Editor's Message
I Bought an iPhone 12 Pro—What about You?
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted nearly every area of our lives, and Apple tech is no exception. Due to coronavirus-related production delays, for the first time ever Apple announced new iPads and Apple Watches before debuting the iPhone 12 series in an uncharacteristic October event.
Despite setbacks, Apple has delivered new iPhones with 5G support as their flagship feature. 5G promises near real-time streaming and communication and incredibly fast download speeds in regions with a 5G network (see page 10 for details). Improved cameras for low-light and portrait photography, OLED displays, and a flat-edged design are all hallmarks of the new iPhone lineup as well. In October, Apple also added the HomePod mini to its roster, the $100 evolution of its smart speaker. September brought an update to the classic iPad as well as a fourth-gen iPad Air with many features of the Pro but at a more affordable price point (page 14). We also got an Apple Watch Series 6, which contributor Hannah Nichols was able to spend time with and report back on features like the blood oxygen sensor and Solo Loop watch band (see page 18).
On the Fence about What to Buy? We’ve Done Your Homework for You.
With fewer social gatherings and trips to look forward to, dreaming about your next Apple purchase is a nice substitute. If you're pondering your next purchase, I think you'll find our iNews section (page 8) to be a helpful guide to the new lineup. Our coverage helped me decide to upgrade to the iPhone 12 Pro, because I was eager to experience 5G speeds (whenever I'm in areas with network coverage) and take better portrait photos to help promote my podcast. As I write this, I'm testing out my silver 12 Pro, which just arrived in the mail yesterday. I'm surprised at how elegant the flat-edged design and chrome chassis look and how much I'm enjoying that little bit of extra display the design affords without adding any bulk compared to my 11 Pro. I also noticed an astonishing improvement in the camera quality! The depth-sensing capability in Portrait mode and the look and tone of Night Mode are all blowing the 11 Pro out of the water.
If you're looking for new gadgets to use with your phone, our annual Buyer's Guide (page 23) will be just the ticket. For months, our editorial team has been testing cases, headphones, speakers, smart home products, and more to bring you our tried-and-true favorites. We won't recommend anything we can't personally vouch for!