Apple chose 5G over 120Hz for iPhone 12: Report

All four iPhone 12 models are expected to come with 5G support but we'll most likely not see 120Hz displays this time.

iPhone 12 launch.

Apple is slated to launch its new iPhones later tonight. The iPhone 12 series is expected to come with some major upgrades other than the incremental ones. One feature it could miss on is 120Hz refresh rate which is said to have been scraped for 5G support.

Initial rumours of the iPhone 12 hinted at 120Hz displays. But more credible reports appeared later suggesting that Apple will not offer 120Hz displays this time mainly due to battery issues. According to Jon Prosser, Apple had to choose between 120Hz and 5G which is another battery drainer. With both features eating away the iPhone 12's battery, 5G was the more reasonable choice as it would be “easier to market.” The Apple Event title “Hi, Speed” also hints at 5G connectivity. As for 120Hz displays, Prosser assures it will be available in 2021 iPhones.

Apple is expected to launch as many as four new iPhone models today. We could see an iPhone 12 mini (5.4-inch), iPhone 12 (6.1-inch), iPhone 12 Pro (6.1-inch) and iPhone 12 Pro Max (6.7-inch). All four iPhones are said to offer 5G support but Apple could skip it on the iPhone 12 mini. The new iPhone 12 series will be powered by the A14 Bionic chipset which launched on the iPad Air last month. The new iPhones are also expected to feature an iPad Pro-like design with flat edges.

In addition to its specs and design, its expected prices have also been leaked. iPhone 12 mini will reportedly start at $699 for the base model with 64GB storage. iPhone 12 will start at $799 while the iPhone 12 Pro will carry a price tag of $999 for the base model. The most premium and expensive iPhone 12 Pro Max will be available at a starting price of $1,099.