The iPhone 12 was released by Apple in October 2020. As with all technology, there is often a question around how long a particular device will remain useful before becoming obsolete. For those considering an iPhone 12 purchase or who already own one, understanding its expected lifespan is important.
Some key factors that determine lifespan include hardware specifications, software support from Apple, and advancements in new models. By examining these areas, we can estimate how long the iPhone 12 should remain a viable and supported device.
Hardware Specifications
The hardware inside the iPhone 12 is a key component in determining its usable lifespan. The main hardware specifications of the iPhone 12 include:
Processor
– A14 Bionic chip: Designed by Apple, this 6-core processor is fast and efficient. It can handle demanding apps and games with ease. The A14 is expected to have a lifespan of 3-5 years before being noticeably outdated.
Display
– Super Retina XDR OLED display: This display technology offers excellent image quality with vivid colors and deep blacks. High quality OLED screens typically last at least 2-3 years before any degradation.
Memory
– 4GB RAM: The iPhone 12 comes with 4GB of memory, which allows for good multitasking capabilities. Most new apps and operating systems can run with 4GB RAM for the next 3-4 years.
Storage
– 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB options: Storage space affects how many apps, photos, videos and files users can store locally. Higher storage configurations extend usefulness.
Battery
– Up to 17 hours video playback: The iPhone 12 has above average battery life that should provide adequate daily usage for at least 2 years.
Overall the internal hardware of the iPhone 12 is very capable and unlikely to become obsolete for 3-5 years. It’s reasonable to assume the hardware will outlast software support from Apple.
Software Updates
iPhones receive regular software updates from Apple for a number of years after release. These updates include new features, security patches, and performance improvements. Software support is generally a limiting factor in the lifespan of an iPhone.
The iPhone 12 launched with iOS 14 and qualifies for at least 5 years of software updates from Apple. Based on typical timelines, we can expect the following software support:
iOS Support
– iOS 14 through 19: Apple typically provides 5-6 years of support for major iOS releases. The iPhone 12 should continue receiving iOS updates through iOS 19 in 2025-2026.
Security Updates
– 5-7 years: Even after major iOS releases stop, Apple provides security updates for older iPhones. Extrapolating from past iPhones, the iPhone 12 should get security updates until 2026-2028.
Feature Updates
– 3-4 years: New iOS features are generally supported for about 3-4 years after a new iPhone release. The iPhone 12 will likely get full iOS feature updates through iOS 17 in 2024.
Based on historical software update schedules, we can expect the iPhone 12 to receive software support from Apple for 5-7 years. This suggests a software lifespan through 2026 or 2028.
New iPhone Models
Apple releases new iPhone models every September/October with improved hardware. As each new generation arrives, older models like the iPhone 12 gradually become less competitive. However, there is typically an overlap period where older models remain viable options. Based on past trends, we can expect the following for the iPhone 12:
Overlap Period
– 3-4 years: The iPhone 12 will likely remain a compelling choice over new budget models for 3-4 years after its release. This covers up to the iPhone 15 or 16 in 2023-2024.
Competitiveness
– 2-3 years: The iPhone 12 will only seem significantly outdated compared to new flagship iPhones after 2-3 years. This likely lasts until the iPhone 14 or 15 in 2022-2023.
Resale Value
– Maintenance of 40-60% original value for first 3 years: As with most electronics, the iPhone 12 will gradually decline in resale value over time. But expect it to retain 40-60% original cost for the first 3 years, indicating ongoing demand.
The arrival of new iPhone models definitely impacts the usable lifespan of previous generation iPhones. But the iPhone 12 should remain popular and capable for 3-4 years after release.
Lifespan Estimate
Taking all of these factors into account, we can make a reasonable lifespan estimate for the iPhone 12:
Minimum Lifespan
– 3 years of full usability: At a minimum, expect the iPhone 12 to remain completely functional and supported by Apple for 3 years after its release, likely until around 2023.
Standard Lifespan
– 4-5 years of full usability: The average expected lifespan for a typical user keeping the iPhone 12 until it’s noticeably outdated is 4-5 years, likely until 2024-2025.
Maximum Lifespan
– Beyond 5 years of limited usability: Some users may be able to keep the iPhone 12 as a usable device for over 5 years after release, but with declining software support and competitiveness. Functionality is likely to be limited beyond 2025-2026.
Factors That May Reduce Lifespan
While we expect an approximately 4-5 year lifespan for the iPhone 12 under normal usage, there are some factors that could potentially shorten its usable life:
– Hardware damage from drops or accidents
– Liquid damage that corrodes electronic components
– Poor maintenance such as letting the battery completely die repeatedly
– Excessive usage patterns like gaming that cause more rapid hardware deterioration
– Failure to install software updates which increase security risks
– Loss or theft of device
Proper care and maintenance is important to achieving a normal iPhone 12 lifespan. With excessive damage or neglect, the usable lifespan may be reduced to only 2-3 years.
Maintaining Your iPhone 12
To maximize the usable life of your iPhone 12, here are some tips:
Update Software Regularly
Install iOS updates as soon as they become available to stay current on new features, security patches, and performance improvements. Keeping your iPhone 12 on the latest iOS version will ensure compatibility and optimal battery health.
Avoid Excessive Heat
Don’t leave your iPhone 12 in excessively hot places like cars on sunny days. High heat can degrade the battery and internal components. Avoiding thermal extremes prolongs lifespan.
Replace Battery Promptly
Have the battery replaced at an Apple store when capacity drops below 80%. Letting the battery completely die regularly will shorten its lifespan. Replacing it early maintains normal usage time between charges.
Use a Sturdy Case
Protect your iPhone 12 from drops and impacts by using an impact-resistant case and screen protector. This prevents costly damage from accidental drops that can end its useful life prematurely.
Keep It Clean
Don’t allow dirt, dust and grime to build up on your iPhone 12. Gently clean it from time to time with a soft cloth to prevent abrasion and allow proper heat dissipation from internal components.
Conclusion
Based on its hardware specifications, software support timelines, and historical iPhone lifespans, we expect the iPhone 12 to remain a functionally capable device for 4-5 years after its release in 2020. With proper maintenance and care, some users may achieve 5-6 years of use before it’s considered obsolete. But accelerated hardware deterioration or lack of software support could reduce effective lifespan to only 2-3 years. By installing regular iOS updates, avoiding damage, and replacing the battery when needed, most users should be able to reasonably expect 4-5 years of service from an iPhone 12 purchased new.