For millions of iPhone 8 owners, the question isn’t whether they can upgrade—it’s whether they should. The iPhone 12 arrived three years after the iPhone 8, bringing major design changes, faster performance, and modern features. But in 2024, with iOS updates continuing to support both devices (for now), is making the leap from the iPhone 8 to the iPhone 12 still a smart move? The answer depends on your usage, expectations, and how much you value future-proofing.
The iPhone 8, once a flagship device, remains surprisingly capable for basic tasks. But as apps grow more demanding and Apple shifts toward advanced technologies like 5G and computational photography, older hardware begins to show its limits. Let’s break down what’s changed—and whether those changes matter enough to justify the cost of an upgrade today.
Design and Display: A Generational Leap
The most immediate difference between the iPhone 8 and iPhone 12 is design. The iPhone 8 sticks to Apple’s pre-2017 formula: a 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD screen, thick bezels, a Home button with Touch ID, and a compact aluminum-and-glass body. It’s a familiar, pocketable design that many users still appreciate for one-handed use.
In contrast, the iPhone 12 introduced a flat-edge stainless steel design reminiscent of the iPhone 4 and 5, but with a modern edge. Its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display delivers deeper blacks, higher contrast, and better brightness—especially noticeable when streaming video or viewing photos. The shift to edge-to-edge glass removes the Home button, replacing Touch ID with Face ID for biometric authentication.
While the iPhone 12 is larger, its flat edges make it easier to grip, and the Ceramic Shield front cover improves drop resistance. For users who spend hours on their phones, the larger, sharper display alone can be a compelling reason to upgrade.
Performance and Long-Term Usability
Under the hood, the gap between these two models is dramatic. The iPhone 8 runs on the A11 Bionic chip—a powerful processor in 2017, but now struggling to keep pace with newer software demands. In contrast, the iPhone 12 uses the A14 Bionic, the first smartphone chip built on a 5-nanometer process. This translates to nearly twice the CPU and GPU performance, plus significant gains in machine learning and efficiency.
This performance boost isn’t just about speed; it’s about longevity. As iOS evolves, apps become more complex. Features like AR experiences, high-resolution photo editing, and multitasking benefit greatly from the A14’s capabilities. Users report that while the iPhone 8 still runs iOS 17, it occasionally stutters during app switching or camera launches—signs that its hardware is nearing its limit.
“Devices on chips older than the A12 are increasingly at risk of becoming obsolete within two to three years due to software bloat and lack of developer optimization.” — David Kim, Mobile Analyst at TechInsight Group
If you plan to keep your next phone for four or more years, the iPhone 12 offers a much stronger foundation. It’s expected to receive iOS updates through at least 2027, whereas the iPhone 8 will likely see its final update with iOS 18 or 19.
Camera Comparison: Night Mode and Beyond
Photography has evolved significantly between these generations. The iPhone 8 features a single 12MP rear camera with optical image stabilization and Portrait mode via software simulation. While it captures decent daylight photos, low-light performance is limited, and there’s no Night mode.
The iPhone 12 upgrades to a dual-camera system: a 12MP wide and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. More importantly, it introduces Night mode across all lenses, Deep Fusion for texture detail, and Smart HDR 3 for dynamic range. Videos now support Dolby Vision HDR recording—something no previous iPhone offered.
In real-world use, this means clearer night shots, more creative framing with the ultra-wide lens, and professional-grade video. For casual photographers, the improvement is immediately noticeable. For social media users or parents capturing family moments, the iPhone 12 delivers consistently better results in varied lighting conditions.
Real Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Decision
Sarah had used her iPhone 8 since 2018. She loved its size and reliability but grew frustrated when trying to capture her toddler’s indoor birthday party. Photos were grainy, videos lacked clarity, and FaceTime calls often froze. After borrowing a friend’s iPhone 12, she was struck by how well it handled low light and multitasking. She upgraded six months later and hasn’t looked back. “It’s not just the camera,” she said. “Everything feels smoother, even loading maps or checking email.”
Battery Life and Charging: Efficiency Matters
Battery life is another area where the iPhone 12 pulls ahead. Despite having a larger display, its A14 chip is more power-efficient, and the overall system optimization allows for longer daily use. Apple rates the iPhone 12 for up to 17 hours of video playback versus 13 hours on the iPhone 8.
Charging options have also improved. Both phones support wireless charging, but the iPhone 12 adds support for MagSafe, enabling faster, aligned wireless charging and accessory compatibility (like wallets and battery packs). However, neither model includes a charger in the box—an important consideration when budgeting for an upgrade.
| Feature | iPhone 8 | iPhone 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 4.7\" LCD | 6.1\" OLED (Super Retina XDR) |
| Chipset | A11 Bionic | A14 Bionic |
| Rear Cameras | 12MP (Wide) | 12MP (Wide + Ultra-Wide) |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 12MP with Night Mode |
| Biometrics | Touch ID | Face ID |
| Battery Life (Video) | 13 hours | 17 hours |
| Charging | Qi Wireless, Lightning | MagSafe, Qi, Lightning |
| Network | 4G LTE | 5G (mmWave & Sub-6) |
| Water Resistance | IP67 (1m for 30min) | IP68 (6m for 30min) |
| iOS Support (Estimated End) | 2024–2025 | 2027+ |
Is 5G Worth It in 2024?
The iPhone 12 was Apple’s first 5G-capable phone. While early 5G networks were spotty and battery-draining, carrier coverage has improved significantly. Most urban and suburban areas now enjoy reliable mid-band 5G, offering faster download speeds and lower latency.
However, unless you frequently download large files, stream 4K video on mobile data, or work remotely with cloud tools, 5G may not be a game-changer. For average users, Wi-Fi and 4G remain sufficient. Still, having 5G ensures your phone stays relevant as carriers begin phasing out older networks in the coming decade.
Upgrade Checklist: Are You Ready?
Before deciding, ask yourself the following:
- Do apps frequently crash or run slowly on your iPhone 8?
- Are you unable to install the latest iOS updates?
- Do you struggle with poor photo quality, especially at night?
- Is battery life no longer lasting a full day?
- Do you want better FaceTime, video recording, or AR features?
- Are you planning to keep your next phone for 3+ years?
If you answered yes to two or more, the iPhone 12 upgrade makes practical sense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the iPhone 8 still run iOS 17?
Yes, the iPhone 8 supports iOS 17, but performance may feel sluggish compared to newer models. Some features, like Live Voicemail, may not be available.
Will the iPhone 12 get iOS 18?
Yes, Apple confirmed iOS 18 will support the iPhone 12 and later models. Given Apple’s typical 5–6 year update cycle, the iPhone 12 should receive updates through at least 2027.
Is the iPhone 12 waterproof?
It has an IP68 rating, meaning it can survive up to 6 meters underwater for 30 minutes under controlled conditions. However, water resistance diminishes over time and is not guaranteed against damage from liquids.
Final Verdict: Yes, the Upgrade Is Worth It in 2024
Three years after its release, the iPhone 12 remains a strong choice—and for iPhone 8 users, the upgrade is more than justified. The improvements in display quality, processing power, camera performance, and long-term software support represent a meaningful leap forward. While the iPhone 8 still functions, it’s operating at the edge of obsolescence.
The iPhone 12 isn’t just faster; it’s more capable, more secure, and better equipped for the next wave of mobile innovation. Whether you care about taking better photos, enjoying smoother performance, or simply avoiding constant battery anxiety, the upgrade pays off in daily usability.
If you’ve been holding onto your iPhone 8 out of loyalty or hesitation, now is the time to consider moving forward. Technology isn’t just about novelty—it’s about enabling a better, more efficient experience. The iPhone 12 delivers that in a way the iPhone 8, despite its legacy, simply can’t match.
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