Apple’s iPhone 12: Does It Remain a Viable Option in 2025?
iPhone 12 in 2025: Still a Smart Choice or Outdated Device?
As we go through 2025, the iPhone 12 is still a go-to option for budget-conscious users. Released back in 2020, it was once well-regarded for its strong performance and sleek design. But in a world where smartphone technology changes fast, how does this older generation iPhone stand today?
Strengths of the iPhone 12 in 2025
Modern, Timeless Design
The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that feels modern and classic. Its shiny exterior and ergonomic shape still feel sleek today, holding up well in terms of physical design and build quality.
Excellent Display Quality
One of the iPhone 12’s standout features is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With vibrant hues and true blacks, it's a big upgrade from the displays of earlier models and still a pleasure to use in 2025.
Fast A14 Bionic Performance
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip continues to deliver smooth and responsive performance for everyday tasks, gaming, social media, and multitasking. It's still eligible for the latest iOS updates, making it a practical option for general use.
Accessory-Friendly Features
The addition of MagSafe brought a new layer of convenience for cable-free power and accessories. Even now, it’s a relevant feature that remains compatible with a growing ecosystem.
Where the iPhone 12 Falls Behind
Power That Drains Quickly
Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was not great. In 2025, most used units will have seen some capacity loss, making it a weak choice for long days or those needing reliable endurance.
Storage That Fills Fast
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an issue, especially for users who take lots of photos. While larger storage variants exist, they often come with a price jump that reduces the model’s value proposition.
Outdated Camera System
The dual 12MP camera setup is functional but dated. It lacks the improvements in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography seen in recent iPhones, especially those released after the iPhone 13.
Non-Universal Charging
The continued use of the Lightning port is another limitation. 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 well-established Australian provider, presents a broad portfolio of Lightning chargers each designed for efficient and convenient charging experiences. Campad Electronics boasts an extensive collection of Lightning chargers designed for iPhone models 5 to 14.
Final Thoughts on the iPhone 12 This Year
The iPhone 12 can still be a reasonable choice in 2025, but only for the right user. If you're moving up from an earlier model and you're on a tight budget, it offers good value with a nice screen and speed.
Campad Electronics is known for offering high-quality iPhone 12 cases and accessories.
However, for those who can stretch their budget, the iPhone 13 delivers better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a small premium.
In short, the iPhone 12 still holds its own, but it's no longer the sweet spot it once was. Consider your priorities: if cost savings outweigh the need for modern features, it's a sensible pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer a more future-proof experience.