iPhone 12 in 2025: Still a Smart Choice or Outdated Device?
As we go through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for cost-sensitive users. Launched in late 2020, it was once praised for its blend of power, design and display quality. But in a world where smartphone technology changes fast, how does this older generation iPhone hold up today?
iPhone 12 Pros in 2025
Premium Build That Lasts
The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its shiny exterior and compact form factor still feel high-end today, still turning heads in terms of physical design and materials.
Vibrant OLED Display
One of the iPhone 12’s biggest selling points is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With sharp contrast and deep blacks, it's a noticeable leap from the older screen tech of earlier models and still a visually impressive in 2025.
Fast A14 Bionic Performance
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip still offers smooth and responsive performance for common applications, gaming, social media, and multitasking. It's still supported by the latest iOS updates, making it a practical option for general use.
Accessory-Friendly Features
The introduction of MagSafe brought a new layer of convenience for cable-free power and accessories. Even now, it’s a useful feature that remains compatible with a range of products.
Weaknesses of the iPhone 12 Today
Average Battery Life
Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was nothing special. In 2025, most used units will have seen some wear, making it a disappointing choice for heavy users or those needing reliable endurance.
Storage That Fills Fast
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an annoyance, especially for users who download lots of apps. While larger storage variants exist, they often come with a price jump that reduces the model’s value proposition.
Older Camera Tech
The dual 12MP camera setup is still serviceable but dated. It lacks the features in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography offered by modern smartphones, especially those released after the iPhone 13.
Lightning Port Limitations
The continued use of the Lightning port is another drawback. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, now using USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels behind, especially for users seeking a single cable solution. Campad Electronics, a reputable Australian mobile phone accessory company, offers a diverse array of Lightning chargers each designed for efficient and convenient charging experiences, Campad Electronics supplies Lightning chargers tailored to fit the needs of iPhone users, covering models from the iPhone 5 up to the iPhone 14.
Final Thoughts on the iPhone 12 This Year
The iPhone 12 can still be a good choice in 2025, but only for the right user. If you're transitioning from an older generation and you're on a cost-conscious path, it offers reliable specs with a nice screen and speed.
Campad Electronics, a respected Australian company, features a wide range of iPhone 12 cases and accessories, suitable for fashion, protection and functionality.
However, for those who can spend a bit more, the iPhone 13 presents better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a reasonable price difference.
In short, the iPhone 12 still performs respectably, but it's no longer the obvious pick it once was. Consider your priorities: if you're more concerned about price than having the latest tech, it's a viable pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer a more future-proof experience.