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The best features of the iPhone 12

Apple’s iPhone 12 expected to be late due to pandemic
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It’s been a long time coming, but Apple has finally announced the iPhone 12. It has a lot in common with previous models, including the 6.1-inch display size it shares with the iPhone 11 and iPhone XR. But, it also has plenty of new features to get excited about.

Here are some of the best features of the iPhone 12.

FaceTime Upgrade

The iPhone 12 models have upgraded to FaceTime HD, so your video calls can be in 1080p while on WiFi or 5G networks. This means sharper, clearer FaceTiming — something we’re all relying on to stay in touch during pandemic restrictions.

Better Camera

The iPhone 12 has a 12-megapixel f/1.6 main camera, which is the fastest aperture in any iPhone to date, and a 12MP ultrawide. Apple says low-light performance has improved, and the front camera is gaining Night Mode too.

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Improved Performance And Efficiency

Apple’s latest iPhone is powered by the company’s new A14 Bionic processor, the first smartphone chip built on a 5nm process. What this means for users is improved performance and efficiency. Apple claims it’s the fastest chip ever in a smartphone, “up to 50% faster” than the leading chips in Android smartphones, per The Verge.

What’s more, the whole range of iPhone products in 2020 will be 5G-ready (a first for Apple, although not for Android). This will allow users to enjoy super-fast download and browsing speeds on their iPhones.

OLED Screen

The iPhone 12 moves from an LCD screen to OLED (organic light-emitting diodes) for the first time. OLED screens are brighter, more efficient, thinner and feature better refresh rates and contrast than LCDs. When you look at an OLED phone screen, colors pop and dark details are more clearly defined, according to Consumer Reports.

Increased Durability

While the rear of the phone is made of glass, Apple points out that the iPhone 12 is tougher than previous versions. This is due to a new technology on the front called Ceramic Shield, which makes the screen a lot more drop-proof. Corning Inc., the company that makes Ceramic Shield, said it’s a new material, with nano-ceramic crystals embedded in the glass. This results in a material that looks like glass but has strength properties more similar to ceramics, reports TechRadar.

New Colors

The iPhone 12 is available in black, white, green, blue and Product (RED), a licensed color that helps raise money for the company (RED). (RED) partners with the private sector to raise awareness and funds to help eliminate HIV/AIDS in several African countries. It is also providing support for the global COVID-19 response.

Four Different Models

The iPhone 12 Mini, the smallest, lightest and thinnest 5G phone, is perfect for anyone who wants all the features of the iPhone 12 — but in more a pocket-sized package. It comes in the same colors as the regular iPhone 12. TheiPhone 12 will also be available in Pro and Pro Max models, which come in different color options (gold, silver, graphite, pacific blue) and have additional features, especially in terms of storage space and the camera. The Pro Max has a larger screen size as well.

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Preorders for the iPhone 12 and the iPhone Pro have already started. They officially go on sale on Oct. 23 with a starting price of $799 and $999, respectively. Preorders for the iPhone 12 Mini and the iPhone Pro Max start Nov. 6. These models start shipping November 13 at a starting price of $699 and $1,099, respectively. To purchase, open the Apple Store app, choose your model, go through the paperwork, and check out.

Will you be buying a new iPhone this year?

This story originally appeared on Simplemost. Check out Simplemost for additional stories.