iPhone 12 • Unlocked vs iPhone 15 Pro • Unlocked

The iPhone 12, released in October 2020, and the iPhone 15 Pro, launched in September 2023, represent different generations within Apple's smartphone lineup. While both devices operate on Apple's iOS ecosystem, the iPhone 15 Pro introduces significant advancements in display technology, camera capabilities, and overall performance. These differences cater to varying user needs and priorities.

When considering the practical lifespan of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and repairability.

• Release Timeline: The iPhone 12 was introduced in October 2020, making it an older model compared to the iPhone 15 Pro, which debuted in September 2023. This age difference directly impacts the remaining period of official software support.
• OS Support Duration: The iPhone 12 launched with iOS 14 and is compatible with iOS 26, expected in 2025, offering a substantial period of software updates. The iPhone 15 Pro, starting with iOS 17, is also compatible with iOS 26 and is anticipated to receive major software updates for a longer duration, potentially until at least 2028, providing extended longevity for users prioritizing the latest features and security.
• Repairability: The iPhone 12 received an iFixit repairability score of 6 out of 10, with some concerns noted regarding Apple's system configuration requirements for certain part replacements. The iPhone 15 Pro has a provisional repairability score of 7 out of 10, indicating some improvements in ease of repair, partly due to Apple's Repair Assistant software tool.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from browsing to demanding applications. Both devices offer capable performance, but the newer model brings notable enhancements.

• Storage Options: The iPhone 12 was available with 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of internal storage. The iPhone 15 Pro offers more generous options, starting at 128GB and extending to 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, providing greater flexibility for users with extensive data or media libraries.
• Battery Behavior: The iPhone 12 features a 2815 mAh battery, generally providing sufficient power for a full day of moderate use. The iPhone 15 Pro, with its 3274 mAh battery and more efficient components, typically offers longer usage times, with users often reporting extended battery life even under heavy use.
• Overall System Responsiveness: The iPhone 12 handles everyday applications and multitasking smoothly. The iPhone 15 Pro, equipped with a more advanced processor, delivers a noticeably faster and more fluid experience, particularly with graphically intensive games, professional applications, and complex multitasking scenarios.

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both models feature high-quality screens, though with distinct differences.

• Display Technology: Both the iPhone 12 and iPhone 15 Pro feature a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, offering deep blacks and vibrant colors. The iPhone 15 Pro further enhances this with ProMotion technology, allowing for adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz.
• Resolution and Clarity: The iPhone 12 has a resolution of 2532 x 1170 pixels at 460 ppi. The iPhone 15 Pro offers a slightly higher resolution of 2556 x 1179 pixels at 460 ppi, resulting in sharp and clear visuals on both devices.
• Brightness Levels: The iPhone 12 provides a typical maximum brightness of 625 nits and a peak HDR brightness of 1200 nits. The iPhone 15 Pro significantly increases these figures, offering 1000 nits typical brightness, 1600 nits peak HDR, and up to 2000 nits peak brightness for outdoor viewing, improving visibility in bright conditions.

Camera systems are a key differentiator, with the iPhone 15 Pro showcasing substantial advancements over its predecessor.

• Camera System Capabilities: The iPhone 12 features a dual 12MP camera system with a wide (f/1.6) and ultra-wide (f/2.4) lens. The iPhone 15 Pro upgrades to a triple camera system, including a 48MP main sensor (f/1.78), a 12MP ultra-wide lens (f/2.2) with autofocus, and a 12MP telephoto lens (f/2.8) with 3x optical zoom.
• Photography Performance: Both devices offer Night mode, Deep Fusion, and Smart HDR for improved image processing. The iPhone 15 Pro benefits from a larger main sensor, second-generation sensor-shift optical image stabilization, and the ability to capture 24MP or 48MP super-high-resolution photos, leading to more detailed and versatile images, especially in challenging lighting.
• Video Recording Quality: The iPhone 12 supports HDR video recording with Dolby Vision up to 4K at 30 fps. The iPhone 15 Pro expands on this with ProRes video recording up to 4K at 60 fps (with external recording), Cinematic mode, Action mode, and spatial video recording, offering more advanced options for videographers.