In a world where smartphones keep getting bigger, the iPhone 12 Mini dared to go small—and won the hearts of many. Compact, powerful, and stylish, it stood out for those who didn’t want a phone that doubled as a tablet. But now, with Apple officially discontinuing it, you might be wondering: Should I buy the iPhone 12 Mini even after its discontinuing announcement?
Let’s break it down. In this article, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of purchasing the iPhone 12 Mini in 2025, examine its current relevance, discuss performance, value, and support, and help you decide whether it’s still worth your money.
Why Was the iPhone 12 Mini Discontinued?
First, let’s address the elephant in the room: Apple has officially stopped producing the iPhone 12 Mini, and it’s no longer available through its main retail channels. So, why did Apple pull the plug?
The simple answer is sales.
Although the iPhone 12 Mini was praised by critics and loved by those craving a smaller phone, it made up only a small percentage of iPhone sales overall. Most people preferred larger displays, especially with the rise of content consumption, mobile gaming, and multitasking.
Still, Apple’s decision doesn’t make the iPhone 12 Mini obsolete—it just means it’s more of a niche product. And for many users, that niche is exactly what makes it perfect.
Is It Still a Good Phone in 2025?
Despite being a few generations old, the iPhone 12 Mini remains a very capable device. Here’s a quick look at its core features:
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Display: 5.4-inch Super Retina XDR OLED (yes, it’s small, but stunning)
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Processor: A14 Bionic chip (still fast by today’s standards)
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Camera: Dual 12MP system with Night Mode, 4K Dolby Vision HDR recording
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Design: Lightweight, flat-edged design with aluminum and glass
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5G Support: Yes, it supports modern networks
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iOS Updates: Eligible for several more years of software updates
In short: This phone might be “discontinued,” but it’s far from outdated.
Pros of Buying the iPhone 12 Mini Today
1. Compact Design That’s Easy to Handle
One of the biggest reasons to buy the iPhone 12 Mini is its form factor. If you’re tired of phones that barely fit in your pocket or require two hands for everything, this is a breath of fresh air.
It’s ideal for:
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People with smaller hands
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Those who prefer one-handed use
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Minimalists who want portability over screen real estate
2. High-End Features in a Small Package
Unlike other “mini” or budget phones on the market, the iPhone 12 Mini doesn’t compromise on performance. It has the same A14 Bionic chip as the larger iPhone 12, excellent camera features, and premium build quality.
It’s essentially a flagship phone—just more compact.
3. Still Receives iOS Updates
Apple typically supports iPhones with software updates for 5–6 years. Since the iPhone 12 series was released in late 2020, you can reasonably expect support until at least 2026–2027. That means you’ll still get the latest features, security patches, and app compatibility for years to come.
4. Lower Price Tag
One major upside of buying a discontinued model is the price drop. While brand-new models can cost well over $1,000, the iPhone 12 Mini is now available from third-party retailers and certified resellers at a fraction of the cost.
You could score a fantastic deal for a phone that still performs like a champ.
Cons to Consider Before Buying the iPhone 12 Mini
1. Smaller Battery Life
Let’s be real—battery life is where the iPhone 12 Mini takes a hit. Due to its compact size, it houses a smaller battery, which may not last an entire day under heavy use.
If you’re someone who:
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Streams videos for hours
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Games frequently
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Works remotely on your phone
…you might find the battery life a bit limiting. However, light to moderate users will find it manageable, especially with fast charging and MagSafe accessories.
2. Discontinued = Limited Availability
While you can still buy the iPhone 12 Mini from places like Amazon, Best Buy, and certified refurbished programs, it may become harder to find over time—especially in new or unused condition.
Also, as time goes on, getting OEM replacement parts might become more difficult, though Apple does offer repair support for years after discontinuation.
3. No Face ID Improvements or New Camera Tech
Compared to the latest iPhones, the iPhone 12 Mini may lack the newest features like:
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Dynamic Island
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Improved Night Mode
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ProMotion (120Hz display refresh)
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Better front-facing camera sensors
However, if those aren’t deal-breakers for you, the differences may not matter much in day-to-day use.
Who Should Still Buy the iPhone 12 Mini?
The iPhone 12 Mini might not be for everyone—but for the right person, it’s a perfect match. You should consider buying it if you:
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Want a small phone that’s easy to carry and operate
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Prefer Apple’s ecosystem but don’t need the absolute latest model
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Are budget-conscious and want good value without sacrificing quality
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Use your phone mainly for calls, messaging, web browsing, and light apps
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Appreciate timeless design and portability
On the other hand, if you’re a power user who needs the latest tech, big screen, or ultra-long battery life, you might be better off with a newer iPhone or even the iPhone SE 3rd Gen (which shares some internal features with a home button design).
Buying Tips: What to Look for in 2025
If you’ve decided to go for it, here are some tips to ensure you get the best iPhone 12 Mini experience:
✅ Buy from a Trusted Source
Go with reputable retailers or certified refurbished programs like:
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Apple Certified Refurbished Store
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Amazon Renewed
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Best Buy Geek Squad Certified
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Swappa or Back Market (for used phones)
✅ Check for Battery Health
Ask or check the battery health percentage. Anything above 85% is considered good for a used device. Replacing the battery later can cost extra.
✅ Confirm Software Compatibility
Make sure the phone is unlocked and compatible with your carrier. Since it supports 5G, you’ll be covered for modern networks.
✅ Consider Storage Needs
The base model comes with 64GB, which may not be enough for heavy app or photo users. If you can find the 128GB or 256GB version at a good price, it’s worth it.
Alternatives to the iPhone 12 Mini in 2025
If you love the idea of a compact iPhone but want something newer or longer-supported, here are a few alternatives:
1. iPhone SE 3rd Gen (2022)
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Similar size
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Uses the A15 Bionic chip
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Home button with Touch ID
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Budget-friendly
2. iPhone 13 Mini (if still available)
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Better battery than the 12 Mini
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Improved cameras and brighter display
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Longer software support timeline
3. iPhone 15 / iPhone 16 (current models)
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For users who want the latest features and don’t mind larger phones
Final Verdict: Is the iPhone 12 Mini Still Worth It?
The iPhone 12 Mini may be discontinued, but that doesn’t mean it’s irrelevant. It offers excellent performance, a premium feel, and a user-friendly experience in a refreshingly compact form. For light users, students, travelers, and those who just don’t want a giant phone, it remains a smart choice—especially at its current price point.
However, keep your expectations in check when it comes to battery life and feature updates. If you’re okay with a few trade-offs, the iPhone 12 Mini can still be one of the best bang-for-your-buck smartphones in 2025.
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