The Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max is more than just a smartphone—it’s a technological marvel that redefined what premium mobile experiences should feel like. Launched in late 2020, this flagship from Apple’s 12th-generation iPhone lineup still holds its ground in the Australian market in 2025. With its top-tier performance, superb camera system, expansive Super Retina XDR display, and a premium stainless-steel design, it remains a popular choice among Aussie tech enthusiasts. This article explores the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max features, performance, camera capabilities, design, battery life, and availability across Australia.
Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max Overview
When Apple introduced the iPhone 12 Pro Max, it immediately became the benchmark for all other flagship phones. Sporting a 6.7-inch display, the largest ever in an iPhone at the time, and equipped with the powerful A14 Bionic chip, this device was built for users who demand nothing but the best. The phone also marked a significant shift with the introduction of 5G support, Ceramic Shield front cover, and a LiDAR scanner for advanced AR experiences.
Design and Build Quality
The iPhone 12 Pro Max is undeniably luxurious. It features a flat-edge design, reminiscent of the iPhone 4 and 5 series, which appeals to fans of both classic and modern aesthetics. The phone is built with surgical-grade stainless steel edges and a matte-textured back glass, offering both strength and a premium finish.
Its large form factor at 160.8 x 78.1 x 7.4 mm may not suit every hand, but it provides an immersive experience for media consumption. Available in elegant finishes—Graphite, Silver, Gold, and Pacific Blue—it continues to turn heads in 2025.
Display: Super Retina XDR Brilliance
One of the most striking features of the iPhone 12 Pro Max is its 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With a resolution of 2778 x 1284 pixels and HDR10 support, the display is perfect for streaming 4K videos, gaming, and photo editing.
Apple’s True Tone and wide colour (P3) technologies ensure that every image on the screen appears natural and vibrant. The Ceramic Shield front is not only tougher than previous generations but also offers better drop performance—ideal for active Australian lifestyles.
Camera System: A Photographer’s Dream
The iPhone 12 Pro Max was Apple’s most advanced camera system upon its release and remains impressive even years later. It includes a triple-lens setup:
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12 MP Ultra Wide
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12 MP Wide with sensor-shift optical image stabilization (OIS)
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12 MP Telephoto lens
This setup is complemented by a LiDAR scanner, which significantly improves low-light photography and AR experiences.
Night mode, Deep Fusion, Smart HDR 3, and Apple ProRAW all come together to deliver professional-grade photography. Whether you’re snapping beach shots in Bondi or capturing sunsets in Perth, the results are consistently stunning.
Video recording is just as exceptional, with support for HDR video with Dolby Vision at up to 60 fps—something many Android rivals still struggle to match. This makes the 12 Pro Max a content creator’s ally.
Performance: A14 Bionic and iOS Harmony
Powered by the A14 Bionic chip, the iPhone 12 Pro Max was the first iPhone built on a 5nm architecture. Even in 2025, this chip handles everyday tasks, multitasking, and intensive gaming like a breeze.
Combined with 6GB of RAM and seamless integration with iOS, the phone offers a smooth, lag-free experience. Whether you’re editing 4K videos, managing business apps, or playing graphics-heavy games like Call of Duty Mobile, the 12 Pro Max delivers unmatched efficiency.
iOS 17 updates are still compatible with the device, which means Aussie users can continue enjoying new features like smarter widgets, enhanced privacy options, and AI-integrated services.
Battery Life and Charging
With a 3,687mAh battery, the iPhone 12 Pro Max can easily last a full day even with heavy use. Apple’s power management, combined with the efficiency of the A14 chip, ensures great screen-on time.
Fast charging support (up to 20W) means you can get up to 50% charge in about 30 minutes using a compatible charger. The phone also supports MagSafe wireless charging, a system introduced with the iPhone 12 series, offering a convenient way to snap on chargers and accessories.
In Australia, where long commutes and mobile working are common, this reliability in battery life is a significant plus.
5G Connectivity in Australia
Australia’s 5G infrastructure has grown significantly over the past few years, and the iPhone 12 Pro Max was one of the first Apple devices to support this evolution. Whether you’re in metro Sydney, downtown Melbourne, or even semi-rural areas like Ballarat or Toowoomba, 5G access is increasingly available.
This allows for faster downloads, high-definition streaming, and smoother video calls. If you’re a Telstra, Optus, or Vodafone customer, the iPhone 12 Pro Max takes full advantage of Australia’s developing 5G networks.
Face ID, Privacy, and Security
Face ID continues to be a secure and convenient way to unlock the device, authenticate apps, and make payments via Apple Pay. Apple also ensures your data stays private, with features like on-device Siri processing and App Tracking Transparency.
In a time when digital security is paramount, the iPhone 12 Pro Max offers Aussie users peace of mind and control over their personal information.
Storage Options and Pricing in Australia
The iPhone 12 Pro Max is available in three storage capacities: 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. This variety ensures there’s a model suitable for everyone—from casual users to professionals handling large video and photo files.
As of mid-2025, prices for the iPhone 12 Pro Max in Australia (brand new or refurbished) are approximately:
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128GB – Around AUD $1,099 to $1,299
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256GB – Around AUD $1,299 to $1,499
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512GB – Around AUD $1,499 to $1,699
Prices vary depending on condition (new vs. refurbished), retailer, and available promotions. It’s often available through online platforms like JB Hi-Fi, The Good Guys, Amazon Australia, and Apple’s own certified refurbished store.
Accessories and Ecosystem Integration
The iPhone 12 Pro Max works seamlessly within Apple’s broader ecosystem. Pair it with:
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Apple Watch for fitness and notifications
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AirPods Pro for spatial audio and calls
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MacBook or iPad for Handoff and Universal Clipboard
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MagSafe accessories for wallet attachments and fast charging
Australian consumers appreciate the interconnectedness of Apple devices, and the 12 Pro Max fits perfectly into this lifestyle-enhancing network.
Where to Buy iPhone 12 Pro Max in Australia
You can find the iPhone 12 Pro Max across multiple platforms in Australia, including:
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Apple Refurbished Store
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JB Hi-Fi
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The Good Guys
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Kogan
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Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone (pre-owned or refurbished models)
For the best deals, especially on refurbished models, check local electronics retailers or certified online marketplaces. These options often include warranties and after-sales support.
Conclusion
Absolutely. The Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max continues to deliver flagship-level performance and features in 2025. Whether you’re a photographer, content creator, business professional, or someone who values durability and design, this device checks all the boxes.
For Australians looking for a high-end iPhone experience without paying the premium of newer models, the iPhone 12 Pro Max is still a smart and stylish choice.
FAQs
Q: Is the iPhone 12 Pro Max still available to buy new in Australia?
A: Yes, although stocks may be limited. You can find new or refurbished units at major retailers and online stores.
Q: Is the iPhone 12 Pro Max good for photography in 2025?
A: Yes, its triple-camera system with LiDAR still delivers excellent results, especially in low-light settings.
Q: Does the iPhone 12 Pro Max support 5G in Australia?
A: Absolutely. It supports sub-6GHz 5G, which is widely available across Australia’s metro and growing regional areas.
Q: How does it compare to newer iPhones?
A: While newer iPhones offer incremental improvements, the 12 Pro Max still provides top-tier performance and value.
Q: Can I trade in my iPhone 12 Pro Max in Australia?
A: Yes. Apple and several retailers offer trade-in programs, though values vary based on condition and storage.
