Apple has unveiled the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini with 5G technology, ushering in a new era for the smartphone.
According to senior vice president worldwide marketing, Greg Joswiak, the arrival of 5G marks the beginning of a new era for iPhone. “We’re once again pushing the boundaries to deliver incredible computational photography advancements, Super Retina XDR displays and the biggest leap in durability in iPhone history with the new Ceramic Shield front cover,” he said.
The Apple-designed A14 Bionic, claimed to be the fastest chip in a smartphone, powers every experience on iPhone 12, and coupled with an advanced dual-camera system, delivers new computational photography features and the highest quality video in a smartphone. 5G technology delivers improved speeds for faster downloads and uploads, higher quality video streaming, more responsive gaming, real-time interactivity in apps and FaceTime in HD. Customers will also get secure, fast connection, reducing the need to connect to public Wi-Fi hotspots.
The iPhone 12 mini is said to be the smallest, thinnest and lightest 5G smartphone available, re-architected to pack all the technology into a compact size including a large and immersive edge-to-edge display within a sleek new flat-edge design with an aerospace-grade aluminium enclosure. Both carry industry-leading IP68 rating for water resistance up to six meters for up to 30 minutes.
iPhone12 is the first camera to shoot HDR video with Dolby Vision and is the first and only device enabling end-to-end Dolby Vision experience to capture, edit and share cinema-grade videos natively on iPhone.
iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini will be available in five aluminium finishes, including blue, green, black, white and red, in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB with RRPs starting at $1,349.
Belkin announces iPhone 12 accessories
Belkin will introduce new products across mobile power, screen protection and accessories that are engineered and designed for the iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max.
Belkin mobile accessories offer secure wireless charging capabilities up to 15W, compatible with the new MagSafe system, flexible and reliable glass material for additional screen protection, and hands-free convenience for using the phone when driving.
The Boost↑Charge Pro MagSafe 3-in-1 Wireless Charger (RRP $219.95) provides up to 15W of wireless charging power, compatible with MagSafe. It also delivers 5W charging power for AirPods Pro and AirPods with Wireless Charging Case, and a wireless charging module for Apple Watch. It features a non-slip design to support portrait or landscape mode and is compatible with MagSafe cases up to 3mm thick. Local launch date is TBA.
The MagSafe Car Vent Mount Pro (RRP $54.95) provides a safe and stylish way to use iPhone 12 on the road. The magnet module uses MagSafe to keep the device in place in portrait or landscape mode with cable management. Designed exclusively to fit iPhone 12 models, it features a slim-profile and premium finishes. Local launch date is TBA.
iPhone 12 models feature a new Ceramic Shield front cover, tougher than any smartphone glass. The UltraGlass screen protector (RRP from $29.95) gives users extra protection with German-engineered lithium aluminosilicate (LAS) glass, the next generation of screen protection for improved flexibility and reliability. Chemically strengthened through a double-ion exchange process, UltraGlass screen protector is two times stronger than tempered glass with added impact and scratch protection while maintaining an ultra-slim design.
The UltraGlass screen protector is first-to-market with use of LAS materials in screen protection. Users can enjoy two-way privacy filters for full-screen privacy when viewed from side with UltraGlass Privacy Screen Protector. It will be available on the same day as the on-shelf date for iPhone 12 in Australia.
Apple introduces HomePod mini
Apple has also launched a powerful smart speaker, the HomePod mini that combines music listening and intelligent assistant Siri with smart home capabilities, wrapped in a compact design.
It works with iPhone to hand off music, answers calls, delivers personalised listening suggestions, elevates sound from Apple TV and plays music from a Mac. HomePod mini speakers work together to stream music or podcasts to multiple rooms.
HomePod mini makes controlling smart home accessories easier than ever with simple voice commands for Siri to turn off the lights, change the temperature, lock the doors or set a scene. It works as a home hub, providing access to smart home accessories at home or away. A new intercom feature offers a quick and easy way for family members to connect with each other at home.
Additional features include Siri Shortcuts, ambient sounds, Find My to locate a misplaced device and music alarms.At just under 8.5 centimetres tall it will be available in white and space grey for $149 RRP.