Apple unveiled iPhone 12 family, the new generation of its well known smartphone and the first one enabled for fifth generation mobile networks. The company announced four new models.

Apple CEO Tim Cook hailed the addition of 5G to its handsets as the beginning of a new era for iPhone, saying it will enable new opportunities for developers and users. The iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max all feature a new A14 Bionic chipset Apple billed as the fastest CPU and GPU available in a smartphone.

The phones use a custom antenna and radio system which makes them compatible with more 5G bands than any other smartphone, allowing them to work in more places. Apple optimised its iOS frameworks to allow applications to tap into 5G without using more power, and designed a Smart Data Mode feature which pushes the devices onto 4G when 5G speeds aren’t needed. All four devices also feature a new ceramic display offering improved durability and compatibility with magnetic accessories using Apple’s MagSafe technology.

The 6.1-inch iPhone 12 and 5.4-inch mini come with a dual cameras comprising 12MP wide and ultra-wide lenses. The 6.1-inch Pro and 6.7-inch Pro Max boast a triple set-up with 12MP wide, ultra-wide and telephoto lenses. Apple plans to release the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro in 36 countries from 23 October, priced at $799 (64GB) and $999 (128GB) respectively. The iPhone 12 mini and Pro Max versions are due on sale from 13 November for $699 (64GB) and $1,099 (128GB) respectively.