Apple’s Hi, Speed Event: iPhone 12 and HomePod mini
Apple has announced four iPhone 12 models with 5G and MagSafe, together with the compact HomePod mini smart speaker for the home.
Apple’s second event in a month has delivered the iPhone 12 family and HomePod mini. The iPhones move to a flatter design, add 5G and introduce a new magnetic charging and accessory system called MagSafe.
Four iPhone 12 models
The range now includes the 5.4-inch iPhone 12 mini, 6.1-inch iPhone 12, 6.1-inch iPhone 12 Pro and 6.7-inch iPhone 12 Pro Max. All four use OLED displays and the A14 Bionic chip, bringing the core display and performance experience closer across the range.
The standard models have two rear cameras. The Pro models add a telephoto camera, stainless-steel finish and LiDAR scanner, while the Pro Max receives the largest sensor and strongest camera system.
5G arrives on the iPhone
Every iPhone 12 model supports 5G. The benefit will depend on local coverage, the mobile plan and network conditions. For many Australian users, improved 4G performance and the phone’s other changes may be more noticeable at first.
Apple has added a Smart Data mode that can move between 5G and LTE to balance speed and battery use.
MagSafe for charging and accessories
MagSafe uses magnets around the wireless charging coil to align compatible chargers and attach accessories such as wallets and cases. It should make wireless charging less fussy, but it also starts a new accessory system. Existing Qi chargers still work, although they will not gain the magnetic alignment.
HomePod mini
HomePod mini is a much smaller smart speaker built around Siri and Apple’s services. It supports multi-room audio, stereo pairing, Handoff from an iPhone and a new Intercom feature for sending voice messages around a household.
It can also act as a home hub for compatible smart-home accessories. The important limitation is that it works best inside Apple’s ecosystem, so households that use several platforms should check service support first.
Availability is split across the range
The iPhone 12 and 12 Pro will arrive first, followed by the iPhone 12 mini and 12 Pro Max in November. HomePod mini is also due in November. Anyone upgrading should check case sizes, charging accessories and backup readiness before the new phone arrives.
The iPhone 12 is the sensible default for most buyers. The mini is for people who want a smaller phone, while the Pro models mainly justify themselves through camera features, materials and screen size.
