What to Expect From the iPhone 12 

After releasing the iPhone XR and iPhone 11 in 2018 and 2019 — which went on to become the two most-shipped smartphones in the world last year — Apple is continuing its quest to release better, faster devices. Though early reports slated the release of the iPhone 12 to hit sometime in September, production delays pushed the release back to October 2020 for the standard iPhone 12. It's probably safe to assume that all versions of the iPhone 12 will be released around the same time, as was the case for Apple's iPhone 11 line, but there is no confirmation either way.

• What We Know 
  
• What We Can Guess
  
• Performance & Display
  
• iOS 14 Features 
  
• Camera & Video
  
• New & Returning Features 
  
• Battery Life 
  
• Design & Security
  
• Apple's iPhone 12 Is a Reason to Get Excited 
  
• Ready to Upgrade? ecoATM Can Help.
  

With the new phone's anticipated release only weeks away, there are dozens of suspected leaks, rumors and educated guesses about what Apple's 2020 variation could look and perform like. No charging adapter? Brand new color lineups? Will there be two or three cameras? And what exactly is an A14 Bionic processing chip? Read on to learn more about these suspicions — and more — as we dive into everything we know about the upcoming iPhone 12. 

What We Know 

Though Apple has confirmed little about the iPhone 12, we do know a few things to be fact: 

• There will be a performance upgrade: Though specifics vary between insiders, everyone agrees that all signs point to a major performance and memory upgrade for the new iPhone 12 line.
  
• There are some changes to the design: Expect something slightly different for the iPhone 12 design. Predictive prototypes all show a smaller notch on the top of the new iPhone, and phones are anticipated to have a metallic, flat-edged appearance that will likely be available in several new color options, as well as classic neutrals.
  
• We will enjoy the same Apple integration: Regardless of performance and design changes, we don't need confirmation to anticipate the same Apple integration and standard iOS features, like the ability to FaceTime with friends and family, unbelievable camera quality and access to Apple Pay. You will also be able to pair your device with Apple products, like AirPods and the Apple Watch. 
  
• Siri will be as helpful as ever: Though Siri will definitely see some redesign and improved performance with iOS 14, users can expect the same reliability from their digital assistants.

According to many reports, we can also expect a price increase compared to previous iPhone releases, likely due to the new 5G-enabling components — which require significant changes to the device's motherboard design — and ultra-fast A14 Bionic processing.

There is no definite cost listed yet, but one popular pricing model prediction for brand new devices include: 

• iPhone 12: For the 128GB variation, expect to pay about $649, while the 256GB variation will sit around $749. 
  
• iPhone 12 Max: The iPhone 12 Max with 128GB of storage space will likely cost $749, while the 256GB configuration will cost $849. 
  
• iPhone 12 Pro: The iPhone 12 Pro with 128GB of storage space will cost around $999, while the 256GB and 512GB versions will cost approximately $1,099 and $1,299. 
  
• iPhone 12 Pro Max: As the top-tier selection, the iPhone 12 Pro Max will also be the largest investment. The 128GB variation is predicted to cost $1,099, while the 256GB device will cost $1,119. The largest storage option available, 512GB, will cost around $1,399. 
  

There is no word yet on whether Apple plans to expand the iPhone 12 line with LTE versions, but if so, they will likely cost less than the above variations. 

What We Can Guess 

With the basic iOS and Apple features in mind, what else can we expect from the new lineup? Rumors suggest changes to nearly every part of the device — some minor and some more significant — including performance and display, camera and video capabilities, battery life, design and security. Experts also conclude users will have a choice between four different variations, including the iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Max, iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max. Though not confirmed, these are the names experts predict based on the iPhone 11's available versions. 

Performance & Display 

Some of the biggest changes to the iPhone 12 will come from excelled performance and display, including some redesign to the home screen, usability updates, lightning-fast 5G service and an overall CPU and GPU boost. Here's what we anticipate for each variation of Apple's next release: 

•  A14 Bionic processor: One of the most anticipated features of the iPhone 12 is the addition of the A14 Bionic processor chip, which is rumored to deliver anywhere from a 15% to 40% CPU boost and 30% to 40% efficiency GPU boost. The performance boost will be available for all variations of the iPhone 12. 
  
• OLED display: Most of the entry-level iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Max models will ship with OLED BOE, while the Pro and Pro Max will come with high-definition XDR OLED display. This is a shift from previous iPhones, which relied on LCD technology instead. 
  
• RAM and storage: The iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Max will likely have 4GB of RAM, while the 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max will have 6GB. As far as storage is concerned, it's safe to expect a choice between 64GB, 128GB and 256GB for the first two models and 128GB, 256GB and 512GB for the latter two. This translates to even more speed in the two top tier models, though each variation promises impressive operational speeds all around. 
  
• 5G capabilities: All models of the iPhone 12 will be compatible with 5G service, but the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Max will likely operate via Sub-6GHZ only, while the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max will also have mmWave, the fastest form of 5G available for smartphones. 
  
• Resolution and touch display: The entry-level iPhone 12 is said to have a resolution of 2340x1080, while the Max and Pro will likely sit around 2532x1170. The top-tier model, the Pro Max, is said to have a resolution of 2778x1824. Each device's display will likely feature Y-OCTA, an integrated touch display technology. 
  
• Faster Wi-Fi: The iPhone 12 may include 802.11ay capabilities, a type of fast Wi-Fi that allows for seamless integration with other smart devices. 
  

iOS 14 FEATURES

All 12 variations will operate via iOS 14, which will bring a redesigned home screen and updates to general usability.

• Widgets and the home screen• Calls and messaging• Travel and navigation• Travel and navigation• Smart home integration

iOS 14 Features 

All 12 variations will operate via iOS 14, which will bring a redesigned home screen and updates to general usability. Apple has only provided a preview of what's to come from their newest operating system, but they are a strong indication that the iPhone 12 will be more efficient and useful than ever before.

Some of the most significant improvements and changes you can expect to see with iOS 14 include: 

• Widgets and the home screen: The official preview indicates that home screen widgets will now show more information on the widget itself, without having to open the app each time. Enabling Smart Stack will allow your phone to organize your widgets based on which ones you use the most frequently and at which time during the day.
  
• Calls and messaging: In addition to a new home screen appearance, phone calls are now integrated into a compact design. You will also be able to pin messages and conversations, directly tag people in messages and respond to individual messages via inline replies in group chats. 
  
• Travel and navigation: If you use your iPhone for frequent travel and navigation, iOS 14 promises some significant Maps upgrades, including the ability to get cycling directions that include elevation, busy streets and steep hills so you can plan your bicycling trip with more insight. Electric vehicle owners will love the addition of electric vehicle routing, which will let you configure your navigation path around the availability of electric charging stations. Another travel-related perk is the addition of car keys to CarPlay, which gives you the power to unlock and start your car directly from your device. You'll even be able to share these "digital keys" with others via iMessage. 
  
• Siri improvements and redesign: Siri will get some upgrades as well. According to Apple, the digital assistant is constantly growing and learning and knows 20 times more than it did three years ago. See these improvements for yourself with the ability to receive help for broader questions. The new operating system will also let you send audio messages via Siri, a feature that is both convenient and safe. 
  
• Smart home integration: We live in an increasingly connected world, including our homes. If you own smart devices, iOS 14 will give you even more power over your house with suggested automation and self-prioritizing home status information on your screen. Your video doorbells will now identify people you have tagged in your photos app, so you can receive push alerts the next time your mother-in-law stops by for a surprise visit or your best friend wants to hang out. Establish Activity Zones to alert you when there is any movement in specific areas around your home. You can also use adaptive lighting to change the color temperature of your home lighting.
  

Camera & Video 

When it comes to choosing a new cell phone, camera quality and video recording capabilities have become nearly as important as battery life and usability. In 2017, smartphone users took nearly 1.2 trillion pictures with their phones. iPhone loyalists have always loved Apple's crisp, vivid images and smooth video clips. The iPhone 12 will be no exception, though there will be some slight variations among each of the newly released models.

For the base model and the iPhone 12 Max, expect two rear cameras, while the iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max will have three with a LiDAR sensor. LiDAR enables phones to focus better and more clearly, leading to superior photos, particularly in portrait mode. Compared to previous six-lens releases, expect a seven-part camera lens for the main iPhone 12 camera, which will minimize picture distortion. Users will also enjoy a wide-angle and telephoto lens on the 12 Pro models. Built-in Sensor-Shift will help stabilize your photos by detecting when your phone moves and adjusting the lens in the opposite direction. For video recording, the Pro and Pro Max will shoot in 4K at 120 or 240 fps.

For even better photos, experts suggest the iPhone 12 Pro will perform better than ever in low-light conditions, thanks to Smart HDR, and will have a 3x optical zoom — a step up from the iPhone 11. 

New & Returning Features 

While faster-than-ever 5G and the A14 Bionic processor are the two most significant changes to the upcoming iPhone, they aren't the only ones. Some possible additional changes and improvements to be aware of include: 

• Improved Face ID: Expect some minor enhancements to the TrueDepth system, which would enable a more capable Face ID function, like a wider viewing angle. 
  
• No EarPods: None of the new iPhone 12 variations will ship with EarPods, a significant departure from previous smartphone releases. 
  
• Braided cabling: Some suggest users may receive a braided USB-C-to-lightning cable, rather than a standard cord. Braided cables are known for being more durable and flexible than their standard counterparts. 
  
• Bundle options: Users may soon see an opportunity to bundle Apple services, including Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple News+ and Apple Arcade, for a single monthly fee. There are also rumors of an Apple fitness subscription service with virtual classes and workouts that iPhone users may get to take advantage of on new devices. 
  

Battery Life 

Smartphone battery life is measured in milliampere-hours, known as the mAh rating. Assuming your smartphone uses a decent quality battery — which the iPhone 12 undoubtedly will — then the higher the mAh rating, the more battery power and battery space available. For the iPhone 12, users should expect a 2,227 mAh rating, with a 2,775 mAh for the Max and Pro and a 3,687 mAH rating for the Pro Max.

New releases are not expected to include a charging adapter. While this is a great way to reduce waste and may not be a significant concern for current iPhone users who already have a charging adapter, it is an additional expense worth noting for non-iPhone users looking to jump on the Apple bandwagon for the iPhone 12 release.

We also anticipate each iPhone 12 model to come with the standard lightning port, rather than a USB-C port, like we have seen with previous Apple phone releases. 

Design & Security

Smartphone features are for more than entertainment and fun iPhone text tricks — they can also keep you safe and secure your personal information with features like these:

•  Distraction-free driving: The Do Not Disturb feature is one of Apple's smartest and definitely worth exploring. By enabling this feature in your settings, you can prevent your phone from receiving calls or texts while you're driving and instead send the person a message letting them know you'll be in touch once you're no longer behind the wheel. 
  
•  Set up Self Destruct: By turning on the "erase data" setting in your Touch ID and Passcode section, you can enable a self-destruct mode that automatically erases all of your data after 10 failed attempts to unlock your device. Proceed with caution — if you're someone who struggles to remember log-in information, you should only use this feature if you are storing sensitive information on your phone. 
•  Fill out your Medical ID: Medical ID is a built-in Health app feature that lets you fill out potentially life-saving information, including your blood type, medications, emergency contact information and more. By allowing it to "show when locked," first-responders can access the information quickly if necessary. 
  
•  Hide pictures from albums: Keep your photos as private as possible by making them invisible in your albums. This means, when you hand your phone off to a friend, they won't accidentally swipe too far and see the rest of your photos. To hide a picture, open the album it's in, select the photo, touch the "share" button and tap "hide photo."

Apple's iPhone 12 Is a Reason to Get Excited 

Whether you're a lifelong Apple supporter or interested in trying something new, Apple's iPhone 12 lineup is a reason to get excited. With the release date just around the corner, more details are sure to leak — but based on expert predictions and things we already know, each variation of the iPhone 12 will have industry-leading specs and performance with the same timeless design users have come to love.

To summarize, iPhone 12 users can expect: 

•  Faster and more efficient performance and connectivity. 
  
•  Fast 5G compatibility, especially for the iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max. 
  
•  A sleek, flat-edge design with an edge-to-edge display. 
  
•  A few new color options, including a classic navy blue. 
  
•  No included EarPods or charging adapter. 
  
•  Super strong Gorilla Glass Victus protection and possible increased water protection.
  
•  Potential for improved features, like Face ID. 
  
•  Access to iOS 14, Apple's newest operating system, which promises several new features and improvements. 
  
•  Several cameras, with an additional lens configuration and a LiDAR sensor for top-quality photos.