
Smart HDR 3 for photos
Smart HDR for photos
Dolby Vision HDR video recording at up to 60fps
—
Night mode Time-lapse
—
FRONT CAMERA
FRONT CAMERA
12MP, f/2.2 TrueDepth
12MP, f/2.2 TrueDepth
Smart HDR 3 for photos
Smart HDR for photos
Dolby Vision HDR video recording at up to 30fps
—
Night Mode
—
Dep Fusion
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Both the iPhone 11 Pro and its successor feature a triple 12MP camera hardware. But there are a few differences here. The iPhone 12 Pro’s main camera has a wider f/1.6 aperture that is claimed to bring in 27% more light, which essentially means brighter and more detailed photos. Another difference is that the wide camera on iPhone 12 Pro uses a 7-element lens system, while the one on its predecessor has a 6-element lens setup.
But hardware is just half the story. The iPhone 12 Pro introduces a host of new camera capabilities. The first one is the ability to capture night time portraits, a feature that has been brought to life by taking advantage of the LiDAR. Talking about low-light photography, the iPhone 12 Pro also adds support for capturing Night mode Time-Lapse videos.
iPhone 11 also has a triple camera setup, but it has a less powerful wide camera compared to iPhone 12 Pro.
Notably, the front camera has also gained support for Night Mode, which means you can now capture brighter and crisper selfies. Apple has also upgraded the HDR performance, introducing the improved Smart HDR 3 technology with the iPhone 12 series.
Coming to video capture, both the phones can capture up to 4K 60fps using the front as well as rear cameras. But there are a few areas where the iPhone 12 Pro again takes a lead. The most important one is the iPhone 12 Pro’s ability to captureDolbyVision HDR videos at up to 60fps using the rear camera, and up to 30fps Dolby Vision HDR videos with the 12MP front camera.
Another iPhone 12 Pro feature that serious photographers as well as enthusiasts will enjoy is the new ProRAW mode. Apple says the ProRAW combines the benefits of RAW capture with its computational photography and multi-frame image processing to offer more creative control. And all that editing can be done natively on the iPhone 12 Pro.
To put it simply, camera capabilities are the iPhone 12 Pro’s main selling points, and it should be your main reason for upgrading from an iPhone 11 Pro. If you’ve been holding on to your two or three generations old iPhone and waiting for a legitimate successor that can justify the price premium, the iPhone 12 Pro is definitely worth serious consideration. But if you own an iPhone 11 Pro, you might want to keep it for another year and wait for Apple’s 2021 iPhone lineup.
When Apple introduced the iPhone 12 series, the company made it a point to talk about the enhanced durability of its new devices, thanks to the new Ceramic Shield front cover. Apple called it the biggest leap in iPhone history when it comes to durability and says that it relies on an added high-temperature crystallization step that grows nano-ceramic crystals within the glass matrix, enhancing its durability by a factor of 4x compared to the previous-gen iPhones.
While those claims are yet to be put to test, we’d suggest putting a screen protector on your shiny new iPhone 12 Pro as a ‘just in case’ scenario. After all, it’s worth spending some $30 on a screen protector rather than paying $279 to get a screen replacement.
We’ve rounded up the best iPhone 12 Pro screen protectors to save you the hassle of looking through all of them, so you can make sure your screen is protected out of the box!
Manufactured using the double ion-exchange process, this screen protector is claimed to offer superior clarity, 2x material strength and almost 99% protection against bacterial growth. It measures an impressive 9H on the Moh hardness scale.
Made out of shatterproof sapphire glass, the Torras Diamond Hard Screen Protector is claimed to survive drops from a height of 6 feet, has an oleophobic as well as a hydrophobic coating on top, and also blocks harmful blue light to a certain extent.
The Spigen Glas.tR EZ Fit tempered glass screen protector has a material hardness of 9H on the Moh scale, which means it will easily keep scratches at bay. It has an oleophobic coating on top and comes with an auto-alignment installation kit.
This ultra-thin tempered glass screen protector from Torras is claimed to survive drops from a height of 6 feet and can also withstand a high level of external pressure. Aside from being easy to install, it will also keep fingerprints and smudges away.
Maggglass’ matte finish screen protector for the iPhone12 Pro has an anti-glare surface texture to keep reflections, as well as fingerprints and oil smudges in check. Plus, the material used to make it can is claimed to repel most common germs.
This anti-scratch screen protector from Otterbox ranks 9H on the Moh hardness scale, which means it will safeguard your iPhone 12 Pro’s screen with ease. Otterbox also claims that this case offers much higher clarity compared to soda-lime glass.
ESR claims that its tempered glass screen protector can withstand a vertical pressure of up to 5kg and has an ultra-clear material, which means it won’t affect Face ID authentication. It has an anti-fingerprint coating and ships with an installation kit.
Caseology’s ultra-thin tempered glass screen protector for the iPhone 12 Pro has an anti-dust coating and can also repel liquid exposure to a good extent. This case is claimed to offer superior visual clarity and rocks an oleophobic coating as well.
Standing at the 9H mark - the highest rating for glass - on the Moh hardness scale, the QHOHQ tempered glass screen protector for the iPhone 12 Pro also has an oleophobic coating on top and is also claimed to block and filter ultraviolet rays.
The Otterbox Amplify Blue Light Guard for the iPhone 12 Pro will not only protect the display from scratches and scrapes but will also cut down on blue light exposure to your eyes. Plus, the silver ions infused in the glass will keep microbes at bay. Otterbox notes that its offerings is also 5x more sratch-resistant than regular tempered glass
The ZAGG InvisibleShield Glass Elite screen protector is is infused with Kastus antimicrobial technology that is claimed to kill up to 99.9% of common surface bacteria. ZAGG claims it is the strongest glass screen protection ever offered by the company, a claim that lends this product additional credibility.
The ZAGG InvisibleShield Glass+ screen protector is claimed to be 3x more effective at shatter protection and uses an ion matrix technology to preserve the smooth feel of glass. ZAGG claims that this screen protector offers 100% clarity, which means you won't miss anything in terms of color reproduction.
Our pick from the best iPhone 12 screen protectors list?
Well, these were our picks for the best iPhone 12 Pro screen protectors you can find out there. As for our personal pick, the Belkin UltraGlass Anti-Microbial screen protector seems the best option out there. Measuring at 9H on the Moh hardness scale, you can rest assured that this screen protector will keep your iPhone 12 Pro’s OLED display safe from ugly scratches. Plus, its ultra-thin form factor, high visual clarity, and anti-microbial coating offer an even higher incentive to shell some benjamins on it.
However, if you are looking for an affordable option without compromising on safety, the QHOHQ screen protector (pack of 3) can be yours for just around $10. It also measures 9H on the Moh hardness scale, has an oleophobic coating on top, and can also block UV rays. QHOHQ’s offering is also quite thin at just 0.2mm and has an arc edge of 2.5D to provide a comfortable scrolling experience around the edges.
In the meanwhile, check out Pocketnow’s take on the iPhone 12 and its Pro sibling in the video below, in which Jaime Rivera talks about his initial impressions of using Apple’s new devices. And for the in-depth review and more cool product recommendations, stay tuned to Pocketnow, as we got a lot more stuff coming your way. Ciao!
After LTE and 5G connectivity issue, the iPhone 12 series seems to have been plagued with a new issue. The iPhone 12 battery drain complaints continue to mount as the issue is being reported by several users now. An iPhone 12 Pro user on Apple forums wrote that his unit was draining battery power when idle with almost no background activity at a rate of 4 percent per hours. He claims that it is much faster than his previous iPhone 11 Pro. It was not a one-off thing as several other users chimed in saying they are experiencing the same issue of battery drain even when the iPhone was on standby.
The latest development comes from Apple forums, which are filled with complaints about the iPhone 12 series battery drain issue. Users are reporting that their iPhone 12 units are draining a significant battery on standby, with almost no background activity and 5G turned off as well. While some users have experienced a battery drain of as much as 10 percent, some have also reported having lost 30 percent of battery power overnight on idle mode. I’ve been using the iPhone 12 as my daily driver for a month now, and I haven’t faced any such issue. Hence, not all the new iPhone 12 units seem to have been affected
I've been using the iPhone 12 as my daily driver for a month now, and I haven't faced any such issue.
One of the first complaints by user Master26A on Apple forums says, “I’m noticing that the iPhone 12 Pro is draining when idle with almost no background activity at a rate of 4 percent which is much faster than my previous iPhone 11 Pro. First instinct was to disable Mobile data to see if it was a 5G thing, but I actually don’t see any real difference from doing that (which makes sense as I’ve been on WiFi 98 percent of the time since I got it)”. While another user goes on to say that he lost around 30 percent battery power in 10 hours at night. He says this is significantly more than his iPhone 11 that lost around 5 percent at the same time.
One of the customers contacted Apple and detailed the conversation on the forum – “I spoke to Apple support today & they ran diagnostics saying that everything checks out. I imagine what this means is that there is a software issue causing the battery to drain – hopefully they sort it soon.”
We have selected some of the best Apple deals available right now. The latest Black Friday deals give us discounts on the newest iPhone 12 lineup, iPad Pros, MacBooks, and more.
We will start this selection with the iPhone 12 Pro, which can be yours for $629 after a $370 discount when you trade in an eligible device. Of course, that means that you would get the base model with 128GB storage, and you will also be able to choose four different color options, including the sexy Pacific Blue. However, you can also get the same discount when purchasing the 12 Pro Max, which would leave Apple’s best phone at $729, with the same color options.
On the other hand, we also find deals on Apple’s iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini, as you can get them for $549 and $449 after a $250 discount when you grade in an eligible device. These phones are available in five color options, and you get 64GB storage in the base model.
We then move onto the PC and laptop department, as we see the new 27-inch iMac with Retina 5K display selling for $1,649 after a $150 discount. This pc includes 8GB RAM, a 256GB SSD, and a 3.1GHz Intel Core i5 processor powers it. The previous model with a 21.5-inch display, 8GB RAM, and 1TB storage can be yours for just under $1,000 with $99 savings. You can also get a new Apple Magic Keyboard while you’re at it with a numeric keypad for $119 after a $10 discount.
Apple’s previous 13-inch MacBook Pro is getting a $150 discount, leaving the 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and 2.0GHz Intel Core i5 processor version at $1,649. The 16-inch MacBook Pro with an Intel Core i7 processor can be yours for $2,149 with $250 savings, and you also get 16GB RAM and 512GB storage space. Finally, the MacBook Air is getting a $100 discount, leaving it at $899 in its 256GB SSD variant with 8GB RAM. However, you may want to remember that the latest M1 powered Macs are way more powerful than the recently mentioned products.
Now, moving on to tablets, there are several iPad options to choose from. We have the new 11-inch WiFi-only iPad Pro with 1TB storage space for $1,199. The 512GB is priced at $999, and the 256GB version will cost you $799 with the same $100 discount in every variant. If you want cellular connectivity, you can get it for $899 with 128GB storage and a $50 discount, and discounts go up to $150 if you get the 1TB version, leaving it at $1,299.
The larger 12.9-inch version with 128GB is also getting a $100 discount, leaving it at $899 with WiFi-only, or get the 256GB version with cellular connectivity for $1,159 and a $99 discount.
Other iPad options include Apple’s latest 10.2-inch iPad with 32GB storage space for $299. This version is usually found for $329, so that means that you get to save $30 in its WiFi-only version. The latest version of the iPad mini is getting a $20 discount, leaving the 64GB, WiFi-only version for $379. Finally, the new Apple iPad Air sells for $559 after a $40 discount with 64GB storage space.
The Apple Watch is also getting tons of discounts. We start with the Apple Watch Series 6 with a $50 discount, leaving the GPS + Cellular 40mm version for $699 with a gold stainless steel case and gold Milanese loop band. The GPS-only version of the Watch Series 6 in RED is up for grabs at $330 with $69 savings. The Apple Watch SE is selling for $259 with a $20 discount, the Series 5 with cellular connectivity is getting a $250 discount, leaving it at $499, while the GPS-only version is selling for $329 with $100 savings.
If you’re looking for a pair of headphones, Apple’s AirPods Pro are currently selling for $199 with a $50 discount. The AirPods with a wired charging case can be yours for $119 with $40 savings. Apple’s Beats are also getting some interesting discounts, as the Powerbeats are getting a $50 discount, leaving them at just under $100. The Powerbeats Pro totally wireless earphones with Apple’s H1 chip are getting a $90 discount, leaving them at $160, and the Beats Solo Pro are getting a massive $129.96 discount, leaving them at just $170 in Light Blue. Other color options are also on sale, but they may not save you as much money.
There is no such thing as a perfect device, and users usually start to find a couple of issues during the first weeks of use. The same thing applies to the latest iPhone 12 lineup, which is beginning to present some problems in three of its four variants.
It seems that early iPhone 12 adopters are starting to report problems with their devices. We will first focus on the vanilla iPhone 12 and 12 Pro, which were the first to become widely available for purchase. The issue is related to the Messages app, as some of its users are reporting that they aren’t seeing SMS messages from friends. They also report missing test messages in group chats, and they claim the device isn’t giving any sort of notification when receiving new messages.
We can’t tell for sure if this issue is only related to the iPhone 12 models or if it may be because of the latest iOS 14.1 and iOS 14.2 versions. Here are some of the complaints: “But I just upgraded to an iPhone 12 (coming from an iPhone 11 Max Pro), and I am in a group message with my kids. One of my kids is an Android user. Last night he came up to me and asked me why I didn’t reply to his two text messages he sent to the group. I checked my iPhone, and I didn’t receive any text messages from him in the group chat. He then showed me his phone, and sure enough, he had sent them to the group. “I’m having the exact same problem. It seems I’m having issues in group threads only when it has android users. I’ve been so confused in our messages the last few days. None of our conversations make sense. My friends and I just tested with iMessage and it doesn’t seem to have any problems with just Apple users. I reported the bug to Apple. I just noticed this after upgrading to an iPhone 12 Pro from iPhone XS. Running iOS 14.1 on Verizon. I deleted every single text message on my phone and rebooted, turned iMessage off and back on. Hoping this helps.”
The second issue bugging the latest iPhone 12 lineup focuses on the iPhone 12 mini, as some of its users are reporting Lock Screen sensitivity issues since they received their devices. This problem usually happens when users are swiping up from the bottom of the Lock Screen or when pressing buttons on the Lock Screen. The display doesn’t recognize the press or the swipe up to unlock when users use their thumbs, but it seems to be more responsive when using other fingers.
Some users believe that this last issue may be caused by a conductivity or grounding issue since the problem seems to go away when the device is plugged to a wall charger or when users aren’t using a case, which puts them in direct contact with the phone’s frame. Whatever the case, we believe that Apple will soon address these issues.
Apple is reportedly facing a shortage of power chips and LiDAR components in its iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro. Increasing demand for silicon across a range of products and supply-chain disruptions from COVID-19 are likely the main causes of the shortage. It is being said that the demand for iPhone 12 Pro, in particular, has been higher than expected. And, Apple is tipped to be reallocating components from iPad models to the iPhone 12 Pro.
The latest development comes from two sources of Nikkei Asia, which reports that the Cupertino giant has been hit by supply constraints for some components, such as power chips and LiDAR components used for depth-sensing imaging functions. It goes on to add that Apple is relocating some components intended for iPads to the iPhone 12 Pro.
“That has affected around 2 million units in overall iPad production compared with its previous production plan for this year,” one of the sources said.
Moreover, Apple has asked suppliers to prepare more than 20 million units of iPhone 11, iPhone SE, and iPhone XR to fill “empty spaces on shelves.” These will be prepared from October through the year-end for the holiday shopping season and early next year. The report claims that the amount is more than a quarter of the orders Apple placed for the new iPhone 12 series this year.
Further, the iPhone 11, iPhone SE and iPhone XR handsets assembled after October will not come with a charger or wired earphones. It is said that the orders for iPhone 11 and the affordable iPhone SE are each close to around 10 million units, which are “better than expected.”
On the other hand, the 2019 flagships, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max have reached their end of product life and will no longer be produced. “The momentum for the iPhone 11 is surprisingly strong and keeps going. But that’s not the case for Pro and Pro Max,” an executive-level source told Nikkei.
Apple is launching four iPhone 12 models this year, namely: iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max. While the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro are now available for purchase, the iPhone mini and iPhone 12 Pro Max will be available on November 13. Their pre-orders start on November 6. However, before purchasing any of the new iPhones, you must be wondering “What iPhone 12 storage do I need?” Worry not, we are here to help you decide by breaking down the fine details that you need to know before buying the new iPhone.
iPhone 12 storage: What variants does the lineup have?
The new iPhones come in three storage variants each. While the iPhone 12 series consists of 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage options, the iPhone 12 Pro lineup starts at 128GB, and goes up to 512GB with a 256 gigs model in the middle. Let’s break down the price per gigabyte to get a better sense of what you are paying for.
iPhone 12 series: Price per gigabyte
iPhone12mini
iPhone12
64GB – $699 / $10.92 per gigabyte 128GB – $749 / $5.85 per gigabyte 256GB – $849 / $3.32 per gigabyte
64GB – $799 / $12.48 per gigabyte 128GB – $849 / $6.63 per gigabyte 256GB – $949 / $3.71 per gigabyte
iPhone 12 Pro series: Price per gigabyte
iPhone12Pro
iPhone12ProMax
128GB – $999 / $7.80 per gigabyte 256GB – $1,099 / $4.29 per gigabyte 512GB – $1,299 / $2.54 per gigabyte
128GB – $1,099 / $8.59 per gigabyte 256GB – $1,199 / $7.80 per gigabyte 512GB – $1,399 / $2.73 per gigabyte
As you can see from the tables above, the 256GB variant is the most value for money option for the four phones. However, you might not want to spend above $850 on any of the iPhone 12 models, and personally speaking, 256GB might also be too much for some of you. Separately, if you are in the market for the most affordable new iPhone, 64GB iPhone 12 mini is the way to go, but it might now be the best bang for your buck. This is where iCloud comes into play.
As for the iPhone 12 Pro series, it starts at 128 gigs, which should be sufficient for the average user. However, it might not be enough for some power users. Plus, these smartphones include extra camera prowess, especially the iPhone 12 Pro Max, so you might want to get the 256GB variant at least. But you might not have the extra $100+ to spend on doubling the storage, and that’s where the Apple iCloud comes into play.
Do you use a lot of third-party apps?
Before making a purchase decision, you must ask yourself if you’ll be storing a substantial amount of apps and games on the phone. With millions of apps and games available on the App Store, you might want to experience a few to make the most of your new iPhone 12.
While most apps are small in size, some games tend to go over 1GB of space, and if you are purchasing a new iPhone 12 to play games on it, 64GB is definitely out of consideration. I suggest you go with at least 128GB of storage for this kind of usage. However, if you want to download without worrying then go for 256GB or even 512GB if that’s what you need.
Will you take advantage of the powerful cameras?
The new iPhone 12 lineup sports a dual rear camera setup, while the iPhone 12 Pro series come equipped with three cameras on the back alongside a LiDAR sensor. The iPhone 12 Pro can do HDR video with Dolby Vision up to 60fps, 4K video recording at 24/30/60fps, Slo-mo videos at 1080p at 240fps, Night Mode time-lapse, and more.
Now, it’s up to your usage. If you don’t plan on shooting a lot of 4K videos and clicking a few pictures, you can go with the 64GB model. But if you plan on clicking a lot of pictures including portraits, you better spend your money on the 128GB variant. However, if you plan on using the cameras for clicking a lot of photos and some videos, go with the 256GB version.
If you are primarily purchasing the iPhone 12 Pro or iPhone 12 Pro Max to take 4K videos or make a lot of content, it is advisable to purchase the 512GB model.
Stream or store content?
The new iPhones feature a beautiful display. From the 5.4-inch iPhone 12 mini to the 6.7-inch iPhone 12 Pro Max, all four devices can view videos in HDR and are suitable to play audio files including podcasts, music, audiobooks, and more. If you are someone who consumes a lot of media, you must decide if you’ll be streaming content or storing it locally on your phone.
If you always stream content and don’t plan on downloading anything, you should be fine with 64GB on the iPhone 12 series. But if you have some video and audio files downloaded, then you better go with the 128GB variant. However, if you think you’ll be constantly downloading content on your device, you must spend your money on the 256GB or 512GB model, depending on the kind of media you’ll be consuming.
Is iCloud the way to go?
With the purchase of a new iPhone 12, you’ll also get 5GB of iCloud storage for free. But let’s face it, it’s 2020, and 5GB is going to be insufficient. Hence, you might want to spend a bit more on the Apple iCloud serve, especially if you want to backup and sync data between your devices. You can store photos, videos, contacts, app data, calendar, mail, notes, and reminders on iCloud. Additionally, it’s not just for your iPhone. You can backup data from your iPad, macOS as well as the Apple Watch.
Apple iCloud storage tiers:
Free: 5GB of storage
$0.99/month: 50GB of storage
$2.99/month: 200GB of storage
$9.99/month: 2TB of storage
You should be fine with 5 gigs if you don’t use many iCloud features, or if you are already paying for another cloud service like Google Driver or Dropbox. However, this option might not be viable in the long run, and you’ll need to purchase an iCloud subscription.
If you want to save a few documents in iCloud Drive, and backup some phones and videos to iCloud Photo Library, 50GB is enough for you. But if you have a substantial amount of photos and videos, you might want to opt for the 200 gigs plan. Moreover, you can sync the data across all your Apple devices.
If you keep your new iPhone 12 for 2 years and purchase the 200GB iCloud plan, you’ll end up paying approximately $71 in 24 months, which is less than spending $100 more on doubling the storage of your iPhone. However, if you have multiple Apple devices, and all of them need a backup, get the 2TB plan.
Who should get the 64GB iPhone 12 series?
If you are heavily invested in the iCloud environment, and you would just store a few files and documents, stream most of the content, not shoot a lot of 4K content, and have limited third-party apps, 64GB should be enough for you. While it would be the worst value for money on paper, it might just be enough for you.
The iPhone 12 mini is smaller and lighter than the iPhone 12. It weighs just 133 grams, and Apple is calling it the smallest and lightest 5G-ready phone out there.
If you are going to use your phone with mixed usage of streaming content and storing files including some 4K content shot on iPhone, 128GB should be enough for you. It is the middle ground, and I suggest you spend $2.99 per month on iCloud storage rather than spending more than $99 on doubling the storage.
The iPhone 12 features a 6.1-inch OLED display with the Super Retina XDR technology and a resolution of 2532×1170 pixels alongside packing new camera features.
The 256GB variant is especially recommended for the iPhone 12 Pro Max since it sports the most advanced cameras in the lineup. If you are purchasing the Pro Max, you are likely to use a lot of its camera prowess to shoot 4K content and click a substantial amount of images. It should be enough if you stream content and have limited third-party apps on your phone.
The iPhone 12 Pro is smaller variant of the iPhone 11 Pro Max. It gets a slew of camera updates, and support for Apple Pro RAW that offers benefits of multi-frame processing and combines them with a raw format.
Who should purchase the 512GB iPhone 12 Pro or iPhone 12 Pro Max?
The 512 GB iPhone storage is recommended for power users who want as much space on their phones as possible. With this variant, you’ll have the option to store a lot of content offline, shoot 4K videos, click a lot of photos, and make use of the most advanced camera setup on an iPhone. Moreover, this is the best bang for the buck!
The iPhone 12 Pro comes with a host of new features including a bigger display, better cameras with support for Apple Pro RAW alongside a LiDAR Scanner. It is the first camera smartphone with iPhone 12 Pro that can record Dolby Vision HDR.
After reading this, we hope you’ve now decided which variant suites your needs. We have done our best to break it down for you, but in the end it comes down to what your requirement is. If you go Pro, you will be getting 128 gigs in the base variant itself. This means, iPhone 12 Pro users will have double the storage in the base variant. However, spend more and get the 256GB model or even the 512GB version if you need it.
iPhone 12 Pro pre-orders went live a few days ago, alongside the vanilla iPhone 12. And if you’ve already pre-ordered the Pro sibling, you will need a protective case to shield your $999+ iPhone 12 Pro from any physical damage.
Yes, the iPhone 12 Pro uses ceramic glass on the front, which as per Apple, offers 4x better drop resistance. And yes, the IP68-certified phone is claimed to survive submersion in up to 6 meters of water for a maximum span of 30 minutes. Plus, Apple says that the iPhone 12 can handle accidental spills of your coffee or soda drink too. But, why take a chance?
Especially when replacing an iPhone 12 Pro’s screen will set you back by $279, while any other physical damage will vaporize a hefty sum of $599 from your bank account. Needless to say, better safe than sorry. And to save you the trouble of wandering in Amazon’s labyrinth of protective case recommendations, we’ve rounded up some of the best iPhone 12 Pro cases for you. Check out this handy list:
The Supcase Unicorn Beetle Style Case is made out of scratch-resistant polycarbonate, and it is quite thin and minimalist. The TPU guards on the side can handle their fair share of bumps and accidental drops, while the raised edges on both faces ensure that the iPhone 12 Pro’s rear and front glass panels are protected from scratches in the long run.
The Tendlin Carbon Fiber Texture series case for the iPhone 12 Pro employs a blend of premium materials such as natural wood veneer, soft-touch synthetic leather and high-quality Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) with carbon fiber finish. It has a shock-absorbent lining, supports wireless charging and looks quite elegant.
This stylish case from Caseology blends strength and style quotient. It has a military-grade build that has been drop-test certified and features dual-layered bumpers to provide extra protection against accidental falls. This wireless charging compatible case features a unique 3D pattern on the back and promises a great in-hand feel.
If your top priority is a case that doesn’t hide the looks of your shiny new iPhone 12 Pro without comprising on its protection, the ESR Clear case might just be the perfect option. This military-grade case has shock-absorbent corners and with raised edges to protect the camera hardware and display. And yes, it is wireless charging-ready.
SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle Pro is for folks who desire nothing but the sturdiest protective solution for their iPhone 12 Pro. Made out of shock-absorbing TPU and drop-resistant materials, this case has been tested and verified to handle drops from a height of up to 20 meters. It has texturized grip, raised edges, built-in screen protector, and a useful kickstand too.
If you’re looking for something inspired by stones and crystals, the i-Blason Cosmo Series Case is for you. It comes in a choice of marble, amethyst and ocean textures. The case is made out of flexible TPU, is drop-tested for a height of 10 feet, and has raised edges on both sides. It also has a screen protector and supports wireless charging too.
Spigen’s tough armor case uses a new foam technology to offer an extra layer of shock resistance, thanks to its Air Cushion design. The MIL-STD 810G certified case is made from a combination of TPU and polycarbonate, and also features a reinforced kickstand. It is surprisingly thin and supports wireless charging as well.
Made out of sturdy polycarbonate, the Mateprox case also uses Air Cushion technology for improved shock-resistance. But this case should primarily be on your radar for its hydrodipped design. However, you can choose from a variety of other styles as well such as black stone, hexagon pattern, marble, and pink rock to name a few.
Now, this one offers the best of both worlds. Made out of soft-touch silicone, the Caseology Nano Pop Silicone offers a comfortable grip and is quite minimalist too. It also has a layer of silicone with a soft lining on the inside for added protection. It comes in four stylish dual-tone color options and it supports wireless charging as well.
If you loved the design of fabric cases offered by Google for its Pixel smartphones and those from Samsung, the Mofi Thick Fabric Case will be right up your alley. This washable case is made out of flexible TPU, the sides use soft silicone for an extra comfortable grip, while the rear panel has a fabric finish. It comes in a choice of four cool color options.
Looking for a protective case that is thin, lightweight and adequately durable? The Spigen Thin Fit Case is where you should put your money. Spigen says this case fits like a glove on your phone, but still offers a good degree of scratch resistance. The stealthy design is appealing, and you don’t have to worry about wireless charging either.
On the lookout for something versatile, but not necessarily bulky? The ANSIWEE Metal Ring Case is the right choice for you. This clear TPU case has reinforced corners for extra protection, and has a 360-degree rotatable ring holder kickstand at the back. Plus, the disc-shaped holder can easily be attached to a magnetic car mount.
As for our personal pick, we’re inclined towards the Caseology Nano Pop Silicone case for the iPhone 12 Pro. It not only showcases the signature flat sides of the iPhone 12 Pro perfectly, but it is also quite thin as well. The soft-touch silicone material will ensure a comfortable in-hand feel, and it also doesn’t pose any hindrance to wireless charging. Plus, the subtle dual-tone design is just icing on the cake.
If your primary concern is durability, the SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle Pro case is the one you should go for. Drop-tested from a height of 20 feet, this case employs sturdy TPU and drop-resistant materials, has a nifty kickstand built-in, rocks raised edges, and even has a built-in screen protector. It comes in a choice of four colors and also doesn’t miss out on support for wireless charging. Essentially, your iPhone 12 Pro will be well-protected, and its orange colorway doesn’t look half bad either.
Google Pixel 4a, iPads and more devices are on sale today
The official news today begin with deals as per usual, cause even installment plans actually make sense right now. For example the Google Pixel 4a is currently available for a $5 a month on Verizon. Of course there’s specific restrictions but, you’ll be getting an Unlimited Plan and you’ll end up paying $128 for the 128GB variant. I know international kids, don’t laugh about how expensive plans are in the US. Moving on to B&H, the LG G8 ThinQ is currently $450 off, leaving it at $500 from it’s original price tag. Moving on to Amazon, we have your daily dose of Apple deals, for example the latest 11in iPad Pro is $50 off, leaving the 128GB of storage variant for $750. The Apple Watch Series 5 is also $79 off, leaving the 44mm variant for $350. We have more deals on Apple products, Razer peripherals. Jabra earbuds and more in the links in the description.
Insta360 ONE X2 launches as the ultimate personal 360-degree camera
Now let’s move on to official news, and particularly for one of the companies that continues to have my favorite approach to action cams and that keeps 360 degree video alive. Insta360 just launched their new One X2. This is a pocket camera designed to replace a multi-cam setup to give you ultra wide video, panoramas, and of course, 360 degree video. It brings several changes from the original model, like a new 1630 mAh battery which let’s you shoot for up to 80 minutes, a new HD touch screen to preview your shot and that also includes 360 degree video, It’s also water resistant up to 33 feet with no case and it brings four microphones. The camera also brings improved performance, and their new AI tech let’s you change focus and other things while editing it, which you couldn’t do before. It’s currently available for $430 in Adorama and B&H. Really the only thing I’m curious about is if you still need to use their software to be able to edit their videos, cause that’s the only thing I still struggle with.
AMD unleashes Radeon RX 6000 series GPUs based on RDNA 2 architecture
And would you look at that, the cool part about TechTober is that official news actually superseed the typical rumor mill. AMD just unveiled three new GPUs for their RX 6000 series. Basically these 3 graphic cards bring RDNA 2 architecture and they undercut Nvidia’s RTX 30 series in price tag and manage to still bring somewhat of a comparable performance as well as lower power consumption. For context, this is the same architecture powering the PS5 and the Xbox Series X. This new lineup starts at $579 with the RX 68000 which competes with the $1199 RTX 2080 Ti which is from last generation. Next up, you get the Rx 6800 XT which directly competes with the Nvidia RTX 3080, offering you 4K and 1440p gaming with 16GB of GDDR6 memory for $649. Finally, you get the RX 6900 XT flagship which is aimed at 8K gamers, and it’ll set you back at $999. We got more technical details in the description but with these prices, why would the average consumer go for the Nvidia cards? Of course, they’re still crazy powerful but, AMD’s prices just make more sense.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 2 could still arrive in the first half of 2021
Now let’s move the spotlight over to Samsung, for those of you that thought we weren’t gonna cover leaks today. Ross Young is already talking about the Galaxy Z Flip 2. According to his latest tweet, he claims that the Z Flip 2 won’t be launched with the Galaxy S21 but it will be launched in the Spring and he is impressed with the upgrades we’re getting. If you think about it, this makes a lot of sense because all of the rumors hint to the Galaxy S launching way earlier, either late January or February, so a later Spring launch for the Z Flip would help Samsung stay in the spotlight. We’re expecting this Z Flip 2, to bring both 4G and 5G connectivity but other than that, we don’t have a lot of information on this Z Flip 2, other than these upgrades Ross Young is talking about, which he doesn’t really mention. I know I want a larger outer display but let us know what you guys would like to see to care about this phone.
Apple could be working on its own search engine to replace Google
Now let’s flip on over to the boring politics section, and what companies are doing about it. If you remember, about a week ago we covered how Google was being sued and one of the reasons was, the deal they have with Apple to be their exclusive search engine. Well, as of now, Google reportedly pays $10-12B to be Apple’s main search provider but, thanks to this lawsuit, it may end. And now a new report claims that Cupertino is silently working on a new Search Engine to replace Google in case their deal is blocked. It’s still unclear whether this engine will be a full-blown website like Google, or just an enhanced Spotlight Search, which is already linking websites directly, bypassing Google. These payments from Google reportedly make around 20% of Apple’s revenue which is, a huge deal. Apple will most likely try to build this new solution around privacy so, let’s see what we end up getting cause if Siri is going to be the backbone of this service, who knows if it’ll actually work out.
Story of the day:
iPhone 12 Pro’s Ceramic Shield doesn’t help against scratches
Apple iPhone 12 series supports reverse wireless charging, but it’s hidden: FCC filing
And finally the hottest news today have to do with Apple, and the things they don’t tell you until they’re discovered in teardowns. And yes, it happened, the iPhone 12 Pro just went through Zack’s JerryRigEverything’s Durability test, revealing some stuff that we were waiting to confirm. If you follow me on Twitter, and you definitely should, you probably saw that I scratched my 12 Pro within the first 5 minutes after unboxing it because I stacked the phones together and it obviously made me question the Ceramic Shield. Well, on Zack’s teardown he confirmed that even with the new technology it still scratches at a level 6 with deeper grooves at level 7, however he did say that the level 6 scratches aren’t as noticeable when compared to other glass panels. And he also said that thanks to the build and the ceramic shield this phone should be more drop resistant, which other channels have confirmed. His video will be linked in the description but, let’s move on to other things we didn’t know about the iPhone 12. According to a new FCC filing, the iPhone 12 has a “dormant” reverse wireless charging feature through MagSafe at 360kHz, “perhaps for an external Apple accessory in the future”. A couple of days ago we covered how we should be getting new AirPods soon so, maybe Apple is waiting until they release those for them to enable the feature and advertise it, and since the iPhone has magnets, it might actually make sense
