New iPhone launches for the holidays

iPhone+12+Pro+Max+displayed+in+the+new+pacific+blue+color+variation.

Sequoia Wilcox

iPhone 12 Pro Max displayed in the new pacific blue color variation.

Apple released the new mainstream iPhones for 2020: the iPhone 12, Pro, Pro Max, and Mini just in time for the holiday season.

These phones feature both bigger and smaller displays. According to Apple, the new Mini has a screen length of 5.18 inches, while the Pro Max is 6.33 inches. It also has a ceramic shield, which offers more durability when dropped. All of the phones have sleek, flat sides giving it a thinner and lighter feel.

“I like the old boxy look that Apple brought back,” said junior Mario Marinelli.

As usual with Apple’s new releases, the camera has improved. The rear camera contains three lenses and a new depth-sensing technology called lidar that works similar to Apple face ID. These phones introduce night mode, which assists in low-light circumstances by scanning the landscape and expanding the visual data from the lens. Lidar also helps by allowing the camera to focus faster in the dark. 

“Both the Wide and Ultra Wide cameras now have Night mode, and it’s better than ever at capturing incredible low-light shots,” says Apple. “So whether you take photos by day or by moonlight, you’ll get a level of detail and color that wasn’t possible before.”

To reduce carbon emissions from shipping the phones, Apple announced that this lineup will not contain a wall adapter or EarPods with the phone. This means the phones will come in smaller boxes so more are able to fit in delivery trucks, thus less trucks are needed. A USB-C charging cord is still included.

“I use AirPods, so no headphones wasn’t a problem, and no charging block was kind of a ripoff, but I have plenty,” said senior Matt Seaman.

The highest-end and priciest iPhones, the Pro and Pro Max, have a price range from $999-$1,299 and $1,099-$1,399 respectively depending on the storage size. In comparison, the 12 and Mini are more affordable at $829-$979 and $729-$879, respectively.

“I had a half off deal, so the price was not that much of an issue, but for anyone upgrading without a deal or upgrade, I don’t suggest it,” said Matt.