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Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max: Everything You Need to Know



A. Overview of the iPhone 12 Pro Max


The Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max, the largest and most feature-packed model in the iPhone 12 series, has made a significant impact on the smartphone market.


With its 6-inch screen size and weighing 8 ounces, this device stands out among its competitors, including the iPhone 13 Pro Max and the iPhone 11 Pro Max. Boasting a Pacific Blue color, Ceramic Shield front cover, and longer battery life, the iPhone 12 Pro Max delivers an impressive blend of design and functionality.


Powered by the A14 Bionic chip, the iPhone 12 Pro Max offers superior performance and 5G speeds for faster connectivity. Its advanced camera system, featuring a LiDAR scanner, sensor-shift optical image stabilization, and Night Mode, enables exceptional low-light performance and stunning 4K video recording. The new Dolby Vision capabilities, Smart HDR, and Telephoto lens contribute to the device's acclaim, as seen in various iPhone 12 Pro Max reviews.


While some users may prefer the more compact iPhone 12 Mini, the iPhone 12 Pro Max caters to those who desire a larger display and advanced features. With its 3rd generation Face ID, big phones enthusiasts can experience enhanced security and convenience. The iPhone 12 range has set a high standard for future models, making it a worthy contender against Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra and S21 Ultra.


With up to 20 hours of battery life, the iPhone 12 Pro Max is the biggest reason many users are upgrading their devices.


B. Compare-and-Review.com's role in providing unbiased insights


At Compare-and-Review.com, our mission is to deliver unbiased insights and comprehensive analysis of the latest smartphones, such as the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 13 Pro Max, and iPhone 11 Pro Max. By thoroughly evaluating each device, including screen size, battery life, and unique features like the A14 Bionic chip and LiDAR scanner, we empower our readers to make informed decisions when choosing their next smartphone.


Our team of experts closely examines each iPhone model, from the compact iPhone 12 Mini to the larger iPhone 12 Pro Max with its stunning Pacific Blue color and Ceramic Shield. We delve into the camera capabilities, comparing low-light performance, Smart HDR, and sensor-shift optical image stabilization across the range. By considering the devices' 5G speeds, Dolby Vision capabilities, and Face ID security, we provide a comprehensive understanding of each model's strengths and weaknesses.


Compare-and-Review.com is dedicated to maintaining our role as an impartial source of information. We understand the importance of evaluating not only Apple's iPhone 12 series but also the offerings from other manufacturers, such as the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra and S21 Ultra.


Our detailed comparisons and reviews help our readers weigh the merits of each device, ensuring they choose the best option for their needs and preferences. Trust Compare-and-Review.com for reliable, unbiased insights into the ever-evolving world of smartphones.


II. Design and Appearance


A. iPhone 12 Pro Max aesthetics


The iPhone 12 Pro Max stands out in the realm of smartphones with its striking design and attention to detail. With a sleek form factor and a selection of sophisticated colors, including the eye-catching Pacific Blue, this device is as much a statement piece as it is a functional tool. The iPhone 12 Pro Max boasts a 6-inch OLED screen, providing users with a vivid, immersive visual experience that's perfect for watching videos, gaming, or scrolling through photos.


One of the standout features of the iPhone 12 Pro Max's design is the Ceramic Shield, which not only enhances the device's overall aesthetics but also provides increased durability and protection. Apple has combined this cutting-edge material with a stainless steel frame, resulting in a device that is not only visually stunning but also built to withstand the rigors of daily use.


Weighing in at 8 ounces, the iPhone 12 Pro Max is relatively lightweight for a device of its size, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. The overall design is a testament to Apple's commitment to innovation and elegance, as the iPhone 12 Pro Max effortlessly combines form and function. Whether you're a long-time iPhone user or new to the Apple ecosystem, the iPhone 12 Pro Max's aesthetics are sure to make a lasting impression.


B. Dimensions and weight


The iPhone 12 Pro Max is designed with both aesthetics and practicality in mind, offering a large screen and powerful features while maintaining a comfortable size and weight for everyday use. With dimensions of 0.28 x 3.07 x 6.3 inches, the iPhone 12 Pro Max is slightly larger than its predecessor, the iPhone 11 Pro Max, but still fits comfortably in the hand, making it easy to operate and navigate.


One of the key aspects that contribute to the iPhone 12 Pro Max's usability is its weight. At 8 ounces, this device strikes a balance between sturdiness and portability. It is light enough to carry around without causing discomfort, yet still has a solid feel that provides a sense of durability and reliability. This balance ensures that users can fully enjoy the wide range of features and capabilities offered by the iPhone 12 Pro Max without feeling weighed down by their device.


In summary, the dimensions and weight of the iPhone 12 Pro Max have been carefully considered to provide an optimal user experience. The device's size and heft allow for easy handling and usage while still accommodating the advanced features and large display that users have come to expect from Apple's flagship smartphones.


III. Key Features


A. Major selling points

  • 🚀 Powerful A14 Bionic processor

  • 📸 Advanced camera system with LiDAR scanner and sensor-shift optical image stabilization

  • 🌃 Improved low-light performance and Smart HDR

  • 🎥 Dolby Vision support for professional-grade video recording

  • 📱 Larger 6-inch display with Ceramic Shield protection

  • 🌐 5G speeds for fast and reliable internet connectivity

  • 🔋 Longer battery life with up to 20 hours of talk time or video playback


B. Unique aspects of the iPhone 12 Pro Max


The iPhone 12 Pro Max offers a variety of unique aspects that set it apart from other smartphones in the market. These include:

  • 🌌 Pacific Blue color option: The exclusive Pacific Blue color adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the iPhone 12 Pro Max's design.

  • 🛡️ Ceramic Shield: Apple's innovative Ceramic Shield provides four times better drop performance, offering enhanced protection for the device's screen.

  • 📸 Sensor-shift optical image stabilization: This advanced stabilization technology allows for steadier shots and improved low-light performance in the wide camera.

  • 🔭 2.5x optical zoom: The iPhone 12 Pro Max features a powerful telephoto lens with 2.5x optical zoom, providing more detailed and clearer photos from a distance.

  • 🔋 Bigger battery capacity: With a 2815mAh battery, the iPhone 12 Pro Max offers longer battery life compared to other iPhone models.

  • 💨 Fastest 5G experience: The iPhone 12 Pro Max supports a wide range of 5G bands, offering faster download and streaming speeds, as well as improved overall network performance.

These unique features make the iPhone 12 Pro Max an attractive option for users seeking the best in smartphone technology and performance.


IV. Technical Specifications


A. Hardware and software details

  • Product Dimensions: 0.28 x 3.07 x 6.3 inches

  • Item Weight: 8.8 ounces

  • ASIN: B09JFFG8D7

  • Item model number: iPhone 12 Pro Max

  • Customer Reviews: 4.4 out of 5 stars with 1,327 ratings

  • OS: iOS 12

  • RAM: 256 GB

  • Wireless communication technologies: Cellular

  • Connectivity technologies: Bluetooth

  • Other display features: Wireless

  • Form Factor: Smartphone

  • Battery Power Rating: 2815 mAh

  • What's in the box: SIM Tray Ejector, USB Cable

  • Manufacturer: Apple Computer

  • Country of Origin: USA

  • Date First Available: October 14, 2021

These hardware and software details provide an overview of the iPhone 12 Pro Max's specifications, showcasing its advanced features and capabilities as a high-performance device.


B. Memory and storage options


The iPhone 12 Pro Max is available in three storage options to cater to users' varying needs:

  1. 128 GB: Suitable for users who do not store a large amount of media on their devices or rely on cloud storage services.

  2. 256 GB: Ideal for users who store a significant amount of apps, photos, and videos on their device, or those who require more space for multitasking.

  3. 512 GB: Perfect for heavy users who need ample storage for large files, high-quality media, and extensive app libraries.

Please note that the iPhone 12 Pro Max does not have expandable storage, so it's essential to choose the right storage capacity according to your needs at the time of purchase.


V. Camera System


A. Rear and front-facing cameras


The iPhone 12 Pro Max boasts an impressive camera setup, ensuring high-quality photography and videography for users.


Rear Cameras:

  1. Ultra-Wide Camera: 12 MP, f/2.4 aperture, and 120° field of view, great for capturing landscape and group shots.

  2. Wide Camera: 12 MP, f/1.6 aperture, providing improved low-light performance and enhanced image stabilization.

  3. Telephoto Camera: 12 MP, f/2.2 aperture, with 2.5x optical zoom in, 2x optical zoom out, and 5x optical zoom range.

Key rear camera features:

  • Night mode, Deep Fusion, and Smart HDR 4 for better detail and color accuracy in various lighting conditions.

  • Sensor-shift optical image stabilization for reduced camera shake and improved image quality.

  • 4K Dolby Vision HDR recording for professional-quality video capture.

  • LiDAR Scanner for improved augmented reality experiences and faster autofocus in low light.

Front-facing Camera (TrueDepth Camera):

  • 12 MP, f/2.2 aperture.

  • Enabled for Face ID facial recognition technology.

Key front camera features:

  • Night mode, Deep Fusion, and Smart HDR 4 for enhanced selfies in different lighting conditions.

  • 4K Dolby Vision HDR recording for high-quality video capture.

  • Animoji and Memoji support fun and personalized messaging experiences.

B. Camera capabilities and features


The iPhone 12 Pro Max offers a wide range of camera features that make it an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts and casual users alike. Some of the standout capabilities and features include:

  1. Night Mode: Available on both rear and front-facing cameras, Night Mode captures well-exposed and detailed images in low-light conditions, automatically adjusting exposure settings for optimal results.

  2. Deep Fusion: Leveraging the power of the A14 Bionic chip, Deep Fusion analyzes multiple exposures to create a single image with improved texture, detail, and reduced noise.

  3. Smart HDR 4: This feature balances the exposure, shadows, and highlights in a scene, providing enhanced dynamic range and more natural-looking images.

  4. Sensor-shift Optical Image Stabilization: Exclusive to the iPhone 12 Pro Max, this technology stabilizes the camera sensor rather than the lens, resulting in sharper images and smoother video recordings, especially in low-light situations or when capturing fast-moving subjects.

  5. 4K Dolby Vision HDR Video Recording: Record professional-quality videos with 4K resolution, Dolby Vision HDR support, and up to 60 frames per second for stunningly smooth and vivid footage.

  6. LiDAR Scanner: This advanced technology enables faster autofocus in low-light conditions and improves augmented reality experiences by accurately measuring depth and distance.

  7. Portrait Mode: Create stunning portraits with a blurred background, simulating a shallow depth of field effect, and enhanced control over lighting effects.

  8. Time-lapse, Slo-mo, and Panorama: Capture dynamic time-lapse videos, slow-motion footage, and stunning panoramic images with ease.

  9. Photographic Styles: Customize the look of your photos with predefined styles that adjust tone, contrast, and color to your preference.

  10. ProRAW and ProRes Video: For advanced users, the iPhone 12 Pro Max supports ProRAW and ProRes video formats, offering greater control over post-processing and editing.

VI. Battery and Charging


A. Battery life and capacity


The iPhone 12 Pro Max is equipped with a 2815 mAh battery, providing users with impressive battery life to power through daily tasks and activities. On a single charge, users can expect:

  1. Up to 20 hours of talk time

  2. Up to 80 hours of audio playback

  3. Up to 12 hours of video playback

  4. Up to 12 hours of internet use

These estimates may vary depending on individual usage patterns, settings, and other factors.


B. Charging options and compatibility


The iPhone 12 Pro Max offers multiple charging options to keep your device powered up and ready for use:

  1. Lightning Connector: The phone includes a Lightning to USB-C cable, which can be connected to a USB-C power adapter (sold separately) for fast and efficient charging.

  2. MagSafe: The iPhone 12 Pro Max is compatible with Apple's MagSafe charging system, allowing for easy wireless charging at up to 15W with MagSafe chargers (sold separately).

  3. Qi Wireless Charging: In addition to MagSafe, the iPhone 12 Pro Max also supports Qi wireless charging at up to 7.5W with compatible Qi chargers (sold separately).

  4. Fast Charging: Using a compatible 20W or higher USB-C power adapter, users can achieve a 50% charge in just 30 minutes.

Please note that the iPhone 12 Pro Max does not come with a charging adapter included in the box. Users will need to purchase a compatible power adapter separately or use an existing adapter they may have from a previous device.


VII. Operating System and Software


A. iOS version and updates


The iPhone 12 Pro Max comes with iOS 14 pre-installed, offering a variety of new features and improvements over previous iOS versions. Some of the key features introduced in iOS 14 include:

  1. App Library: Automatically organizes apps into categories for easier access and management.

  2. Widgets: Allows users to add customizable widgets to their home screen.

  3. Picture-in-Picture: Enables watching videos or using FaceTime while using other apps.

  4. App Clips: Provides access to small, fast-loading app features without needing to download the full app.

Apple is known for its regular software updates, ensuring users receive the latest features, improvements, and security patches. As of the knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, the iPhone 12 Pro Max is expected to receive updates at least through iOS 17.


B. Pre-installed and compatible applications


The iPhone 12 Pro Max comes with a variety of pre-installed applications, including:

  1. Messages

  2. FaceTime

  3. Photos

  4. Camera

  5. Mail

  6. Calendar

  7. Maps

  8. Safari

  9. Siri

  10. App Store

In addition to these pre-installed apps, users can download and install a wide range of third-party applications from the App Store. With millions of apps available, the iPhone 12 Pro Max can be customized to suit each user's unique needs and preferences. Popular app categories include social media, productivity, entertainment, fitness, and games.


VIII. Connectivity and Network


A. NFC support


The iPhone 12 Pro Max is equipped with Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, enabling users to enjoy various contactless features, such as:

  1. Apple Pay: Make secure, contactless payments using your iPhone at compatible point-of-sale terminals.

  2. Data sharing: Quickly share files, contacts, or media with other NFC-enabled devices by simply tapping them together.

  3. Smart home integration: Control compatible smart home devices by tapping your iPhone to an NFC tag.

B. SIM card compatibility and options


The iPhone 12 Pro Max supports dual SIM functionality with a physical nano-SIM card slot and an embedded eSIM. This allows users to:

  1. Use two different phone numbers or carriers on a single device.

  2. Easily switch between personal and work numbers without swapping SIM cards.

  3. Benefit from local rates when traveling abroad by adding a local eSIM plan.

Please note that eSIM availability and support may vary depending on the carrier.


C. Data network and 5G capabilities


The iPhone 12 Pro Max is designed to work on both GSM and CDMA networks, making it compatible with a wide range of carriers, including AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US Cellular, Cricket, Metro, Tracfone, and Mint Mobile, among others.


The iPhone 12 Pro Max also features 5G capabilities, enabling faster download and upload speeds, improved video streaming, smoother online gaming, and enhanced overall network performance. However, actual 5G coverage and speed depend on your carrier's network availability and your location.


IX. Pricing and Availability


A. iPhone 12 Pro Max cost


The iPhone 12 Pro Max, when it was initially launched, had a starting price of $1,099 for the 128GB model. The 256GB and 512GB models were priced higher. However, as newer iPhone models have been introduced, the price of the iPhone 12 Pro Max has dropped. Check the current price of the iPhone 12 Pro Max here.


B. Retailers and online purchasing options


The iPhone 12 Pro Max can be purchased through various channels, including:

  1. Official Apple Stores and the Apple website

  2. Authorized Apple resellers and retail partners

  3. Major electronics retailers, both in-store and online

  4. Online marketplaces, such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart

  5. Carrier stores and websites, like AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, and Verizon

C. Availability by country


The iPhone 12 Pro Max is widely available in many countries around the world. However, availability may vary depending on local market conditions and retail channels. To confirm whether the iPhone 12 Pro Max is available in your country, visit the Apple website, contact your local Apple Store, or inquire with an authorized reseller or your preferred carrier.


X. Subscription Services and Warranty


A. AppleCare and other subscription options

  1. AppleCare+: AppleCare+ is an optional extended warranty and support service available for the iPhone 12 Pro Max. It offers an additional two years of coverage (a total of three years) from the original purchase date, covering hardware repair, software support, and up to two incidents of accidental damage protection (subject to a service fee).

  2. AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss: This plan includes everything in AppleCare+, plus coverage for theft or loss of your iPhone 12 Pro Max, subject to a deductible.

  3. Apple One: Apple One is a subscription bundle that combines multiple Apple services, such as Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, iCloud storage, Apple News+, and Apple Fitness+, at a discounted price.

B. Warranty information and coverage


The iPhone 12 Pro Max comes with a standard one-year limited warranty from Apple. This warranty covers any manufacturing defects and hardware failures under normal use. It does not cover accidental damage, unauthorized modifications, or issues caused by misuse.

The warranty includes:

  1. One-year limited warranty on the iPhone itself

  2. 90 days of complimentary technical support via phone or chat

If you need repairs or support after the initial warranty period, you may be charged for the services. Purchasing AppleCare+ extends the coverage and support period, providing additional peace of mind.


XI. Comparison to Other Models