Apple unveils four new iPhone 12 models with 5G connectivity

 Apple on Tuesday unveiled its latest next-generation iPhone, the 5G-enabled iPhone 12, which its CEO, Tim Cook, hailed as a "new era" in wireless connectivity.

Apple released four iPhone 12 models, including the smaller and cheaper iPhone 12 mini, and the larger iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max series featuring upgraded cameras and screen sizes.

All of the models are equipped with 5G connectivity and include a new processing chip, the A14 Bionic, which Apple claims is up to 50% faster than any other smartphone processor.

The iPhone 12, which costs 799 dollars (680 euros) in the US, has the same screen size as the iPhone 11, but the body is 11% thinner and 16% lighter, said Kaiann Drance, vice president of iPhone marketing.

The iPhone 12 mini is the "the smallest, thinnest and lightest 5G smartphone in the world," said Apple, while the 17-centimetre Pro Max screen claims the spot as Apple's largest-ever iPhone screen.

The new iPhone series is a major step towards switching wireless usage from 4G to 5G in the United States and globally.

5G in early stages

5G is the latest generation in telecommunications networks and is expected to usher in a new era of wireless data speeds.

However, many iPhone 12 users will not be using 5G networks, as it's still in the early stages of being rolled out.

Apple is also not in the forefront of 5G-enabled devices, with Samsung, Huawei, Motorola and OnePlus all launching 5G phones.

The iPhone 12 is the company's first major overhaul of the signature smartphone since the iPhone X in 2017.

In September, Apple released new versions of the iPad and entertainment subscriptions, however, the company delayed iPhone news until October because of the coronavirus pandemic.