iPhone 12 vs iPhone 15 Plus

The iPhone 12, released in October 2020, and the iPhone 15 Plus, launched in September 2023, represent different generations within Apple's smartphone lineup. While both operate on the iOS platform, the iPhone 15 Plus introduces a larger display, a more advanced camera system, and updated connectivity features compared to its predecessor.

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release dates and expected software support.

• Release Timeline: The iPhone 12 was introduced in October 2020, making it a device from an earlier generation. The iPhone 15 Plus, released in September 2023, benefits from a more recent launch, offering a longer potential lifespan for software updates.
• Software Support: The iPhone 12 is compatible with iOS 26, released in March 2026, indicating a substantial period of software support since its launch. The iPhone 15 Plus launched with iOS 17 and is compatible with iOS 18 and iOS 26, suggesting it will receive major iOS updates for several years beyond the iPhone 12.
• Physical Durability: Both models feature a Ceramic Shield front cover and an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, designed to withstand immersion in up to 6 meters of water for up to 30 minutes. The iPhone 15 Plus also features a color-infused glass back, while the iPhone 12 has a standard glass back.
• Repairability: The iPhone 12 received a repairability score of 6 out of 10 from iFixit, noting that many parts are replaceable, though some repairs require proprietary tools. The iPhone 15 models, including the Plus, have seen their repairability score promoted to 7 out of 10, indicating some improvements in ease of repair.

The performance capabilities of these two iPhones differ due to the advancements in internal components over their respective release cycles.

• Processing Power: The iPhone 15 Plus incorporates a newer generation processor, which translates to smoother operation for demanding applications, more efficient multitasking, and enhanced graphics performance for gaming. The iPhone 12, while still capable for everyday tasks, may exhibit slower loading times and less fluid performance with intensive applications compared to the newer model.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: The iPhone 15 Plus is equipped with 6GB of RAM, providing more capacity for running multiple applications simultaneously without slowdowns. The iPhone 12 features 4GB of RAM, which is sufficient for general use but may show limitations when switching between many active applications.
• Storage Options: The iPhone 12 was available with storage capacities of 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB. The iPhone 15 Plus offers larger base storage options, starting at 128GB and extending to 256GB and 512GB, providing more space for apps, photos, and videos.
• Battery Behavior: Users generally report that the iPhone 15 Plus offers significantly improved battery life, often lasting a full day or more even with heavy usage. The iPhone 12's battery life was considered good at its release but may require more frequent charging for heavy users, especially as the device ages.

The visual experience on both devices is delivered through high-quality OLED displays, though there are notable differences in size, brightness, and features.

• Display Technology and Size: Both the iPhone 12 and iPhone 15 Plus feature Super Retina XDR OLED displays, known for deep blacks and vibrant colors. The iPhone 12 has a 6.1-inch display, offering a compact viewing area. The iPhone 15 Plus boasts a larger 6.7-inch display, providing a more expansive canvas for media consumption and productivity.
• Resolution and Clarity: Both displays offer a pixel density of approximately 460 pixels per inch (ppi), ensuring sharp text and detailed images. The iPhone 12 has a resolution of 2532 x 1170 pixels, while the iPhone 15 Plus features a higher resolution of 2796 x 1290 pixels to accommodate its larger screen size.
• Brightness Levels: The iPhone 15 Plus offers significantly higher brightness, with a typical maximum of 1000 nits, a peak HDR brightness of 1600 nits, and an impressive 2000 nits for outdoor peak brightness, making it easier to view content in bright sunlight. The iPhone 12 has a typical maximum brightness of 625 nits and a peak HDR brightness of 1200 nits.
• Refresh Rate and Features: Both models feature a standard 60Hz refresh rate. A key differentiator for the iPhone 15 Plus is the inclusion of the Dynamic Island, which replaces the traditional notch and provides interactive alerts and background activities.

The camera systems on the iPhone 12 and iPhone 15 Plus offer distinct capabilities, with the newer model featuring significant advancements in sensor technology and computational photography.

• Main Camera System: The iPhone 12 features a dual 12MP camera system, including a wide-angle lens with an f/1.6 aperture and an ultra-wide-angle lens with an f/2.4 aperture. The iPhone 15 Plus upgrades to a 48MP main camera with an f/1.6 aperture and sensor-shift optical image stabilization, alongside a 12MP ultra-wide camera with an f/2.4 aperture. The higher resolution main sensor on the 15 Plus allows for 2x optical quality telephoto shots by cropping the sensor.
• Photography Performance: The iPhone 15 Plus delivers brighter, more detailed images, particularly in low-light conditions, due to its larger main sensor and improved image processing, including the Photonic Engine and Smart HDR 5. The iPhone 12's camera system was praised for its good color reproduction and low-light performance at its release, but it may show more noise in very dim environments compared to the 15 Plus.
• Video Recording Capabilities: Both devices support 4K video recording at various frame rates. The iPhone 15 Plus introduces advanced video features such as Cinematic mode and Action mode, offering more creative control and stabilization for video content.
• Front Camera and Audio: Both phones feature a 12MP TrueDepth front camera. The iPhone 15 Plus's front camera has an f/1.9 aperture and autofocus, enhancing selfie quality. Both models provide good microphone quality for calls and video recording, and stereo speakers for media consumption.