We weren't expecting a new iPhone announcement at Apple's live event today, so were surprised to learn that the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini are now available in purple! This means that two members of the iPhone 12 lineup can be purchased in six colors: the classic white or black, green, blue, red, and the new lavender shade. Let's go over the pros and cons of springing for Apple's latest eye-catching iPhones.
Related: Apple Announces New Apple TV 4K
Purple iPhone 12 & iPhone 12 Mini Revealed at Apple Announcement Today
Pricing
- iPhone 12: From $799
- iPhone 12 mini: From $699
Availability
- Pre-order Friday, April 23
- Available beginning on Friday, April 30
Apple traditionally announces their new iPhones in the fall. The iPhone 12 family was announced a bit later than usual, but did not disappoint in terms of features along with size and color options. Buyers can spend $699 or more on the smallest of the bunch, the 5.4-inch iPhone 12 mini, all the way up to $1,099 or more for the beefy 6.7-inch iPhone 12 Pro Max. The entire line comes in the traditional black or white, as well as blue, red, green, and now purple for the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini.
To Buy or Not to Buy?
Is it a great idea to purchase a purple iPhone 12 or 12 mini? Both phones include impressive features, including:
- Super Retina XDR display (6.1" for the iPhone 12, 5.4" for the iPhone 12 mini)
- 5G capabilities
- Ultra Wide and Wide camera lenses
- Dolby Vision HDR video recording
- 2X optical zoom range
- A14 Bionic chip
- Water resistance to a depth of up to 6 meters for 30 minutes
- Compatibility with MagSafe accessories and wireless chargers
Despite these capabilities, it stands to reason that the 2021 iPhones, expected to be named the iPhone 13 line, that we expect will be revealed in just six months will be even better. We may see a more powerful Apple Bionic chip, better camera and audio capabilities, improved durability and water resistance, and, yes, an array of attractive color choices. What's more, Apple did their customers right in 2020, keeping the starting cost of the iPhone 12 mini the same as last year's budget model, the iPhone 11. The Pro and Pro Max models in the iPhone 11 and 12 lines were also priced the same, despite the improved features available in Apple's latest models.
So, why buy a purple iPhone 12 with the anticipated iPhone 13 announcement a mere six months away? It would make more sense to wait for the fall and see if Apple raises prices only slightly, or even maintains the trend of keeping prices stable. As an incredibly low-budget option, iPhone owners jonesing for a violet phone can always spring for a new phone case to tide them over until the September announcement.
Despite the drawbacks, many Apple enthusiasts will find the vibrant color and novelty of Apple's latest eye-catching iPhones worth the price. For those who have their heart set on the purple iPhone 12 mini, follow Apple's announcement with care; TechRadar reports that the mini will be discontinued within the year due to poor sales.
We'll be watching sales of the purple iPhone in the coming months to see which wins the day, logic or whimsy. Drop a comment below to let me know if you'll be buying a purple iPhone 12 soon or waiting for the iPhone 13 announcement to make your choice.
