When it comes to buying a smartphone in Australia, one name has dominated for years: Apple. Known for its innovation and premium design, the iPhone continues to be a flagship in the smartphone market. But with the release of the iPhone 13, 14, and 15, many are asking the question: Is the Apple iPhone 12 still worth buying in 2025? And more importantly, is it still a smart purchase if you are buying from Wise Market Australia?
In this detailed guide, we will break down the features, performance, value, and overall user experience of the Apple iPhone 12, and compare it with newer models to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you. We’ll also dive into the important aspects of purchasing the iPhone 12 in Australia, from pricing to local shipping and warranty concerns. With over 3000 words of in-depth analysis, this post is designed to not only inform but also build trust, establish brand authority, and help you understand the full scope of what buying the iPhone 12 can offer.
1. Overview of the Apple iPhone 12
The iPhone 12 was released in October 2020 and was part of the 14th generation of iPhones. At the time of release, it represented a balance of cutting-edge features and affordability, offering users access to Apple’s latest technology without going all-in on the more expensive Pro models. While the iPhone 12 may have been superseded by newer versions, it is still an incredibly capable device with features that continue to make it relevant today. Here’s an overview of the key features:
- Design: The Apple iPhone 12 introduces a major design shift from its predecessors, adopting flat edges with an aluminum frame and Ceramic Shield glass on the front. This design choice was highly praised for its premium feel and increased durability. With an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, it’s also built to last in various environmental conditions.
- Display: The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display is one of the standout features of the iPhone 12. Offering a resolution of 2532 x 1170 pixels, the display is sharp, vibrant, and bright enough to handle outdoor use. The inclusion of HDR10 and Dolby Vision makes this display a treat for watching content in high-definition, offering rich colours and deep blacks that rival the best displays on the market today.
- Performance: Powered by the A14 Bionic chip, the iPhone 12 delivers superb performance for a mid-range device. The A14 chip was the first 5nm processor in the mobile industry, delivering better performance per watt compared to previous generations. Whether you’re gaming, multitasking, or using demanding applications, the iPhone 12 offers smooth performance.
- Camera System: The Apple iPhone 12 features a dual-camera setup: a 12MP wide lens with f/1.6 aperture and a 12MP ultra-wide lens with f/2.4 aperture. While it lacks the telephoto lens of the Pro models, the camera system delivers stunning results, especially in low light, thanks to Night Mode and Deep Fusion. The iPhone 12 also supports Dolby Vision HDR video recording, which is a unique feature not found in many competing smartphones.
- Battery Life: While battery life on the iPhone 12 is not as long-lasting as some newer models, it still holds up well for daily use. With up to 17 hours of video playback, the iPhone 12 should comfortably get you through a full day of regular tasks. Additionally, the iPhone 12 supports MagSafe and Qi wireless charging, which makes it convenient for charging on the go.
- Connectivity: The iPhone 12 supports 5G, which ensures that the device is future-proof for years to come as 5G networks expand globally, including in Australia. Whether you’re using 5G or Wi-Fi 6, connectivity is fast and reliable.
2. Why the Apple iPhone 12 Still Holds Up in 2025
As we move into 2025, the Apple iPhone 12 continues to be a highly relevant device, even though Apple has launched newer models. Here are a few reasons why it still makes sense for many users to buy the iPhone 12 in 2025:
a. Performance
Even though the iPhone 12’s A14 Bionic chip is technically “older,” it still offers a level of performance that many Android phones can’t match. Apps launch quickly, multitasking is seamless, and intensive tasks like gaming or video editing remain smooth. The iPhone 12 is also supported by the latest iOS updates, meaning it’ll stay relevant with new software features for the next few years.
b. Display Quality
The Super Retina XDR OLED display in the iPhone 12 is still one of the best in the business. It offers rich colours, deep contrast, and excellent brightness. Whether you’re browsing the web, watching videos, or playing games, this display remains sharp and vibrant. Many newer models only offer incremental upgrades to the display, meaning the iPhone 12’s screen is still top-tier.
c. Affordable Price Point
The Apple iPhone 12 is now available at a significantly lower price than its successors, making it a very attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. If you don’t need the latest and greatest camera setup or the most advanced features, the iPhone 12 offers excellent value. When you purchase it through Wise Market Australia, you get the added benefit of reliable local shipping, warranty support, and a guaranteed genuine product.
d. 5G Compatibility
As 5G networks continue to roll out in Australia, the iPhone 12 is well-equipped to take advantage of faster download and upload speeds. This makes the device future-proof and ready for the next wave of network advancements. If you’re planning to keep your phone for several years, having 5G support is a solid investment.
e. MagSafe Compatibility
The iPhone 12 introduced MagSafe, an accessory ecosystem that makes charging and attaching compatible accessories easier. From wireless chargers to magnetic cases, MagSafe is a useful feature that remains compatible with future Apple accessories. This feature is still very relevant for users who want convenience and versatility in their device.
3. Performance Compared to Newer Models
While the Apple iPhone 12 may not boast the same performance specs as the iPhone 13, 14, or 15, it still holds up well in terms of processing power, display quality, and overall performance. Let’s break down the key differences between the iPhone 12 and some of its newer counterparts.
a. iPhone 13 vs iPhone 12
The iPhone 13 offers improved battery life (up to 2.5 hours longer), a brighter display, and the A15 Bionic chip, which is slightly faster than the A14. The iPhone 13 also features sensor-shift optical image stabilization (OIS) for the main camera, which improves photo quality, especially in low light.
However, the iPhone 12’s A14 Bionic chip is still powerful enough to handle day-to-day tasks with ease, and the difference in performance between the two chips is barely noticeable in real-world usage. The Apple iPhone 12 also offers great value at a lower price point.
b. iPhone 14 vs iPhone 12
The iPhone 14 comes with a new design, improved cameras, and better battery life. It also includes safety features like crash detection, which is a great feature for peace of mind while driving. However, like the iPhone 13, the iPhone 14’s performance is mostly incremental, with the A15 Bionic chip powering both devices.
If you’re looking to save money without compromising on performance or features, the Apple iPhone 12 remains a highly capable device. The extra cost for the iPhone 14 may not be worth it for users who don’t need the latest features.
c. iPhone 15 vs iPhone 12
The iPhone 15 introduces the USB-C charging port, a faster A16 Bionic chip, and improved camera features. While these upgrades are nice, they may not justify the higher price for users who don’t need these specific features. The iPhone 12’s A14 chip is still very fast, and the device’s overall performance is more than adequate for everyday tasks.
4. The iPhone 12 in Australia: What You Need to Know
If you’re in Australia and considering buying the iPhone 12, here are a few things you should keep in mind:
a. Local Pricing and Availability
Prices for the Apple iPhone 12 can vary depending on the storage capacity and whether you’re buying new or refurbished. On Wise Market Australia, you can often find great deals on the iPhone 12, especially with seasonal sales or promotions. The standard price for the iPhone 12 is typically around $799 to $999 AUD for the 64GB and 128GB versions.
b. Shipping and Warranty Support
One of the key benefits of buying from Wise Market Australia is the convenience of local shipping. When you buy through an Australian retailer, you can rest assured that your product is genuine and that you have access to local warranty support. Apple’s warranty is generally valid for 12 months, but if you choose to purchase AppleCare+, you can extend your coverage for an additional 2 years.
c. Local Features
The iPhone 12 supports all the necessary Australian 4G and 5G bands, ensuring excellent network compatibility. Whether you’re in Sydney, Melbourne, or Perth, you can be confident that the iPhone 12 will offer fast internet speeds and reliable connectivity.
5. Why Choose Wise Market Australia
When you purchase the iPhone 12 from Wise Market Australia, you are not just buying a phone—you are investing in peace of mind. Wise Market offers genuine products with reliable local shipping and warranty support. Plus, if you’re concerned about cost, Wise Market often has great deals on refurbished models that are as good as new.
6. Conclusion: Is the iPhone 12 Still a Smart Buy?
In 2025, the Apple iPhone 12 is still an excellent choice for many users, especially those looking for a premium tech device at a lower price. With its strong performance, fantastic display, good camera, and future-proof 5G support, it provides great value for money. Whether you’re a budget-conscious buyer or simply don’t need the absolute latest features, the iPhone 12 is a solid investment.
If you’re in Australia, Wise Market Australia provides an ideal platform to purchase your iPhone 12, offering competitive pricing, local shipping, and warranty options. The iPhone 12 offers everything you need in a phone without the steep price tag of newer models.
So, is the iPhone 12 still a smart buy? The answer is a resounding yes—especially for those looking for a balanced device that doesn’t compromise on performance or design.