
In the ever-changing world of smartphones, the Apple iPhone 12 has stood the test of time since its release in 2020. As we venture into 2025, the question on many Australian consumers’ minds is whether this model, which was once considered cutting-edge, is still worth investing in. With newer models now dominating the market, including the iPhone 14 and the recently released iPhone 15, it’s essential to ask if the Apple iPhone 12 can continue to meet the needs of today’s tech-savvy users.
For Australian buyers, it’s important to evaluate whether the iPhone 12 offers competitive features compared to newer models, especially when considering the price point and the performance it still delivers. With the ever-growing range of mobile options, particularly for those looking to save on costs while still getting a high-quality experience, the iPhone 12 offers a unique position in the market.
This blog will explore the current standing of the iPhone 12 in 2025. We will dive into its performance, compare it to newer models, discuss whether it’s still a wise investment, and give you the reasons why it might be an excellent option for Australian consumers. Additionally, we’ll look into how it measures up against key competitors and why Wise Market Australia offers an attractive option for purchasing this iconic device.
What Do Australian Consumers Seek in 2025?
When it comes to purchasing smartphones, Australian consumers have specific needs, and understanding these needs can help make the decision process easier. Over the years, smartphone users in Australia have become more discerning in terms of value, performance, and long-term usability. In 2025, most consumers want devices that offer the following:
- Reliability and Longevity: Australians are increasingly looking for devices that will last for years, with Apple’s iPhones known for their durability and consistent performance over time.
- Powerful Performance: Users want fast, seamless experiences for everything from social media and messaging apps to gaming, video streaming, and multitasking.
- Camera Quality: A top-notch camera system is essential for capturing clear, high-quality photos and videos, something Apple iPhones have become renowned for.
- Battery Life: Australians lead busy, on-the-go lives, and battery life has become a crucial factor in choosing a smartphone. Phones that last throughout the day without constant recharging are highly sought after.
- Value for Money: While many Australians love the prestige and functionality that come with owning an iPhone, budget-conscious buyers still want to get the most bang for their buck. This means that mid-tier devices like the iPhone 12 are particularly appealing.
By understanding these user needs, we can dive into why the Apple iPhone 12 might still be the ideal solution for many users in 2025. Even with newer models on the market, the iPhone 12 continues to deliver value, performance, and a top-tier experience for those seeking a reliable, long-lasting smartphone.
Comparison with Other iPhone Models
To better understand how the iPhone 12 stacks up in 2025, it’s important to compare it with newer models, particularly the iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and iPhone 15.
iPhone 13: Minor Improvements, Same Value
Released just one year after the iPhone 12, the iPhone 13 comes with a slightly improved camera system, a brighter display, and the newer A15 Bionic chip. While these are noticeable improvements, the differences between the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 are minimal for most users. Unless you’re specifically looking for the latest performance upgrades or enhanced battery life, the iPhone 12 remains an excellent value at a lower price point.
iPhone 14: The Shift to Dynamic Island and New Features
The iPhone 14 introduced new features like the Dynamic Island (a pill-shaped notch), improved camera capabilities, and a slightly better battery life. While these are great features, they come with a higher price tag. If you’re an Australian consumer who doesn’t need the very latest innovations, the iPhone 12’s performance and features still stand strong, making it a better budget option.
iPhone 15: Advanced Technology, Higher Price
With the iPhone 15, Apple has introduced even more advanced camera systems, a more powerful A16 Bionic chip, and improvements to battery life. While these upgrades are impressive, the iPhone 15’s price point may be prohibitive for many consumers. For those in Australia looking for value and performance without the premium costs, the iPhone 12 offers a very competitive experience.
Why the Apple iPhone 12 Continues to Make Sense in 2025
The iPhone 12 remains a popular choice for Australians who want a high-quality device without breaking the bank. Here’s why it still holds strong in 2025:
Exceptional Performance with the A14 Bionic Chip
The iPhone 12 was powered by Apple’s A14 Bionic chip, which at the time of its release, was one of the fastest processors in a smartphone. Even in 2025, the A14 chip holds up remarkably well. It can handle modern-day apps, mobile gaming, and multitasking with ease. The A14 chip has a 6-core CPU, a 4-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine that ensures smooth performance and improved energy efficiency.
While newer iPhones feature more advanced chips (like the A15 and A16), the A14 still provides excellent performance and will continue to serve users for years to come. For users who don’t require the bleeding-edge technology in the latest models, the iPhone 12 offers ample power for daily use and beyond.
Stunning Super Retina XDR Display
The iPhone 12 features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with OLED technology, offering vivid colors and deep blacks, which significantly improve the visual experience compared to the LCD screens of older models. Even in 2025, this display remains one of the best in the industry, providing sharp details, accurate color reproduction, and excellent contrast. Whether you’re watching videos, scrolling through social media, or browsing the web, the display offers an immersive experience that is still on par with modern standards.
5G Connectivity for Future-Proofing
The iPhone 12 was one of the first models to feature 5G connectivity, which was a significant advancement at the time. In 2025, 5G has become even more widespread in Australia, making this a key feature for users who want their device to be future-proofed for the coming years. With 5G, users can enjoy faster download and upload speeds, lower latency, and smoother streaming experiences. This makes the iPhone 12 still highly relevant in 2025, as Australians continue to adopt 5G networks.
Camera Capabilities
The iPhone 12’s dual-camera system includes a 12MP wide lens and a 12MP ultra-wide lens, which allows users to capture sharp, detailed photos and videos. With features like Night Mode, Deep Fusion, and Smart HDR 3, the iPhone 12 excels in low-light conditions and produces natural-looking results across various lighting environments. It also offers 4K Dolby Vision HDR video recording, which was a game-changer at the time and is still impressive in 2025.
For most users, especially those who don’t need the professional-grade camera setups in the iPhone 14 or iPhone 15, the iPhone 12’s camera will more than meet expectations, delivering fantastic results in everyday use.
iOS Software and Longevity
Apple’s iPhones are known for their longevity in terms of software updates. The iPhone 12, released in 2020, is still supported by iOS updates, and Apple typically supports its devices for at least five years. This means that, even in 2025, the iPhone 12 will continue to receive the latest iOS features and security updates, ensuring it remains relevant and secure for the foreseeable future. This is an important consideration for buyers in Australia, as they want a device that will serve them for several years without becoming outdated quickly.
Affordable Option in 2025
One of the most compelling reasons to choose the iPhone 12 in 2025 is the price. As newer iPhone models continue to be released, the iPhone 12’s price has decreased significantly, making it an attractive option for those who want a premium smartphone experience without the premium price tag. Whether you’re buying outright or looking for a contract deal, the iPhone 12 offers great value for money, particularly when compared to the more expensive iPhone 14 and iPhone 15.
Why Choose the Apple iPhone 12 in 2025?
So, why should you choose the Apple iPhone 12 in 2025? Here are some key reasons:
- Affordable Price: As newer models are released, the iPhone 12 becomes more affordable, making it a cost-effective option for those who want high-end features without paying top dollar.
- Future-Proofing with 5G: The iPhone 12’s 5G capability ensures that it will remain relevant as 5G networks expand throughout Australia.
- Long-Term Software Support: With Apple’s commitment to long-term updates, your iPhone 12 will continue to receive the latest features and security updates for several more years.
- All-Round Performance: From camera quality to battery life and overall speed, the iPhone 12 offers a well-rounded experience that meets the needs of most users, without the need for the latest (and often unnecessary) features.
- Built to Last: As with all Apple devices, the iPhone 12 is built with high-quality materials and is designed to last for several years.
Conclusion: Is the iPhone 12 Still Worth It?
In 2025, the Apple iPhone 12 remains a fantastic option for Australian consumers looking for a reliable, high-performing technology device at a more affordable price. Whether you’re upgrading from an older model or looking for a premium device without the premium price, the iPhone 12 still delivers in every department, from performance and camera quality to battery life and software support.
At Wise Market Australia, we understand that purchasing a smartphone is a big decision, and we’re here to help you make the best choice. The iPhone 12 is an excellent option that combines value, performance, and longevity, making it one of the best mid-range iPhones available today.
Invest in the iPhone 12, and experience the power of Apple at a fraction of the cost of newer models. It’s still worth your money—and more.