As society learns and changes, more brands are beginning to look at sustainability for the future. Casetify is one brand that is blazing trails and setting the example. From sustainable manufacturing and packaging to compostable products, Casetify is doing it right.

The Casetify Compostable Case is exactly what it claims to be: a plant-based case that is 100% compostable. The simple case comes in seven colors and you can even have it custom-printed with eco-friendly inks. Despite the fact that the case is biodegradable, it is surprisingly sturdy and protective. In fact, I only had one small complaint with this case, and I'll go into all of those details below. 

CASETiFY Compostable Case: Price and availability

Casetify products are long-established and popular among iPhone users. You can find them on Amazon as well as other major retailers like Walmart and Best Buy. If you'd like to custom-print your case, however, you'll want to order directly from the Casetify official website. Here, you can choose different shades of ink and preview how your iPhone will look with the custom-printed case. It's a nifty system that's actually pretty fun to play around with before you decide to buy. 

CASETiFY Compostable Case: Sustainable in every way

Before going into all of the environmental benefits of a biodegradable case, I'd like to say that this is actually a really good case aside from its compostability. The plant-based material is pliable and grippy to the touch, but very tough. It's rated with 4-foot drop protection, but I think that it could withstand much more because of the raised edges around the screen and camera, along with the extra layer of cushion around each corner. 

Although the case is plain and simple in design, the speckled texture and matte finish give it a little something extra. If you add a custom print, it will be even more visually unique and interesting. For the purposes of this review, I kept mine in its original unprinted form. 

The Casetify Compostable Case is made with a "proprietary blend of biopolymers, starch, and bamboo," according to Casetify, and these materials break down into their natural elements when left in a compost heap. No toxins will be left behind after it decomposes, not even from the inks. I find this so impressive in today's society of plastic everything, and I hope to see more companies offering this type of innovation for everyday consumer goods. 

Finally, I like to support Casetify with my business because they do a lot more for the environment than making a compostable iPhone case. Their production facilities are ISO14001-certified for minimal environmental impact, and they use simple rainwater collection and recycling processes as well. All Casetify packaging is made with recycled and recyclable materials, right down to the eco-friendly inks they use for printing. When it comes to conscious consumerism, Casetify makes it easy. 

CASETiFY Compostable Case: No room for oopsies

There's really not a lot to complain about with the Casetify Compostable Case. The only thing I noticed is that, although the plant-based material is plenty durable and protective, it does seem to absorb grime. When my son spilled juice next to the case, it absorbed the purple color; I found it to be pretty difficult to scrub out the stain. The same is true for dirt and grime; the case seems to become stained easily and can be difficult to clean. Because of this, my suggestion would be to choose a darker color for the case so that stains don't show as much. 

CASETiFY Compostable Case: Competition

Although there are several eco-friendly cases arriving onto the market, the most established brand is Pela. Like the Casetify Compostable Case, the Pela Case is also plant-based and biodegradable. As we mentioned in our review of the Pela Case, the brand offers a lot of cute designs, some of which you can have engraved, but they do not offer custom prints. Pela cases are slightly more expensive than Casetify, but also a bit less protective. This makes Casetify the better deal in my opinion. 

CASETiFY Compostable Case: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if...

• You like to support sustainable businesses.
• You're trying to reduce plastic use.
• You want a custom-printed case.

You shouldn't buy this if...

• You have a messy job or hobby that will stain up your iPhone case.

For conscious consumers everywhere, a product like Casetify's Compostable Case is a no-brainer. Not only are you reducing plastic usage, but you also know that you'll be receiving the product in sustainable packaging that can be recycled or composted. The case comes in seven colors so it can be purchased to suit most tastes, although if you work in a messy environment or live with kids, I suggest purchasing a darker shade that won't show stains as easily.

The Compostable Case will also make a great gift for someone who loves the planet, especially since it's customizable. I know plenty of people who'd be thrilled to see their name or initials printed on their iPhone case! Overall, this is a common-sense product from a sustainable brand that I'm happy to support. It's a feel-good purchase. 

With the iPhone 12 series, including the iPhone 12 Pro Max, one of the standout features is MagSafe. With the MagSafe ecosystem, you have a ring of magnets on the back of the iPhone, thus opening up an entirely new world of possibilities for iPhone accessories, as they can easily attach by the power of magnetic force.

There are plenty of cool MagSafe accessories out there, from chargers, battery packs, wallets, stands, and so much more. But if you want the best experience for MagSafe, you're going to need a MagSafe-compatible iPhone 12 Pro Max case. Here are our current favorites.

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With the best MagSafe iPhone 12 Pro Max cases, you ensure that your favorite iPhone is safe and protected without sacrificing MagSafe functionality. After all, you paid big bucks to go big, so why hinder it? With these cases, you won't need to take the case off to use your MagSafe charger or accessories like the best MagSafe wallets, stands, and even the Apple MagSafe battery pack — everything will work flawlessly.

If you want some recommendations, you can't go wrong with Apple's Silicone or Leather Case with MagSafe. The Silicone one comes in great pops of color, is soft to the touch, and looks great. The Leather cases are made with high-quality leather and develop a gorgeous patina over time, so they get better the more you use them.

Another good leather pick comes from Nomad with the Rugged Leather Case or Rugged Folio, depending on your needs. These are made with a rich Horween leather that will age over time, giving it a fantastic distressed look. The Rugged Folio has three card slots and a cash stash pocket, and the flap for your cards will also protect the front screen.

Other great options to consider are OtterBox's Aneu or Symmetry Series+ cases. These are slimmer than the Defender Series the brand is known for but still offer top-notch protection. They also come in a nice handful of colors, so there's one for everyone. I'd also recommend Incipio's Grip for MagSafe because it's great for those with butterfingers like me who are constantly dropping their device — this case alleviates that problem! It also looks nice and minimalistic too.

And if you want something more affordable, Spigen's Mag Armor case is another fine choice. We like Spigen's very protective offerings; they come in many options and are always affordable, especially if you're on a budget.

As the third product I've tried from Bluebonnet, the Leather Card Case lives up to the high standard I've come to expect from the small Texas-based studio. Bluebonnet designs beautifully made leather accessories for Apple products. Its product designers travel the world to source materials and their leather comes from some of the best tanneries in Europe and Mexico. You can tell as soon as you touch and smell the leather that this is the good stuff.

The card case functions as a simple wallet case with two slots that serve to hold cards, IDs, or cash. It can hold two cards and some cash at one time. There is also a finger loop (in Bluebonnet's signature cerulean shade of blue) to help you keep the case in hand and, of course, to improve selfie angles. Upon first glance, it's an excellently made and fine-looking case. After several weeks of use, here are my initial impressions of the Bluebonnet Leather Card Case:

Bluebonnet Leather Card Case: Price and availability

Bluebonnet operates out of a small studio in Austin, Texas, and the brand remains relatively exclusive. Right now you can only purchase its tech accessories on the official Bluebonnet website. This leather card case goes for $68 and it's available in two shades of leather. If it goes on sale, we'll be sure to list it in the iMore Deals section.

Bluebonnet Leather Card Case: Quality construction with a side of patina

From the moment you take this case out of the box, you can appreciate the look and feel of the fine leather. It is buttery smooth with a warm sienna hue. The letter "B" is imprinted onto the case in a style that is reminiscent of ranch brands and the leather even smells like luxury. The inside of the case is lined with silky microfiber to protect the glass surfaces of your iPhone and the buttons are encased in bright copper-hued steel. The bumper around the camera is also surrounded by this metallic shine. All of this combines to create a striking and elegant case.

The case is well-made and sturdy, with two snug pockets that keep cards and cash firmly in place on the back panel of the case. I never had any problem with cards slipping out or shifting during use. Because of the simple, slim design, the case looks just as nice without any cards at all. You can carry it as a normal case when you don't need to use the card slots. The cotton finger loop adds to the functionality of the case, helping you to grip, text one-handed, and hold the iPhone at the perfect angle for a selfie. I enjoy the bright blue shade of the loop, which is Bluebonnet's trademark color.

Even after only a few weeks of use, the leather has started to develop a slight patina. I can see that it will bloom into my own individual leather story over time, reflecting my habits of use. This is the beauty of genuine leather. As for protection, the raised edges around the screen and camera are doing their job so far. After a few bumps and drops, my iPhone 12 Pro Max remains well-protected and secure inside this case. Finally, despite its fine leather construction and protective elements, this is one of the thinner card cases I've seen. It is slim and sleek by design.

Bluebonnet Leather Card Case: Can I get that in coral?

There's not much to complain about the Bluebonnet Leather Card Case. The construction, materials, and functionality are all on-point. Since I like to personalize my products, I think it would be nice if Bluebonnet offered the cotton finger loop in different colors. Yes, I know that Bluebonnet blue is the brand's signature color, but that loop would sure would look slick in coral, that's all I'm saying.

It would also be nice if the case offered MagSafe compatibility since this is a feature I use daily, but I realize it would be hard to pull off with a card wallet built into the back. I hear that Bluebonnet is working to design a new line of cases that do incorporate MagSafe, so I'm looking forward to seeing what the brand comes up with. If this case had MagSafe, it would be just about perfect.

Bluebonnet Leather Card Case: Competition

While there are plenty of card cases you can buy for the iPhone 12 Pro Max, few of them are made with fine genuine leather. One similar example is the Bullstrap Portfolio iPhone Case, also made by a small American company. This one features a similar two-card design, crafted out of full-grain leather. The Bullstrap case looks to be of similar quality and craftsmanship as the Bluebonnet case, although it does not include a finger loop. It's also a bit more expensive than Bluebonnet at $79, so choosing between the two will depend on your budget.

Bluebonnet Leather Card Case: Should you buy it?

• You love the look and feel of genuine leather.
• You appreciate fine craftsmanship.
• You want to combine your wallet and iPhone into one unit.

• You don't like the color blue.
• You need MagSafe compatibility.

For anyone who appreciates the luxurious look and feel of genuine leather, this case is a beautiful example of quality and craftsmanship. The full-grain leather is smooth, the microfiber lining is silky soft, and the stretchy cotton loop is a fun pop of cerulean blue. Then there are the metallic copper-colored details, such as the clicky steel button covers. To top it off, the card slots on the back are nice and snug, keeping cards and cash secure, although they look fine when they are empty as well. All of this culminates in a beautiful leather case that will only get better with time.

MagSafe was my favorite update to the iPhone 12 in 2020 and I use this feature on a daily basis. The main problem with the MagSafe system, however, is that the Apple MagSafe accessories are pricey, to put it mildly. I personally couldn't justify buying an Apple Leather Wallet for my iPhone 12 Pro Max, but when I saw that Casetify's more affordable MagSafe wallet was also customizable, I was sold.

The Casetify version can be custom-printed with any initials or name up to nine characters. You could even have it printed with a cutesy word like "Love" if you're one of those types. I chose my own initials in an elegant serif font and was quite pleased with the results. Of course, nothing is perfect, and I have one complaint that applies to all MagSafe accessories, but we can get into that later.

Casetify Custom MagSafe Wallet: Price and availability

The only place you can customize your Casetify MagSafe Wallet is on the official Casetify website. They have each product page set up so that you can preview the printed wallet in different colors and fonts. It's very straightforward and easy to use. If you don't care to customize the wallet, then you can also purchase a blank one on Amazon. It costs the same price of $40 on either website. On both sites, it also comes in four colors: black, Latte, light pink, and Oat Milk.

Casetify Custom MagSafe Wallet: Customizable, high-quality, and sustainable to boot

To start, you can count on Casetify for a good quality product. I have used a few of their cases and I always find them to be both cute and durable. This MagSafe wallet is no different. It's made from full-grain faux leather that looks and feels like the real thing. The print is done perfectly, just like the preview on the website and after several months of use, it has not faded or peeled at all. The internal magnet works like a charm with MagSafe; it snaps right into place on the back of my iPhone, whether it's naked or dressed in a MagSafe Case. I give this case an A+ on quality and looks.

Since it does attach magnetically, one might worry that this will affect magnetic strips on credit cards, but it does not. The magnets are credit card approved and haven't affected any of my cards. The wallet is also protected against RFID signals, so you don't have to worry about anyone using RFID to steal your info through the MagSafe wallet.

I also love that Casetify is working to integrate environmental conservation into all of its products and practices. This wallet is made from PC leather and 50% of that material comes from recycled plastic. The Casetify MagSafe Wallet is also produced in a production facility that is ISO14001-certified for using rainwater collection, recycling systems, and other sustainable practices. A big win in my book!

Casetify Custom MagSafe Wallet: The problem with MagSafe

My primary complaint about this wallet is the same complaint I have with all MagSafe accessories. The magnets just aren't quite strong enough. The same is true for my MagSafe mounts and chargers as well. The iPhone should not detach so easily! In the case of this wallet, it has come detached in my purse a few times and once in my back pocket. I think this is part of a bigger problem within the MagSafe system overall for the iPhone 12 series, but I have heard that the MagSafe magnets are stronger in the iPhone 13 series and beyond.

Lastly, I feel like the wallet pocket is a tad bit too deep. You have to insert at least two cards for a tight fit, because one card alone may stand the risk of falling out. I usually throw in two cards along with some cash, so it's not really a problem, but I wouldn't advise carrying this wallet around with only one card inside; it could easily slip out.

Casetify Custom MagSafe Wallet: Competition

The competition here is pretty obvious. Apple's Leather Wallet with MagSafe has a similar form factor and color selection. It works in the same way as the Casetify wallet, but it's much more expensive. $59 is a lot of money for such a small accessory, even if the Apple wallet is genuine leather. Since the Casetify wallet is almost $20 cheaper and comes with cute customization options, I think the Casetify MagSafe Wallet is the better deal.

Casetify Custom MagSafe Wallet: Should you buy it?

• You want to do away with the clutter in your life.
• You like to customize your accessories.
• You prefer to support sustainable brands.

• You only plan to carry one card.
• The occasional accidental detachment is a dealbreaker.

If you're looking for a more affordable alternative to the Apple Leather Wallet with MagSafe, here is an attractive MagSafe wallet that has a similar form factor and high-quality vegan leather. The custom print adds a level of individuality so you can make this wallet pop with your own look and color scheme. The pocket fits up to three cards and cash, so it's just enough room to replace your wallet for a night out, but tread carefully if you slide it into your back pocket; it may come detached from the iPhone. Finally, you can feel good about buying from Casetify, since they use sustainable materials and eco-friendly production processes.

Since I'm a notorious electronics nerd, I gave up on keeping my bedside table organized a long time ago. My husband and I were swimming in cables between earbuds, laptops, iPhones, Apple Watches, and iPads. Well, he's still swimming in cables, sadly, but my bedside table is suddenly looking very neat indeed. That's because NYTSTND created a simple, elegant solution to multi-device charging—the NYSTND QUAD charging station.

This simple tray-shaped wireless charging dock can charge up to four devices at once, offering several wireless charging pads and one wired charging connector for the iPad. A dedicated magnetic charger for the Apple Watch supports Nightstand Mode, and you can choose either a Lightning or USB-C connector for charging the iPad upright. With this small tray on my nightstand, I can charge everything on one tidy, cable-free dock. Needless to say, my corner of the bedroom is looking much more organized. I might like to improve a couple of things about this product, but more on that later. First, the pros and cons:

NYTSTND QUAD: Price and availability

The NYTSTND QUAD is a relatively new product, so right now, it's only available on the official NYTSND website. The smaller QUAD charging station goes at a standard price of $229, although I have seen it go on sale for as low as $195. When it goes on promotion, we'll list it in the iMore Deals section. If you prefer a larger charging station with extra room for other important objects like keys and wallets, you can buy the larger QUAD TRAY that comes with an extended organizational tray.

NYTSTND QUAD: The uncluttered charging experience

The first thing that stands out about the NYSTND QUAD is its simple contoured design. The modern lines and 'form follows function' aesthetic make this product look so neat and organized as it charges multiple devices at once. I chose the slate gray design since it goes nicely with my decor, but I have to admit the oak version is absolutely gorgeous. The design is also streamlined and easy to use. All of the charging pads came with it, so there was no need to thread an Apple Watch charger through it or anything like that. Everything was assembled and ready to use, right out of the box.

Using the NYSTND QUAD is pretty intuitive. It comes with an instruction booklet that I just took a quick glance at. You basically just plug it in, and it's ready to go. There is a removable iPad support that you can insert or remove as needed for easy portability. This is one way to travel without taking along all those cables. Since the smaller QUAD is so compact and lightweight, you can pack it into a small bag and take it as an easy all-in-one charging solution on the go.

This charging station is also MagSafe-compatible, so my iPhone 12 Pro Max snaps right into place when I place it on the charging pad. A little blue light turns on when it's connected to let me know it's charging. I appreciate MagSafe compatibility because I know it aligns the iPhone into the optimal charging position, and it keeps the phone firmly in place even if the charging dock gets bumped or jostled. Other non-MagSafe devices, like my earbuds charging case, can also be charged easily on the charging pad. There are two blue LED lights to indicate that both devices are charging at once.

The built-in magnetic charger for the Apple Watch is vertically aligned, so it props the Apple Watch up as it charges, This is convenient if you use NightStand mode on the Apple Watch since it will display the time as long as it's attached to the charger. In NightStand mode, the Apple Watch will also brighten and light up in the minutes before the alarm goes off, so it's convenient if you're using your Apple Watch as an alarm clock.

Finally, the iPad charging connector is built-in with a support that works to hold the iPad in an upright position as it charges. This works fine to charge the iPad and hold it in place, and you can choose between a Lightning or a USB-C connector when you order the NYTSTND QUAD. The only problem with the iPad charging connector is that it doesn't work with some types of cases, which brings me to the next section.

NYTSTND QUAD: The big iPad case quandary

Since my kids use my iPad, I have it protected with a pretty hefty case. Unfortunately, this thick case makes it impossible to charge the iPad on the NYSTND QUAD while the case is installed. The little lightning connector simply isn't long enough to plug into the lightning port through the case, so I have to remove it in order to charge the iPad on the NYTSTND. The case is pretty easy to take on and off, but it's still a small annoyance. I'm not sure how the NYTSTND product designers could fix this, or if it's a common problem for other users, but it would be nice if the lightning connecter was a little longer to charge through a thick, bulky case.

One solution to this problem might be extra charging ports along the side of the device. I have seen other charging stations that include a few extra charging ports along the side to plug in even more devices. If the NYTSTND included some extra ports, I could plug my iPad into one and charge it with a cable while continuing to use the iPad support to prop it up. This would also work to charge additional devices that do not support wireless charging, such as my kids' headphones. Although plugging in extra cables might defeat the lovely cable-less decluttered look that this device hopes to achieve, it would be a convenient addition for those moments when you have even more than four devices to charge at once.

NYTSTND QUAD: Competition

Although the NYTSTND QUAD is certainly not the only multi-device charging station on the market, it is one of the few with MagSafe compatibility. For example, the Scosche BaseLynx Modular Charging System Pro Kit is very similar in design and features, but it does not have that handy MagSafe magnet for optimized charging. Like the NYTSTND QUAD, however, the Scosche BaseLynx can charge the Apple Watch, the iPhone, and the iPad all the same time. This one also allows you to add additional wireless charging pads to charge as many devices as needed. The design is not as attractive and elegant as the NYTSTND, but the Scosche does solve many of the same organizational problems.

NYTSTND QUAD: Should you buy it?

• You're tired of multiple tangled charging cables.
• You need to charge four devices at once.
• You appreciate modern, elegant design.

• You keep a big, bulky case on your iPad, and you don't want to remove it in order to charge.
• You need a charging station that offers wired charging ports as well.

If the cable clutter is turning your bedside table into an eternal tangle, it's time to simplify your charging experience. The NYSTND QUAD is an easy way to do away with all the cables and charge all of your devices at once in one compact solution. The iPhone, the Apple Watch, the AirPods, and the iPad can all be charged at once using the NYSTND QUAD, and with nary a cable in sight. Simply plug it in and go. The beautiful, streamlined design comes in several color choices that will complement any interior design style. Since the QUAD is so compact, you can even bring it along as an all-in-one charger when you travel.

Belkin seems to be Apple's favorite supplier of third-party iPhone accessories. Obviously, this is purely my opinion, but I've noticed that Belkin always seems to be one of the first to come out with cool new iPhone accessories that are the first to go up in the Apple Store. The same was true of MagSafe.

Belkin was the first to come out with a MagSafe-compatible charging stand (which is a pretty awesome accessory, by the way), and its Magnetic Portable Wireless Charger Pad is a real competitor for Apple's original MagSafe Charger. There are some pretty big differences between the two, so each has its own advantages. I'll go into all of that, but first, the pros and cons:

Belkin Magnetic Wireless Charger: Price and availability

At first glance, the Belkin Portable Magnetic Charger Pad seems a bit expensive for a 7.5-watt wireless charger at $40. If you take a closer look, however, you will see that this price includes a 20-watt wall adapter and an extra-long cord. Now it's not looking so bad, right?

As for availability, you can find this charger at most major retailers where Belkin is sold, such as Amazon and Walmart. It is also available on the Belkin website, of course. At all retailers, it goes for about $40 to buy both the charger pad and the wall adapter, although you can buy the charger alone for $10 less if you prefer. We'll be sure to include it in the iMore Deals section when it goes on sale.

Belkin Magnetic Wireless Charger: Added convenience on the go

The most important advantage of the Belkin Magnetic Wireless Charger is the long cord combined with MagSafe technology. This makes it possible to use the iPhone easily while it charges. The magnetic attachment to the iPhone keeps the charger pad firmly attached while it charges, and the flexible, two-meter cable gives you plenty of room to hold and use the iPhone as it charges. This is not the case with other MagSafe chargers that usually only provide one meter of cable.

Because of the durable build and convenient design of this charger, it is also very portable. It comes with a built-in strap to keep the cable firmly looped while you travel. That way, the long cord doesn't become tangled or damaged in your bag. This is the charger I bring with me to travel now because it's more convenient and more durable than other chargers of its kind.

While an extra-long lightning cable serves basically the same purpose, I've noticed that most lightning cables (even the original) tend to fray and become damaged if you travel with them often. The lightning cord also tends to bend and fray on the lightning end if you use it often while it's charging. This is not a problem with a MagSafe wireless charging pad like this one. Also, I like that this one comes with an organizer strap for the cord—something I would normally have to purchase separately.

Speaking of purchasing things separately, I appreciate that the Belkin Magnetic Wireless Charger Pad comes with a 20-watt USB-C adapter as well. This is one aspect that has annoyed me about Apple's latest line of iPhones and MagSafe chargers; you have to buy the adapter separately! The powerful adapter from Belkin is interchangeable with the same one from Apple, and it comes included in the $40 price tag of the Belkin charger. This makes it a much better deal, in my opinion.

Belkin Magnetic Wireless Charger: Add a half-hour

The drawbacks of the Belkin Portable Magnetic Wireless Charger are pretty obvious: low wattage and slow charging. After all, the main selling point of Apple's MagSafe charger is that the MagSafe technology allows it to charge faster than other non-MagSafe wireless chargers. The Apple MagSafe charger can charge at up to 15 watts, while the Belkin Magnetic Charger Pad only charges at 7.5 watts.

So how does this play out when it comes to charging times? The Apple MagSafe charger definitely charges the iPhone faster, but not as much as one might think. The Apple MagSafe charger charges an iPhone 12 up to 50% capacity in about an hour, while the Belkin takes 1.5 hours to reach the same 50% capacity. The same is true for charging the iPhone battery from 0 to 100%; the Belkin wireless charger takes about half an hour longer to charge the battery to full capacity. I don't feel like this makes a huge difference. After all, if you really need to charge your iPhone quickly, you should just plug it into a lightning cable, which is faster than any wireless option.

Belkin Magnetic Wireless Charger: Competition

I think we've already covered competition pretty well. The obvious competitor to the Belkin Magnetic Wireless Charger Pad is the Apple MagSafe charger. As mentioned above, the Belkin Charger Pad charges more slowly, but it comes with a much longer, more durable cable. The Belkin charger also comes with a built-in cable organizer strap and a 20-watt adapter included in the box. I personally like the Belkin charger better for affordability and portability, but the Apple charger is definitely faster.

Belkin Magnetic Wireless Charger: Should you buy it?

• You like to use your iPhone while it charges.
• You need a portable wireless charger for travel and commute.
• You want a package deal that includes both charger pad and wall adapter.

• You're looking for the fastest wireless charger.

Don't ruin your expensive lightning cables by using them constantly while they charge or by taking them on every business trip. Instead, opt for a more durable Portable Magnetic Wireless Charger Pad from Belkin. This tough wireless charger is made for portability, and it's much easier to use while the iPhone charges. Just plug it in, snap it on the back of any MagSafe-compatible iPhone, and continue to use the iPhone without worrying about bending or damaging your cable. Although this wireless charger pad isn't necessarily faster than any other wireless charger, it is the most convenient option.

"Hey, where'd you get that case?" I've never been asked this question more often. The Custom Mirror Case from Casetify is an attention-grabber for sure. The shiny, ultra-reflective backing on this case is also fully MagSafe-compatible, which is a must for me. What really sets this case apart, however, is my name beautifully printed on the back panel. The subtle script font doesn't scream "JACLYN!" — it merely whispers my name, and I love it.

The mirror backing on the back of the Casetify custom case is one of many cases that Casetify offers, but it's one of the more unique designs. To make it even more unique, you can customize this case. Choose from small script fonts like mine, or large blocky initials that cover the back panel in a repeated motif that's reminiscent of designer bags. There are so many ways to customize this case, I doubt there are any two alike. Of course, a shiny metallic back panel comes with some obvious downsides, which I'll get into below.

Casetify Custom Mirror Case: Price and availability

The only place to buy a custom Casetify case is on the Casetify website. That's because this brand has perfected the art of creating unique iPhone cases online. For this case, you can choose between several metallic color shades and the level of protection you need. Then, you can preview the many different customization options in real time right on the product page. A custom iPhone case doesn't come especially cheap, however — the Casetify Custom Mirror Case for the iPhone 12 Pro Max will run you $65, but the quality is on point. I'll go into that in the next section.

Casetify Custom Mirror Case: A good-lookin' case that lets you look at yourself

You know you've got a fine accessory on your hands from the moment you take this case out of the box. It shines, it sparkles, and the customized print fits in perfectly with the design. When they say mirror, they mean it. I can see my face perfectly reflected in the backplate, and my name printed in the lower quadrant only adds to the appeal. It's blingy, but tasteful. It almost seems a shame to cover it up with a MagSafe-compatible wallet, but it's nice to know I can.

MagSafe has become an essential asset to the way I use my iPhone, so this is a feature I find absolutely necessary. Thankfully, this custom case is fully compatible with MagSafe. The MagSafe-compatible wallet does cover up my name, but when I need it, I'm happy that I can use it with this case. It also works with my MagSafe chargers and mounts like a charm.

I mentioned earlier that this case has generated a lot of notice, and it's true — everyone asks me where I got it! You just can't help but notice the shiny reflective surface and custom print. This case stands out in a crowd and since it's so customizable, it's one-of-a-kind. Despite the shiny back panel, the tough TPU bumper creates a grippy insulator for protection.

Speaking of protection, this case is built with tough bumpers and raised bezels around the camera and screen, so you can count on it for protection as well as good looks. It has 360º drop protection for falls of up to five feet, and I have tested this out (on accident) several times. So far, it has held up well to my infamous butterfingers. The thing is, it protects the iPhone, but the case doesn't hold hold up well under the abuse. This brings me to the next section.

Casetify Custom Mirror Case: Handle with care

The drawbacks of a mirror case are pretty self-evident. That shiny metallic surface is pretty to look at but doesn't hold up to a lot of abuse. The mirrored backplate will become scratched over time if you're rough on your iPhone. I am exceptionally rough on iPhone cases, so I found this out pretty quickly. Since I scratched the back panel, I've been trying a lot harder to handle it with care. Perhaps I should have been doing that in the first place?

One other thing I've noticed about the mirrored surface is that it shows fingerprints and smudges. This is to be expected with any shiny metallic surface, so I just clean it more often than I would with other cases. If I'm working in the garden or going on some outdoor adventure with my kids, I usually change cases first. I don't want to besmirch my pretty customized mirror case.

Casetify Custom Mirror Case: Competition

I scoured the internet looking for another customizable mirror case and I didn't find one. The only case I've found that's equal in flash and flair is the BaubleBar iPhone Case. This brand also offers fun, customizable designs that are interesting and eye-catching. Rather than print, they offer embossed cases with three-dimensional lettering you can feel. This comes at a cost of course; the BaubleBar cases take up to a month to produce and goes for about $70.

Casetify Custom Mirror Case: Should you buy it?

• You love all things shiny.
• You like to stand out.
• You're looking for something special for you or someone you care about.

• You're looking for a rugged case to take on rough adventures.
• You can't abide a fingerprint or two.

Here's a case that doubles as your compact mirror and iPhone protector. The three colorways make it more interesting than a traditional silver mirror, but you'll have to take care. The shiny metallic surface is more prone to scratches than matte surfaces. What really sets this case apart (besides the mirror backplate) is the customization. With over 12 customization options to choose from, you can choose to print any initial or word you like, as long as it's eight characters or less. The possibilities are (almost) endless! Because of the options and unique materials, this case also makes a one-of-a-kind gift for someone special.

If there were ever a brand was fun-centric, it would be Casetify. Its incredibly diverse array of tech accessories includes funny prints, interesting collabs, and many fun ways to customize products. In fact, customizing products is what the brand is best known for, from initials on MagSafe-compatible wallets to your favorite phrase on a phone case.

I chose the Clouds print for my MagSafe-compatible Impact case because I like the whimsical, feminine energy, but there are over 50 styles to choose from in the Casetify MagSafe line alone. Of these, more than 15 are customizable so you can add lettering of your choice in several different layouts and fonts. If customization is not your thing, there are cases with fun sayings, artistic collabs, a rainbow of color choices, or plain old clear cases if that's what you're into. Here's a rundown of basic facts about this case:

Casetify MagSafe Impact Case: Price and availability

The only place to buy a Casetify iPhone case is on the Casetify website. Here they have the system set up to support previews of any option you choose. Since so many cases are fully customizable, it makes sense that they want to keep the ordering process streamlined on their own website. This particular case, the MagSafe-compatible Impact Case, costs $70 at full price, although it does sometimes go on sale. When it does, we'll be listing it in the iMore Deals section.

Casetify MagSafe Impact Case: A truly unique MagSafe case

My favorite thing about the Casetify Impact Case is the unique, eye-catching print. Clouds is only one of many cute prints on the Casetify website, and I love that there are so many fun and interesting options. This one is soft and pretty in pastel colors that contrast nicely with the darker Pacific Blue iPhone that shows through underneath. The cute print also distracts slightly from the conspicuous white MagSafe circle that I don't find very attractive.

Speaking of MagSafe, that's the only kind of case I use for my iPhone 12 Pro Max these days since I have so many MagSafe accessories. Casetify was thinking ahead when they designed so many of their popular cases to include MagSafe. This one works just as it should, allowing my iPhone to seamlessly attach to MagSafe wallets, chargers, and mounts as needed. This is definitely necessary for the way I use my iPhone.

Another thing I noticed about this case is that it is made with recycled materials. It says so right on the side of the case! Regardless of how it's made, the tough PC plastic has a pleasant rubbery feel with some grip. This is a solid case that protects the iPhone from every angle, so I feel confident it will stay safe and sound in the Impact Case. Oh, and speaking of sustainability, Casetify also ships its products in compostable packaging that's printed with eco-friendly ink, so that's always a nice touch.

One last thing that bears mentioning is that, although Casetify does not offer custom-printing for the Clouds case, many of their cases do offer customization. This is a fun feature that I plan to use on my next case, so I'll be back with a review of a Casetify customized case soon.

Casetify MagSafe Impact Case: Big branding, big price

When it comes to functionality, protection, and overall appearance of the Casetify Impact Case, I don't have any complaints. It works perfectly and I love the look of the case overall. I do feel like the Casetify branding on the back panel is a bit overdone. The Casetify logo stands out white against the black border that circles the camera. I feel like a black on black engraving on the back panel or the side may have been a bit more tasteful, but I suppose that's just my own preference.

The only other thing is that I have to admit that this case is expensive. I don't like to spend more than $50 on an iPhone case, but many of the most popular brands are now making fine cases like this one for upwards of $65 or $70. Casetify has the market cornered on unique printed and customized cases, so they can charge premium prices for an exclusive product. This is definitely an excellent case, but it seems on the expensive side to me. When it comes to the wide range of prints and customization options they offer, however, I personally am willing to pay for a well-made and super unique case.

Casetify MagSafe Impact Case: Competition

There are very few brands that offer the customization options you find with Casetify. Companies like Shutterfly and CaseApp offer this service, but I doubt they offer the same quality and protection as a Casetify case. There's also no other brand that has the same sheer variety of interesting case prints and styles. The brand Case-Mate does have a high-quality protective case with built-in MagSafe and they also offer some cool prints. This is probably the most similar competition to a Casetify case. Case-Mate's MagSafe-compatible printed cases are a little more affordable at about $50 or $60, depending the on the style. Case-Mate does not offer customized cases, however, and they have far fewer choices of prints. When it comes to unique and custom prints, Casetify owns this corner of the market.

Casetify MagSafe Impact Case: Should you buy it?

• You want a high-quality, custom-printed case.
• You love fun and unique prints on your iPhone cases.
• You need a MagSafe case that is also protective.

• You're on a tight budget
• You prefer a case without any visible branding.

Casetify does deliver the whole shebang with its MagSafe Compatible Impact Case. Not only is it fully compatible with MagSafe, the case is also super protective, unique, and attractive on an iPhone 12. The possibilities are endless when it comes to the variety of interesting prints and customization options. A case like this would also make a great gift if you get it custom-printed with the name of someone special. Although it's not cheap, the high quality and unique benefits offered by this line of cases make it a worthwhile purchase.

What you need to know

• An iPhone 12 Pro Max captured the moment lightning struck the One World Trade Center building.
• The nine-second clip shows lightning striking the top of the building in surprising detail.

Apple's iPhone 12 Pro Max is generally accepted to be the best iPhone for photography and it's shown why that is once again — although this time it's a slow-motion video that's proving the point. A slow-motion video of a lightning strike, no less.

Captured by photographer Anthony Quintano, the nine-second clip shows lightning streaking across the New York City sky with one bolt striking the tip of the One World Trade Center building. The video is dramatic, scary, and amazing all at the same time.

Check it out.

Quintano says that the footage was captured using an iPhone 12 Pro Max in slow-motion mode, and it's breathtaking.

Apple's iPhone 12 lineup is all capable of recording slow-motion videos at 1080p and 120 fps or 240 fps, whichever you prefer. You'll need a tripod, some luck, and a whole lot of skill if you're going to capture something like this though!

Apple's iPhone 13 lineup, set to be announced this September, could well up the game in terms of video recording. Apple is expected to announce four new iPhones; iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max and this is thought to be the last time we'll get that mini option, too. Poor iPhone 12 mini sales are thought to have already seen to that, although huge iPhone 13 mini sales could possibly see Apple's plans change.

Caseology is well-known for creating good quality — yet affordable — cases in a variety of different designs. This is one of its slimmest cases and the Dual Grip's simple form factor will definitely appeal to minimalists. It's smooth and sleek, with simple lines and a super thin profile. The name Dual Grip is inspired by the cool textured cutouts on each side that give your fingers the perfect non-slip grip.

The Caseology Dual Grip looks good on my iPhone 12 Pro Max, and the grippy sides feel good in the hand. When it comes to aesthetics, it looks fine, but I'm not sure black is the best color to pair with a Pacific Blue iPhone. I'm thinking this case would look even better on a black, white, or silver phone. Black is the only color available for this case, but I'll go into more of that later. First, the pros and cons:

Caseology Dual Grip: Price and availability

Caseology cases are not difficult to get a hold of. The Dual Grip is available on the Caseology website, but you can find it for a lower price at Amazon and Walmart. On Amazon, for example, you can purchase this case for the iPhone 12 Pro Max for no more than $12! It definitely performs and looks like a good quality case, so I was pleased to find it at such an attractive price point. The Dual Grip only comes in black, though.

Caseology Dual Grip: Smooth and sleek, yet grippy

For anyone who likes to keep things minimal, this smooth, sleek case will be a great choice. It has a streamlined look and feel with very few details to interrupt the simple lines. It is also quite thin and doesn't add much bulk or weight to the iPhone. The problem with super smooth cases is the drop factor, of course, so Caseology solved with problem with grippy cutouts on both sides.

As you can see in some of the photos, the grippy element on each side is incorporated so that it looks like a natural part of the design. It has a cool, modern look to it and as soon as you feel it under your fingers, you know why it's there. The subtle texture seems to grab onto your hand, and as long as you're holding onto this grippy part of the case, it's very unlikely that you'll drop the iPhone. I actually haven't dropped my phone since it's been in this case, which is rare for me.

I should mention that this case is compatible with my MagSafe charger. While it's not a MagSafe case, the Dual Grip is thin enough that the MagSafe charger can still snap into place when it's time to charge the iPhone. I wouldn't trust it on a MagSafe mount, but for charging it works just fine. This is a nice added feature.

Although I haven't dropped my iPhone since it's been in the case, it seems protective enough. Now, it's pretty slim and lightweight, so I'm not sure it would hold up to being dropped off a balcony or something; but the raised edges around the screen and camera are deep enough to protect the most sensitive areas of the iPhone. While I do feel that the protection of the iPhone is sufficient in the Dual Grip case, the case itself does not weather a lot of rough treatment. That's my main point in the next section.

Caseology Dual Grip: Can I get that in blue?

After about a month of using the Caseology Dual Grip, I have a noticed a few hairline scratches in the black surface. They are very light and not that noticeable, but they are definitely there. Since I haven't dropped or otherwise mistreated the iPhone in this case, this makes me think that the smooth black surface might not hold up under rough treatment. For this reason I'll be making sure I treat it gently (and keep it away from my kids). This is an attractive case but noticeable scratches would definitely take away from its jet black beauty.

The only other improvement I'd like to see with this case would be additional color choices. The black would look great with a black iPhone, but not so eye-catching on my Pacific Blue model. I'd love to see some choices in blue, white, or even metallic shades like silver. Since the case is a nice combination of grippy textures and smooth minimalism, all it needs now is a few more color options for colorful iPhones.

Caseology Dual Grip: Competition

It's not unusual to see iPhone cases that have a grippy texture or a slim appearance, but it's rare to find a thin case that combines both smooth surfaces and slim grip. The most similar option would have to be the Smartish Gripmunk. Here's a reasonably slim case with a smooth back panel and grippy sides, just like the Dual Grip. The Gripmunk comes in more colorways, which may be an advantage for some, and it's sold at a similar price point. The Gripmunk is not as thin or minimal as the Dual Grip, however, so your decision between two cases like these will depend on your own personal style and preference.

Caseology Dual Grip: Should you buy it?

• You drop your iPhone easily.
• You have a black iPhone.
• You enjoy simple, minimal design while having adequate protection.

• You're exceedingly rough on your phone.
• You like colorful cases.

There's no question, if you have a Graphite iPhone 12, this case would make a fine companion to it. It's sleek, smooth, and quite slim. This is a great choice for anyone who appreciates the simple things in life and values minimal design. If you have butterfingers, you will also like how the grippy sides seems to hold on to your fingers for an excellent non-slip grip. It also provides adequate protection, as long as you don't abuse the case (it will show scratches if you do!) If you have a Pacific Blue or otherwise brightly colored iPhone, this might not be your choice of case because it lacks a lot of colorways. The choice will depend on your preferences regarding color and style, but overall it's a good case for a very good price.

The profile of the iPhone 12 and its big brother the iPhone 12 Pro Max is sleek and slim, which is why a lot of people prefer not to weight it down with a big, bulky case. On the other hand, clumsy people like me buy big fat cases for the protective benefits. So, when it comes to buying a thin case, you have to consider your lifestyle to make sure it's a good fit for you. One thing is for sure, though; the Caudabe Veil is the thinnest, slimmest iPhone case I have ever seen.

This paper-thin case is made of a stiff, yet flexible, plastic material that just barely extends past the iPhone screen and camera. This does provide a slight barrier of protection against minor drops and impacts. The light, translucent design is pleasing to look at and feels good in the hand. This is minimalism at its finest. I like the case, but I don't know if it will be a permanent solution for me. I'll go into more of those details below.

Caudabe Veil Case: Price and availability

If you're shopping for an iPhone 12, the only place to buy the Caudabe Veil is the official Caudabe website, where it goes for $25. If you need a Veil case for a previous model however, like the iPhone 11, you can find the Caudabe Veil at major retailers like Amazon and Walmart. It generally stays around $25, but if it goes on sale, we'll be sure to highlight it in our deals section.

Caudabe Veil Case: Slim is in

It doesn't get much closer to a naked iPhone. Since the Veil is basically weightless, the be-Veiled iPhone 12 Pro Max feels naked in the hand. There's no distinguishable difference in size, shape, and sleekness. The only difference here is the grippy texture that helps you hold onto the iPhone. The subtle texture of the Caudabe Veil seems to grip onto your fingers, making you less likely to drop the iPhone.

Since the iPhone is a beautiful piece of design, I like a case that shows off its sleek size and shape. There are additional conveniences to a super thin case, as well. The Veil is the case I use especially for nights out on the town. If I need to slip my phone into a clutch or into a back pocket, a slim case like this one makes it a lot easier. The slim profile of the iPhone in the Veil case is a noticeable difference from the usual ultra-protective cases I use. That brings me to protection.

There are a few features of the Veil case that provide some minimal protection. First, the paper-thin material does protect reliably against scratches. Also, the slightly raised edges around the screen and camera provide some protection from minor drops and falls. Me being me, I did happen to drop my iPhone 12 Pro Max a few feet in this case, but there was no visible damage. Honestly, having such a thin case makes me nervous, but I was surprised and pleased to find that the iPhone was no worse for wear after a few drops in the Veil case. However, that nervousness is what I need to address in the next section.

Caudabe Veil Case: Good thing it's grippy

Look, I've broken some iPhones. Let's say I know exactly how much it costs to repair an iPhone screen in several different continents. For that reason, a super thin case like this makes me nervous. I have a tendency to drop things, so I've been holding on to my iPhone extra tightly in this case. (Perhaps I should have been doing that all along?) Luckily, the grippy texture of this case does make it easier to hold on to.

Like I mentioned earlier, the iPhone did drop a few feet in the Caudabe Veil with no harm done. But then, I once dropped my iPhone down an entire flight of concrete stairs (luckily in a bulky case at the time), and I'm not too sure that the Veil would hold up to such a fall. So, while I love the thin, trim look of an ultra-thin case, it won't be a permanent solution. I keep it on when I'm carrying a small purse or when I need to slip into a jeans pocket, but if I'm traveling or carting my kids about, a bigger, more protective case gives me better peace of mind.

Caudabe Veil Case: Competition

A case that's only 0.35mm thick is exceedingly rare. The only other one I know of is the Peel case. This one is just as thin as the Caudabe Veil. I've never personally used the Peel, but I assume it also has raised edges around the screen and camera. The Peel Case offers more colorways, but it's slightly more expensive than the Caudabe case at $30. The two cases are very similar, but the Caudabe Veil might be the better deal price-wise.

Caudabe Veil Case: Should you buy it?

• You want the thinnest case around to keep the sleek size and shape of a naked iPhone.
• You don't lead an extreme (or super clumsy) lifestyle.
• You enjoy a grippy texture to hold on to.

• You're exceedingly rough on your iPhones.
• You drop your phone often.

The benefits of the Caudabe Veil case are simple and evident. It's one of the thinnest cases you can buy. For those that love to go case-less but worry about minor drops or scratches, this is a great solution. It's also the closest thing you'll get to a naked iPhone. The slim, sleek design will squeeze easily into tight spaces and pockets, but the grippy texture won't slip out of your fingers. The translucent frost colorway is also easy on the eyes. It looks nice on my Pacific Blue iPhone, but it would also look lovely on a white, silver, or gold iPhone. If you're a butterfingers like me, however, it might have to be reserved as your "night out on the town" case, because I'm not sure it would hold up to a truly bad fall. This is a call you'll have to make based on your habits and lifestyle.

What you need to know

• UK woman Olivia Parkinson ordered a new iPhone 12 Pro Max from carrier Virgin Media and awaited delivery.
• Courier Yodel delivered a fresh, broken tile instead of an iPhone.

Getting a new iPhone is supposed to be an exciting day, but sometimes things go wrong. And then sometimes you get a broken tile in an iPhone 12 Pro Max box instead.

That's what happened to Olivia Parkinson after she had the misfortune to order an iPhone 12 Pro Max from UK carrier Virgin Media. That part wasn't really the problem, but things started to go awry when Virgin Media used Yodel to deliver the thing. As fellow UK dwellers will attest, that wasn't great news.

Things took a turn when the iPhone arrived at Parkinson's doorstep but after opening it she didn't see a shiny new Apple device. She saw a tile instead. What's worse, it was a broken tile as if someone wanted to add insult to injury.

As LADbible reports, Parkinson initially got the cold shoulder from Virgin Media and was told she was liable for the lost iPhone. Eventually, and once the people of Twitter got involved, Virgin Media agreed that something was amiss and refunded Parkinson for her loss. Still, it could all have been handled better, it seems.

It seems fairly obvious that someone somewhere recognized the size and shape of Parkinson's parcel and then had away with the iPhone that was inside. Yodel is more known for throwing expensive items into pools and over 6ft walls than outright stealing things, but who knows. I presume the stolen iPhone is now a very nice-looking paperweight and nothing more thanks to the various locks carriers can place on modern phones.

Hopefully Parkinson gets her new iPhone eventually. The impressive iPhone 12 Pro Max is the best iPhone for photographers as well, so she can at least take some stunning images of that there tile.

I admit I have a thing for leather cases. Something about the way leather looks and feels speaks of classy sophistication. However, most leather cases don't offer a very high level of protection, so I usually don't buy them. This is because I am a terrible klutz. So imagine my delight when I found out that Mous has a new leather case in their famously protective Limitless line and that this one also has full MagSafe compatibility for my iPhone 12 Pro Max!

The Mous Limitless series of iPhone cases offers incredible protection for drops of up to 45 feet or more! That's impressive for any iPhone case, but it's unheard of for a leather case. Now, with the 4.0 edition of Limitless, Mous is taking full advantage of the iPhone 12's MagSafe capabilities. I'm really getting into the MagSafe features now that there are more MagSafe accessories coming out to take advantage of the new technology. I'll lay out some of those details, but first, we can take a look at the basic pros and cons of the Mous Limitless 4.0 leather case:

Mous Limitless 4.0 Case: Price and availability

Since this is a brand-spanking-new product, it's not available at a lot of retailers yet. Right now, you can buy it at the Mous website and Amazon. The current price is $65, although it might go on promotion from time to time. Check out our deals section to stay updated on current sales. The leather Mous MagSafe-Compatible Card Wallet that goes with it is $50 on the Mous website, as well.

Mous Limitless 4.0 Case: Fine leather and sky drops

I know I already mentioned the sublime leather backing on this case, but it bears mentioning again. It is full-grain leather with a quality look and feel. It looks pretty sharp too. When paired with the leather Magnetic Card Wallet, the two act like a single leather unit, like a fine wallet case. And since the Limitless 4.0 line is thinner than the three Limitless lines that came before, it's a sleek, slimmer profile that pairs beautifully with my big iPhone 12 Pro Max without adding as much bulk as most military-grade protective cases.

Speaking of protection, the Limitless 4.0 series offers a full 45 feet of drop protection. Show me another leather case that can claim that! This is made possible by the TPU base layer that is built with Mous's proprietary AiroShock™ technology. We're talking about a technology that you can drop out of the sky with barely a dent. Long story short, I know my iPhone 12 Pro Max will be perfectly safe in this case, even if I drop it off of a building or something. Knowing me, it's always a possibility.

Finally, let's talk MagSafe. Since I bought my new 12-series iPhone, I'll admit I haven't used the new MagSafe features much outside of the MagSafe charger. The MagSafe-Compatible Card Wallet from Mous was my first opportunity to use a non-charging MagSafe accessory. I gotta say, it's pretty neat. The wallet snaps right into place and holds on tight. It hasn't fallen off once, despite a few drops and falls. It's not difficult to take off when I don't need it, though. I also like the idea that I can use the card wallet with a naked iPhone 12, even though I'm scared to take my iPhone anywhere without a protective cover. Regardless, a card wallet on a naked iPhone is a nice idea, even if I don't use it that way. Besides the wallet, the Limitless 4.0 case also works perfectly with the MagSafe charger and the Mous Charger Stand that I use it with.

Mous Limitless 4.0 Case: Can I get that in blue?

When it comes to usability and functionality, the only thing I noticed with the Limitless 4.0 case was that it seemed slightly more difficult to install and remove. My other Limitless cases snapped right on and off the iPhone. This one required a bit of a push and pull dance. This may be because the Limitless 4.0 series is slimmer than previous versions, so it's a bit of a tighter fit. If you don't change cases often, it's not a big deal, but it's something to consider.

I'd also love to see the MagSafe-compatible leather case and card wallet in a few more colors. That is one thing I adored about Apple's line of MagSafe products; they have some adorable color combos. Bright colors might not be Mous's cup of tea, but I sure would enjoy a Pacific Blue card wallet to contrast against the black leather case; just sayin'.

Mous Limitless 4.0 Case: Competition

We have a pretty obvious competitor here. Apple's Leather Case with MagSafe is the only real contender. Their silky smooth leather cases have some beautiful color options, but they don't have that high-end full-grain leather look that I enjoy about the Limitless 4.0 leather case. What I like about Apple's line are the fun color combos you can achieve by mixing and matching the Apple Leather Cases with different Leather Wallets. However, on the protective end, Apple's leather case simply cannot compare with Mous's almost ridiculous level of protection. Since they are both about the same price, the Mous case is the better deal, in my opinion.

Mous Limitless 4.0 Case: Should you buy it?

• You love the look and feel of full-grain leather.
• You like the versatility of a MagSafe card wallet.
• You need a super protective case that will hold up to any rough treatment.

• You want a bright and colorful leather case.
• You change cases a lot.

If you enjoy fine leather as I do, then you need this case. It's the perfect combination of high-quality materials, slim good looks, and intense protection. The iPhone 12 Pro Max looks dang good in this case, and when the MagSafe-compatible card wallet is attached, the case can totally replace your wallet. Snap it on or off, with or without a case. The Limitless 4.0 case works with all other MagSafe accessories, as well. Here we have versatility, protection, and a stylish design. That checks off all the requirements on my list!

It's rare that I give five-star reviews, but I could not find a single thing I didn't like about the Mous Clarity Case for the iPhone 12 Pro Max. This accessory has everything you could ever want in a great iPhone 12 Pro Max case — a slim, attractive design, ultra protective materials, durability, and a grippy texture. What more could you ask for?

We reviewed this case for the iPhone X, but since then the brand has streamlined the design and also upgraded the materials. Since this case works perfectly with the MagSafe charger as well, it makes an excellent companion for the iPhone 12 Pro Max. I'll go into more of the details, but first let's lay out the basic facts:

Mous Clarity Case: Price and availability

At full price, the Mous Clarity Case is about $80, which is certainly not cheap, but you can check out our deals section from time to time to see if it goes on sale. Right now, it is readily available on the Mous website and Amazon. You may also find Mous products at Best Buy for online orders and in-store pickup.

Mous Clarity Case: Glassy yet grippy protection

There's a lot to like about the Mous Clarity Case for the iPhone 12 Pro Max. First and foremost, it shows off the gorgeous handset to its best advantage and looks amazing on the Pacific Blue colorway because of the crystal-clear solid polycarbonate backing. This material is shiny and has a glassy look to it, but it doesn't show fingerprints as much as most shiny clear cases. Speaking of polycarbonate, this is the stuff they use to make riot shields, which leads me to my next point - the protective qualities of the Clarity Case.

Most Mous cases are crazy protective, and this case is no different. Clear cases offer varying degrees of protection, but this one offers a combination of impact-absorbing AiroShock™ material with ultra tough polycarbonate for a rare level of protection. You can feel the quality of this case when you hold it in your hand and I've put it through its paces with some significant drops and falls. There's not a single dent, scratch, or mark on this case after over a month of heavy use. It protects every surface of the iPhone and doesn't show the wear and tear that most cases do after I get ahold of them. Despite the tough, protective qualities of the materials, this case is not bulky or thick. It also works perfectly with the MagSafe charger.

Aside from the attractive and protective benefits of the Mous Clarity Case, I also like how it feels in the hand. The case is shiny and slick looking, but it doesn't feel slick. There's a certain rubberiness to the sides and back that give it a good grip in the hand. This helps prevent drops and gives the case a solid feel that seems high-end. It looks and feels expensive, which makes sense considering the price. In fact, the price is the only disadvantage I could come up with for the Clarity Case.

Mous Clarity Case: That Price Though

After using the case for over a month and putting it through my usual rough treatment, I could not find a single thing I didn't like about it, save for one. For a clear case, this is definitely on the pricier side. To be, ahem, clear, that is not to say that the price is not justified, but I could see why it might be off-putting to the average shopper. With that being said, the high quality of the materials (I mean, this is riot shield level stuff!), the slick look, and the incredible durability of this case do help to justify the price point.

Mous Clarity Case: Competition

Does this case even have similar competition? Not really. The closest thing on the market may be the LifeProof Next Series Clear Case, but even that is not exactly comparable. Like the Mous Clarity, the LifeProof Next has a clear backing, tough TPU bumpers, and high protection. The LifeProof is thicker though and doesn't have that slick shiny look that gives the Clarity Case such an attractive, sleek profile. LifeProof definitely has excellent protection, but it doesn't look as nice as the Mous Clarity for the iPhone 12 Pro Max.

Mous Clarity Case: Should you buy it?

• You want a high-end look for your iPhone 12 Pro Max.
• You like to show off your iPhone's true colors.
• You are rough on phone cases and need something more durable.
• You have the budget for a high-quality iPhone case.

• You're looking for an inexpensive clear case.

To summarize, the Mous Clarity Case is a fantastic companion to the iPhone 12 Pro Max. It has a sleek, shiny look and feel that will suit any of the iPhone 12 Pro colorways. I love how it looks against Pacific Blue. Although it does have that glassy surface, the case is not slippery. It still provides good grip, and even if you do drop it, the excellent protective qualities will keep your iPhone safe no matter what you put it through. In fact, the high-end materials do not even show the usual wear and tear that you see in many clear iPhone cases.

While this is not a case for the faint of budget, I think it's worth the extra expense. This is a clear case that won't yellow over time, and its tough construction will hold up to years of heavy use. If you buy the Mous Clarity, it may well be the last case you buy until your next iPhone upgrade.

The Mous Limitless 3.0 Walnut Case has been in my possession for a few weeks now, so naturally, I needed the accessories to go with it. The Mous Limitless 3.0 Card Wallet is the perfect companion to this case because it uses the AutoAlign magnetic system to attach effortlessly to any Mous Limitless 3.0 case.

Yes, it's similar to the MagSafe system, but in general, the cases and accessories are more affordable than official Apple MagSafe gear. Limitless 3.0 also offers a variety of unique materials like walnut and aramid fiber. My personal favorite case in this line is the walnut material, and the full-grain leather card wallet looks beautiful against the wood panel. The card wallet snaps onto the back of any Mous Limitless 3.0 case and holds two cards securely in place usually. I'll go into more of that later, but first, let's see the pros and cons.

Mous Card Wallet: Price and availability

The Mous Card Wallet is not difficult to find. You can buy it from the Mous website, of course, and it is also available at Amazon and Best Buy. The standard price is $40, but the wallet does go on sale periodically. We'll be sure to post any new discounts on the Mous Limitless 3.0 line in our deals section. No matter the price, this is a high-quality product that is sure to last, and you can find it easily at any of the major retailers mentioned above.

Mous Card Wallet: Easy on the eyes and easy to use

The Mous Limitless 3.0 Card Wallet's look and feel are very nice, with smooth full-grain leather and a minimal design. It is a simple cardholder that includes two slots for credit cards. You could hypothetically slip some cash in there as well, but it would be a tight fit. I like the slim, lightweight design and high-quality leather material. When used with any of the Limitless 3.0 cases, it's an attractive and sophisticated combo.

This product adds a ton of convenience to your daily routine, especially if you're in a hurry. When I want to head out and run errands without carrying the extra weight of a purse, I snap this onto my iPhone with an ID and a credit card, and I'm ready to go. It's also convenient for a night out on the town or a jog, whenever you need to keep your hands free.

The Limitless 3.0 wallet is straightforward to use. The AutoAlign magnetic system makes it possible to snap onto the back of the case in just the right position. The cards remain securely in their pockets, even when the iPhone has jostled around in my purse. I see no danger of the cards falling out. The card wallet stays in place because of the magnets, although I did have one detachment issue, which we can discuss in the following section.

Mous Card Wallet: The accidental detachment

The one incident I had with this detachable wallet was an accidental detachment. Although it only happened once, it did give me a scare when I dropped the iPhone onto a concrete surface, only to find that the Limitless 3.0 Card Wallet was gone when I picked it up! It was a very hard fall, I admit, hard enough that the screen would have likely broken without a good protective case in place. Regardless, it bears mentioning that the magnetic card wallet can fall off during heavy impacts. The one time this happened, I found the card wallet immediately at my feet, so no harm was done.

Lastly, I wouldn't mind seeing this product in more colorways. If it came in several bright colors to contrast with the understated color scheme of the Limitless 3.0 line of cases, the combination would be striking. Maybe this is something Mous can implement in the future.

Mous Card Wallet: Competition

There are not many magnetic card wallets made for the iPhone, so there's no heavy competition for this innovative product. The main contender is, of course, the Apple Leather Wallet with MagSafe. This product's main advantage over the Mous Limitless 3.0 Card Wallet is that it can be used on a naked iPhone 12 due to the built-in MagSafe system. I never use a naked iPhone myself, but this might be important to some folks. The main disadvantage of the Apple Leather Wallet, however, is the price. It's a good $20 more expensive than the Limitless 3.0 Card Wallet, which is no small difference. If you're looking for good value for the price, Mous is the way to go.

Mous Card Wallet: Should you buy it?

• You appreciate fine leather materials.
• You'd like to free up your pockets and hands.
• You're a minimalist.
• The Apple MagSafe products seem expensive to you.

• You tend to drop your iPhone, often and hard.
• You prefer vivid color combos.

If you love the idea of running errands without the extra bulk of a wallet or bag, you'll love the Limitless 3.0 Card Wallet and its accompanying line of Limitless 3.0 cases. This simple leather card wallet turns your wallet and iPhone into one minimal unit. The fine leather material and simple design of this wallet look great against the aramid fiber or wood panels that make up the Limitless 3.0 iPhone cases. Together they make a fine-looking pair to go with an already fine-looking iPhone 12. This product is a delightful combination of convenience and attractive design.

What you need to know

• Consumer Reports has named the iPhone 12 Pro Max as one of the best smartphones of 2021.
• The outlet noted the battery life, screen, and cameras as the factors that earned it the crown.

The iPhone 12 Pro Max has taken the crown as one the best smartphones of 2021 according to Consumer Reports.

The outlet says that, of the 55 smartphones they have tested recently, only ten have not received their recommendation, a nod to the stellar technology making its way to mid-range and even low cost smartphones.

The iPhone 12 Pro Max took the cake as one of the top smartphones and best iPhone of the year due to its large display, battery life, and upgraded cameras. Consumer Reports does note, however, that many people will find the iPhone 12 Pro Max too big and may be happier with the iPhone 12 Pro, which does include most of the features of the 12 Pro Max in a smaller form factor.

If you're trying to figure out the best iPhone for you, check out our list of the Best iPhone of 2021.

The iPhone 12 Pro Max and iPhone 12 Pro released last fall along with the rest of the iPhone 12 lineup. The new lineup has been a major success for Apple, driving new sales at a rate not seen since the iPhone 6 back in 2014.

The Mous Limitless 3.0 is the third rendition of Mous's line of high-end protective cases, and it aims to compete with some of the best iPhone 12 Pro Max cases. Although the brand has been around for a few years now, this is my first hands-on experience with their products. I have to say, I am not at all disappointed. The Mous Limitless 3.0 Walnut Case is a gorgeous piece of craftsmanship, from its solid protective construction to the lovely walnut panel on the back.

One thing is for sure when it comes to this line of cases from Mous; nothing is boring about them! Whether it's bullet-proof aramid fiber or natural wood details, each one is unique and interesting. As for the walnut case, I loved almost everything about it, but there was one little catch. I'll go into all of that later, but first, let's lay out the pros and cons.

Sustainable luxury

Mous Limitless 3.0 Walnut Case: What I like

The Mous case arrived in a plain brown box; I wasn't sure what it was at first. But upon opening the unprepossessing package, I found a smart compartment inside that opened up to reveal the case and its accessories. The compartment is printed with an explanation of the plain brown packaging, "We're working towards reducing our impact on the planet." I'm totally down with that and applaud it. You don't need the slick plastic packaging to create a stellar product, as Mous has clearly shown with this case.

Once I took out the case, I noticed the soft microfiber lining on the inside and the beautiful walnut backing right away. It's a fine-looking accessory, and it slipped right onto my iPhone 12 Pro Max like a glove. There is a certain attention detail here that is impossible to miss. The case comes with an extra SIM ejector tool that fits snugly into a fitted groove inside the case, alongside two grooves for extra SIM cards. This is a unique feature that I've never seen in any other case.

This Limitless 3.0 Walnut Case has a refined, stylish look that can only be described as pure elegance. The simple lines and slim feel of the case make for an attractive design, but the walnut panel on the back really makes it stand out. The warm wood tones are beautiful as it is, but they are unexpected and striking on an iPhone case. The wood backing definitely sets the case apart and gives it an unusual and sophisticated look. This is my favorite thing about the case. I really love the way it looks, I don't think I've ever had a phone case that looked more stylish.

Finally, the AutoAlign technology is pretty neat. I have the Limitless 3.0 wallet that goes with this line, and it snaps perfectly into place on the back of the case, just like the Apple Wallet works with MagSafe. The difference here is that the Limitless 3.0 Card Wallet is a lot more affordable than the Apple Leather Wallet, which is always a plus. And although the Limitless 3.0 Case does work with the MagSafe Charger, it does not work with other MagSafe accessories, so you'll want to buy Mous AutoAlign accessories if that's what you're into.

Be gentle on the walnut

Mous Limitless 3.0 Walnut Case: What I don't like

The Mous Limitless series is ultra-protective, as they have demonstrated on various videos dropping iPhones out of helicopters. Walnut wood, however, is not as tough as the TPU core that gives the case its protective qualities. Since I am notoriously rough on my iPhones, it didn't take me long to discover that the walnut backing is susceptible to small chips and scratches if mistreated. The iPhone itself will be super safe in this case, but the walnut panel won't take much of a beating before it starts to show some wear and tear.

One easy misconception to make about this case is that AutoAlign is the same as MagSafe. That is not the case. AutoAlign implements small magnets that are built into the case and its accessories. These magnets will not impede wireless or MagSafe charging, but they are not the same as MagSafe. Apple accessories that use MagSafe may not work with Limitless 3.0 cases.

The competition

There aren't too many wood cases out there to compare to the Mous Walnut Case. The only other one I saw that also offered some protection was the Oakywood Wooden MagSafe Case. This one also has a nice refined look, and it supports MagSafe charging, but it's not as protective as the Mous. Overall these are two very similar cases, but Mous has a more trustworthy brand history and reliability.

Mous Limitless 3.0 Walnut Case: Should you buy

You enjoy the finer things in life.

For anyone who loves a luxury look and high-quality products, this is a fine high-end case that looks refined and striking against any iPhone 12.

You change SIM cards a lot.

This is the only case I've seen with built-in slots for extra SIM cards and an extra SIM ejector tool with a dedicated slot right on the inside of the case. If you ever have to switch SIM cards on the fly, you'll be prepared!

You're all about the accessories.

With cool AutoAlign accessories like the Card Wallet and various mounts, you'll have no end of cool ways to use your iPhone with the Limitless 3.0 series.

You appreciate sustainable practices.

I was impressed with Mous's efforts to use sustainable packaging materials and processes. If all manufacturers made small changes like these, there would be a lot less plastic hitting the landfills.

You are extremely rough on your iPhone cases.

While your iPhone will remain super safe in this case, the walnut panel will not hold up to heavy mistreatment without showing some chips and scratches. You'll want to be kind to this case to uphold its beautiful design.

Here we have the perfect combination of form and function. Limitless 3.0 is where stylish design meets rugged protection, and it goes very well with the iPhone 12 Pro Max. The Pacific Blue colorway looks stunning against the walnut back panel, and the Limitless 3.0 doesn't add too much bulk or weight despite its high protection rating.

You'll want to be gentle with that walnut backing because it does tend to chip or scratch under rough treatment. Other than that, I can't find a single disadvantage to the Mous Limitless 3.0 for the iPhone 12 Pro Max. It's a beautiful case made for a beautiful iPhone, and they look good together.

Back in 2012, Apple introduced the iPhone 5. For the first time, iPhones no longer had 3.5-inch displays. At 4-inches diagonally, the iPhone 5 was the "biggest thing to happen to iPhone since iPhone," according to Apple. That distinction didn't last long. Eventually, the largest iPhone grew to 4.7-inches, then 5.5-inches. Eventually, we saw iPhones with 6.1-inch and 6.46-inch displays. Then came the iPhone 12 Pro Max with its 6.7-inch screen, which is 0.6-inches bigger than the iPhone 12 Pro.

No doubt, the extra real estate is what brings most buyers to the larger handset. It's why I purchased this year's largest phone, just as I have in past years, and will do so again when Apple grows the iPhone screens again.

Five months after the Pro Max arrived, iMore is publishing a review. The piece in front of you isn't delayed or long overdue. Because of the striking similarities between the two Pro models, we felt our iPhone 12 Pro review was enough to cover the bases for both handsets. Now, a follow-up of sorts is justified because of the passage of time.

First adopters like myself have had months to assess the handset's battery life and whether the new Ceramic Shield front really does provide extra protection. Nearly five months have also given me time to see MagSafe accessories and wireless chargers (good and bad) come to market and decide whether the new charging option is worth it.

A March iPhone review also gives me a chance to look at the iPhone 12 Pro Max and decide whether the "iPhone 13 Pro Max" and its rumored list of features means an upgrade is warranted this fall or a wait until 2022 is a better choice.

Here's our mid-year iPhone 12 Pro Max review.

The total package

iPhone 12 Pro Max: What I like

Since the Plus/Max era started with the iPhone 6 Plus in 2014, I've always chosen the largest new iPhone. The size was always the primary factor in making my decision, and honestly, I never cared much about the extras the bigger handset usually brought to the table.

I'm no camera expert and don't claim to be. And yet, there's no denying Apple has improved the iPhone camera systems over the years. Nowhere is this more noticeable than on the company's iPhone Pro 12 lineup, which includes three rear-facing cameras (wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto) instead of the two (wide and ultra-wide) the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini. When you dig deeper, you soon realize there are also subtle differences between the Pro camera systems this year.

These differences, along with the larger display size and better battery life, are what you get for the extra $100 Apple charges for the Pro Max across all storage levels over the Pro model.

The camera system

Camera buffs will appreciate the 2.5x optical zoom-in, 5x optical zoom range, and digital zoom of up to 12x found on the Max Pro. This compares to the Pro's still impressive 2x optical zoom-in, 4x optical zoom range, and digital zoom of up to 10x.

More zoom makes it possible to snap photos of further away objects, of course. However, the difference isn't that significant. Perhaps I'd think differently if I had a chance to take my long-scheduled Caribbean cruise last fall or the Las Vegas getaway that I hoped to schedule for February this year. With Covid, neither trip happened, so I really haven't had much of an opportunity to use my camera's zoom in any meaningful way.

When it comes to video recording, there are also minor differences between the two Pro models. The Pro Max offers sensor-shift optical image stabilization (OIS), plus the familiar 2.5x optical zoom-in and 2x optical zoom-out. Digital zoom is measured up to 7x. The iPhone 12 Pro comes with traditional optical image stabilization, 2x optical zoom-in, and digital zoom up to 6x.

Okay, but what does this all mean? Let's start with the Pro Max's 26mm f/1.6 wide-angle camera, which features 1.7-micron pixels versus the 1.4-micron pixels on the iPhone 12 Pro. This difference means more light is taken in when taking shots, while the sensor-shift OIS is what you find on many high-end cameras. With it, the lens doesn't float to cancel out the sensor movement. Instead, it's the sensor itself, making it both mechanically and optically better.

As Rene Richie explained in November, the camera upgrades make the iPhone 12 Pro Max a "low-light monster," and yet "not something you'll need or appreciate all the time." (Translation: You'll be impressed at night; in the daytime, not so much.)

Another camera difference between the Pro models comes from the telephoto lens, which measures 65mm on the Pro Max versus the Pro's smaller 52mm. That heftier telephoto lens means less distortion and more compression, making it ideal for taking portraits and product shots. The downside is its f/2.2 aperture, which isn't as good in low light as the iPhone 12 Pro's f/2.0 aperture.

Overall, the better camera features enhance the value of the Pro Max. And yet, these differences alone probably aren't enough to bring would-be Pro buyers to the Pro Max.

Now, about the display size

Now let's circle back around to the size difference between the two Pro models. While 0.6-inches diagonally doesn't sound like a lot, it can be, depending on your hand size. It's why you should look at both handsets in person side-by-side before making a choice. Even with my 6.46-inch iPhone 11 Pro Max, I used both hands to perform most functions. With the 6.7-inch iPhone 12 Pro Max, this necessity is even more apparent if for nothing more than to provide stability to a costly device.

I'm getting close to saying we've reached the size limit for iPhones. And yet, I think one final size leap on a future device is possible. Perhaps that will come on the 2022 Pro Max model or long-rumored foldable iPhone. Regardless, I'll take my usual place in the virtual line to get one.

Thumbs up to the battery

One early criticism about the iPhone 12 Pro was its smaller battery than the 2019 iPhone 11 Pro. The change resulted in, on average, one less hour of battery life during video playback. With the iPhone 12 Pro Max, Apple took the reverse approach. Because of the Max Pro's larger display (over the iPhone 11 Pro Max), Apple added a slightly larger battery here. The result: the Pro Max offers up to 20 hours between charges for video playback versus the 17 on the Pro. The difference isn't as noticeable when you stream video; 11 hours for the Pro Max and 10 hours for the Pro.

Over the years, Apple and other tech companies have tended to overpromise battery performance for new electronics, especially smartphones. I never considered this dishonest but overly optimistic that numbers achieved in a lab would translate into the real world.

In 2021, I expect my smartphone to survive the entire waking day without needing a battery charge. Over five months, my iPhone 12 Pro Max has consistently exceeded this expectation. By my count, I only have to charge my phone during the day 2-3 times per month. These days typically feature more texting, camera play, and video watching than average. Because of the fast charge, however, performing those rare daytime charges isn't a big deal.

It's been nearly 14 years since the first iPhone made its grand entrance and changed the world. Apple's top-selling product has changed considerably since then with each new release. But like all maturing products, the changes made year-to-year are much less noticeable than they once were. Despite this, Apple deserves kudos for most of the changes it made between the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro series.

Snappy

New iPhones always feel quicker than previous models thanks to upgraded internals. The A14 Bionic chip, which is also in the latest iPad Air, is a beast and lives up to Apple's claim it's "the fastest chip in a smartphone." Apple promises a 50% jump in performance and graphics, among other improvements. My iPhone 12 Pro Max hasn't slowed down since the day it arrived. It feels snappy, super responsive, and hasn't had any noticeable processing hiccups no matter what I throw at it.

Our friends over at Tom's Guide said it best; thanks to the A14 Bionic chip, "Android phones should just give up now."

An easy bet to make: The iPhone 12 Pro series will continue to feel like the best thing since sliced Wonderbread — until, like clockwork, its zippiness gets surpassed by the iPhone 13 series.

It still looks brand new

Soon after Labor Day each year, new cases begin arriving for Apple's newest handsets. Though I continue to use a case on each new iPhone, Apple's making it much harder to justify whether one is even needed anymore.

The latest iPhones come with a new Ceramic Shield that covers the front of the device. Made from nano-ceramic crystals, the material is placed inside the glass to provide 4x times the previous iPhone models' drop performance. Coupled with a surgical-grade stainless steel body, the Pro and Pro Max are considered the most durable Apple handsets to date. And yet, there's still room for improvement since the Matte glass on the back of the device doesn't include a Ceramic Shield, making it more vulnerable during falls.

I didn't do drop tests for my iPhone 12 Pro Max review, but you can find many online. These tests universally show Apple's Ceramic Shield isn't a gimmick and will protect your investment from falls of at least 6 feet, but probably less than 10 feet. It's a different story for the back, which will probably crack when dropped at a much lower height. It's because of this I still recommend cases for iPhones.

Because I never find myself 10 feet off the ground, I was pretty confident from day one that the front and back of my phone would stand up to regular use. I was less confident about the stainless steel on each side. My iPhones have made it a habit over the years to dive-bomb from chair arms onto the floor. These unfortunate missions have always led to minor scratches. So far, this hasn't happened with my Pro Max, even though it too likes to jump on the floor. Thanks, Apple!

What about 5G and LiDAR?

There's not much to say about 5G cellular that hasn't been said elsewhere; if you live in an area where it's available, great. Otherwise, you'll need to wait for your service provider to make the necessary changes to experience it. In terms of the iPhone 12 series, the support is there, which is good to know but probably doesn't mean much to most users in early 2021. No doubt, like 4G before it, 5G will get better in the coming years, as will the phones that support it.

My feelings about the Pro series' LIDAR sensor are also best described as reserved. I'm glad it's there and strongly suggest users check out LiDAR-supported apps. But, most users aren't getting a Pro model for LiDAR. That might change in the future as LiDAR's use grows, but not with today's handsets and tablets.

A tad too stuffy

iPhone 12 Pro Max: What I don't like

The iPhone 12 Pro Max is an exceptional smartphone and the best Apple has created to date. And yet, some things could be improved, starting with the glass-backing, which doesn't provide the same protection as the front of the device.

Perhaps my biggest gripe, however, has to do with the 12 series' biggest surprise, the MagSafe charging mechanism.

Similar (but not entirely the same) as the Apple Watch magnetic charger, MagSafe is built into the back of the iPhone for wireless charging. Unfortunately, you need a separate MagSafe Charger or a similar product to get the job done. I don't dislike the MagSafe concept as much; I've grown annoyed by how difficult it is to properly connect the iPhone to a compatible charger.

Apple says the magnetic connection is a snap and that's absolutely true when it happens right down to a groovy snapping sound. If you don't line everything up properly, you might fight with the magnets as they try to avoid one another. This difficulty is most noticeable at night, especially for those nearly blind without our glasses. It shouldn't be this difficult.

Similarly, I've noticed some third-party MagSafe chargers are even more problematic, as are compatible cases. Again, when both devices are lined up perfectly, MagSafe works as expected, right down to the snap and secure hold. And yet, it's not always seamless, and I'm still slightly annoyed that Apple charges extra for the MagSafe Charger.

Finally, let's briefly discuss the Pro Max's color options. There's nothing inherently wrong with the Silver, Graphite, Gold, and Pacific Blue choices. And yet, each is dull and muted when compared to the iPhone 12's brighter color options. Isn't it about time Apple gives us a (PRODUCT) RED Pro option? How about some lighter colors?

The competition

Short of going to the dark side and buying an Android-based device, there are only a few acceptable alternatives to the iPhone 12 Pro Max. Obviously, the 6.1-inch iPhone 12 Pro is the closest competitor. Besides offering a smaller display, fewer camera features, and less battery life, the Pro and Pro Max are identical. I'd say go with the Pro Max if you want a bigger screen and don't mind spending a little more money. Otherwise, go with the Pro.

If you want to save some more money and are okay with a 6.1-inch display, get the iPhone 12. It includes one less rear-camera and an aluminum body. And yet, it's similar to both Pro models by having the same chip, display, and more.

iPhone 12 Pro Max: Should you buy

You must have a telephoto, want the biggest display, and all-day battery life. LiDAR and a stainless steel frame are also nice, but you can get those on the Pro and save yourself some money.

If storage is also a major issue, only the Pro models start at 128GB and continue with 256GB and 512GB versions. The iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini start at 64GB and extend only to 256GB.

Besides, the latest iPhone 13 rumors don't suggest big changes are on the horizon in 2021. So far, it looks like the newer handsets will feature a 120Hz ProMotion display (like the current iPad Pro lineup) and slightly better camera systems. An "A15" chip is almost certain, but beyond this, the 2021 models aren't likely to be much different than the current lineup.

Cost is a big factor in making your decision. Mid-year, there are now sales popping up on all of the iPhone 12 series models. Still, prices aren't dropping by that much.

Finally, if you want the latest and greatest, your best bet might be to wait until fall. Both the iPhone 11 Pro Max and iPhone XS Max were discontinued only one year after release. The same fate could strike the iPhone 12 Pro series in just a few months.

With a name like Skyfall, this iPhone 12 Pro Max case from Caseology has got to look cool. In the design department, the Skyfall does live up to its cool name with sleek likes, a slim profile, and a shiny metallic bumper that is both protective and eye-catching. Caseology is known for creating high-quality and affordable cases; this one doesn't disappoint.

Whether you're looking for a clear case, a protective bumper, or a cool new look for your iPhone, the Caseology Skyfall offers a little bit of everything. There were a few little details I thought could use improvement, however. Below you'll find all the pros and cons of using this case with the iPhone 12 Pro Max.

Shiny protection

Caseology Skyfall: What I like

The first thing I noticed about the Caseology Skyfall case was the shiny metallic bumper covering the edges. This is a striking design element that really stands out and looks good alongside the clear back panel. The lower layer is made of a crystal clear TPU material that lets the iPhone 12 Pro Max shine through. This material also has a soft, supple texture that serves for more than good looks.

The clear inner layer provides the first layer of shock absorption, attributing to the case's high drop protection. The flexible material also makes installation easy; it stretches easily around the iPhone, but the fit is nice and snug once it's on. This is also the layer that incorporates raised edges around the screen and camera for added protection.

The outer bumper is the part that gives the case a cool look, but it also adds to the protective qualities of the case, reinforcing the edges and corners of the phone against hard drops and falls. Other benefits include wireless charging support and tactile, clicky built-in button covers.

Look out for scratches

Caseology Skyfall: What I don't like

While the shiny metallic bumpers are my favorite part of the Skyfall case design, I'm not sure how well they'll hold up to rough treatment. I've already noticed a few tiny hairline scratches along the corners. Granted, I am really rough on my iPhones, which is why I need a really tough case, but I've only used the case for a few weeks. I'm worried that over time, the scratches along the bumper will become more noticeable. Right now, the hairline scratches are barely visible, but I will update this review accordingly if the problem worsens over time.

I'd also appreciate a few more colorways for this case. The red color that I have is striking; it would look amazing on a black case. Since my iPhone is Pacific Blue, though, I would have loved a turquoise, light blue, or silver colorway to go with it. I'm hoping Caseology incorporates this into their lineup in the future because this a cool-looking case.

The competition

The Skyfall is a unique case in that it has a flexible clear core with colorful metallic bumpers. Very few cases share such a look, but the TORRAS Patronus Series comes close. The Patronus Series also has a clear layer that reveals the iPhone's back panel, along with a metallic bumper for added protection and eye-pleasing color. The TORRAS Patronus offers many of the same benefits as the Caseology Skyfall, but it is also more expensive. The Skyfall is the better deal of the two.

Caseology Skyfall: Should you buy

You appreciate good design at a good price.

The Caseology Skyfall is simple and attractive with clean lines and a striking appearance. Design junkies will appreciate how this case is made.

You like a natural look.

Although the bumpers are opaque, the black panel of this case is crystal clear, so the natural beauty of your iPhone 12 can still shine through.

You're in a hurry.

You won't have to waste time struggling to get this case on or off. It's super easy to install, and if you like to change cases often, it slips off easily as well.

You need good protection.

If you're rough on your iPhones, you can count on this case to keep it protected, even for heavy falls and drops.

You can't abide a scratch or two.

Over time, the metallic bumpers of this case may become scratched. If you drop your iPhone a lot, the corners of the case might not stay pristine long, but the iPhone itself will be safe and secure.

You have a Pacific Blue iPhone.

Although the red colorway looks fine on my Pacific Blue iPhone 12 Pro Max, I think a light blue/green or silver colorway would look better.

Overall the Caseology Skyfall is a good-looking case that provides rugged protection for your iPhone 12. It has a unique design that incorporates a pop of color around the bumpers and a clear backing to allow the iPhone's sleek look to show through. It feels good in the hand protects every surface of the iPhone if you happen to drop it.

If you drop it too often, that nice metallic bumper might develop some scratches over time, so keep that in mind if you're buying the case for protective reasons. It will definitely protect the iPhone, but it might show some damage if mistreated. If you're not a serial butterfingers and you love good design and shiny details, however, this is the case for you.

Finding a clear case for the iPhone 12 Pro Max is easy; there are plenty to choose from. Finding a clear case that is well-designed, easy on the eyes, and highly protective is not so easy. That's why I was pleased to discover that the Incipio Slim checks all those boxes and then some.

Incipio offers a large range of cases at a mid-tier price point, but the Slim model is the first I have owned by this brand. While it is not an ultra-slim case as one might expect, given the name, it does have a sleek profile for a highly protective case that promises 14-foot drop protection. Actually, it's one of the most attractive cases I've seen that offers this level of protection, and it has several transparent colorways that all show off the beauty of the iPhone 12 Pro Max in different ways.

After putting the Incipio Slim through its paces, I am highly pleased with the case overall. Below I'll lay out exactly how well it has performed on my own new iPhone, along with a few things that Incipio could improve.

Sleek, slick, and secure

Incipio Slim Case: What I like

Although it appears to be a simple, clear case at first glance, once I got it onto my iPhone 12 Pro Max, I could appreciate its slick design. The case is totally transparent with a subtle lilac tint that is not overpowering or distracting from the design. It also comes in a totally clear design depending on your preference. It looks good on the iPhone and feels good in your hand.

The silky smooth surface is pleasant to the touch but not too slippery. It has just enough of a rubbery texture to give the case a bit of grip. That rubbery surface is part of what gives the case its shock-absorbing protection. It's built with Incipio's Impact Struts Technology that reduces impact and keeps the iPhone snug and safe during the severest drops. There is also a prominent raised edge around the screen and camera for 360º heavy-duty protection along every surface of the phone. So far, all of this protective tech is working because, despite a few drops, there is not a mark on the case or my iPhone.

One unique design feature I noticed on the case is a set of tiny raised ridges on the back four corners of the case to elevate it slightly when set onto a flat surface. This adds extra protection for the lovely triple-lens camera and also prevents the case from sliding around on slick surfaces. I think it also keeps the soft, silky material on the back of the case from getting scratched.

Finally, I was pleased to find that the Incipio Slim works with a MagSafe charger. It doesn't support all MagSafe accessories, but it does allow for MagSafe charging, which is nice. I was surprised at this since the Incipio Slim is, in fact, not that slim. But that's a discussion for the next section.

Did you say Slim?

Incipio Slim Case: What I don't like

The name of this case is the Incipio Slim, so I'll admit I was expecting something more, well, slim. Don't get me wrong; this is not a bulky case by any stretch of the imagination. It is sleek and streamlined by design. The bumpers are considerable, though - a good four millimeters thick. For a case labeled slim, I would expect two millimeters or less. With that being said, I'm sure a super slim case would not be possible with 14-foot drop protection, so it's a good trade-off. It probably is the most minimal of all the cases Incipio makes, so I'll give them that.

The second thing that I don't love about this case is the fingerprints. Something about the soft, smooth texture attracts fingerprints. Even though the case is clear, you can see the fingerprints on it in the right light. This is not a dealbreaker for me, but it's something to be aware of if you plan to buy the Incipio Slim Case.

The competition

While there are plenty of clear cases out there, not many of them offer substantial shock protection. The Speck Presidio Perfect-Clear Case is one contender. This is another substantial protective case with a sleek form factor and transparent material. It also comes in several color tints in addition to perfectly clear.

The Speck Presidio is drop-rated up to 13-feet, so it's very similar to the Incipio Slim in both protection and appearance. This case is a bit more expensive than the Slim, though, making the Incipio Slim Case a better deal for the money.

Incipio Slim Case: Should you buy

You want a clear case that also provides protection.

You may hate the idea of covering up your gorgeous iPhone 12, but you want to keep it in pristine condition. The Incipio Slim is a great solution that lets the iPhone's beauty show through while providing robust protection.

Texture is important to you.

If the way your iPhone feels in-hand is important to you, you'll love the silky smooth texture of this case. It feels good to the touch and also provides some grip.

You use a wireless or MagSafe charger.

Most highly protective cases are not compatible with the MagSafe charger, but the Incipio Slim is an exception. The MagSafe charger will work perfectly well with this case.

You want an ultra-slim case.

The Incipio Slim is not big or bulky, but it's not super slim either. If you were expecting something that's a millimeter thin, this is not your case.

You hate fingerprints.

The case is clear, so the fingerprints aren't visible at all times. But if you look at it in a certain light, all of a sudden, there are a lot of fingerprints on the surface. So if you hate fingerprints, the Incipio Slim is not the case for you.

Regardless of a couple of fingerprints, I really like this case for the iPhone 12 Pro Max. It's super protective without adding much bulk or weight, and it feels lovely in the hand. The smooth texture is a pleasure to hold, and the sleek design looks pretty cool too. My lovely Pacific Blue iPhone is totally visible through the clear, lilac-tinged case.

I don't have to worry about the case sliding around on the table due to the smart way it was designed, and with 14-foot drop protection, I have no doubt it will keep my phone safe through any kind of rough treatment. Overall this is a great iPhone case both in form and function.

My first impression upon unboxing the Caudabe Sheath Case was that it was too thin to provide much protection for the iPhone 12 Pro Max. I usually use thick, rugged cases to protect my iPhones from my notorious butterfingers. After using the case for several weeks, however, I have been pleasantly surprised.

The slim, lightweight case is soft and supple to the touch, with a subtle, pebbled surface to provide superior grip. The Sheath is easy to hold onto, and even if you drop it, the iPhone will remain safe inside. I noticed that the case would show some scuff marks if you drop it repeatedly, but these are self-healing over time. Get all the details below.

Slim, grippy protection

Caudabe Sheath: What I like

I really enjoy the feel of this case. The Caudabe Sheath is made out of a supple material with plenty of bend and flexibility. This is what allows it to absorb impacts and shocks without any damage going through to the iPhone. The grippy surface feels good in your hand and won't slip out of your fingers. It also doesn't slip or slide around on smooth surfaces when you set it down.

The pliant construction of this case also makes it super easy to install and remove from the iPhone 12 Pro Max. It slips right on and off, so it's a great case for anyone who likes to change cases often. The Caudabe Sheath comes in six different colorways, so you can mix and match them whenever you like without any frustrating struggle during the switch.

While the case is pretty slim - about 1millimeter at its thinnest point - it still provides ample protection. I have already dropped the iPhone a few times in this case without any damage to the phone whatsoever. I did notice a few scuff marks on the case itself, however, which is what I'm going to get into in the next section.

Scuff and nonsense

Caudabe Sheath: What I don't like

I'm not going to deny that the Caudabe Sheath provides decent protection for the iPhone 12 Pro Max; so far, the iPhone has withstood some significant drops in this case with no damage. The case itself, however, is a different story. After a few hard drops, I did notice some scuff marks around the corners. These marks fade over time because the case has a soft, self-healing surface, but they are still slightly visible. The Caudabe brand does offer a hassle-free year-long warranty, though, so if any of the marks really start to bother me, I know the manufacturer will replace it. Overall, not too bad considering the affordable price tag on the Sheath Case.

The only other thing I noticed is that the Caudable Sheath doesn't fit quite as snugly as I would expect, especially considering its name. There is the tiniest gap between the edge of the case and the frame of my iPhone on the front edge. So far, this hasn't been an issue, but it makes me wonder if the case might slip off if dropped in a certain way. If this becomes more of a problem over time, I will update this review accordingly.

The competition

In general, iPhone cases are either slim or protective; it is rare to see one that features both of these benefits. There are a few contenders out there, of course. One of these is the Smartish Kung Fu Grip. The Kung Fu Grip also has a nice grippy feel, although this texture only extends over the sides of the case, not all the way across the back like the Caudabe Sheath.

The Kung Fu Grip has a similar slim profile, although the reinforced bumpers around the camera are more substantial. It also comes in similar colorways and offers a similar price point, so overall, the King Fu Grip and the Caudabe Sheath are both pretty good choices. Choosing between the two will depend on the texture and form factor you like better.

Caudabe Sheath: Should you buy

Your fingers tend towards the buttery.

Slippery butterfingers who drop their iPhones a lot (like me) will appreciate the pleasant grippy texture of the Caudabe Sheath. It's easy to hold onto and, even if it drops, the case will keep your iPhone safe.

You like a slim profile.

If you hate trying to jam a big, bulky iPhone case into your pocket, then you'll appreciate the slim profile of the Sheath Case.

You change cases a lot.

Do you like to change your case to match your outfit? If so, then you'll want a case like the Caudabe that's exceedingly easy to install and remove.

You seek perfection in all things.

Between the eventual scuff marks (for drop-prone users) and the slightly loose edges, this case may not be up to the standards of die-hard perfectionists.

The Caudabe Sheath brings a pleasing combination of slim grip and shock-absorbing protection that feels good in your hand. The soft, flexible material is textured for a grippy feel that lends itself to easy installation and removal. The case will keep your iPhone well-protected, but it may show scuff marks over time. Luckily, the soft material heals the look of scuff marks and damage over time, and the year-long warranty will cover a replacement if necessary.

Survivor Strong is an excellent name for this iPhone 12 Pro Max case that I received in the Lilac colorway. It is indeed quite strong, holding up beautifully under quite a few drops and falls. I'm rough on my iPhones, so it doesn't take me long to test out whether or not an iPhone case is protective or not. This one is not showing any scratches or dents so far (and neither is my iPhone!), so it is definitely a durable case.

This one also comes with a lifetime guarantee in case it doesn't perform as expected, which is always a nice bit of insurance when you buy a case. For the level of protection it offers, I consider the price to be quite reasonable. I'm not a big fan of the Lilac colorway, which does not look exactly as pictured on the website, but this could be due to the color calibration on my computer monitor. Either way, there are several other colors to choose from, so most buyers will likely find a good color match. Below I've listed some other pros and cons to consider.

Making a Strong case

Survivor Strong Case: What I like

My overall conclusion of the Survivor Strong is that it's an excellent protective case for the price. I've dropped the iPhone several times in this case, in my usual clumsy fashion, and there's not a scratch to be seen on the phone or the case. The product description claims 360º military-grade drop protection up to falls of 10 feet, and I believe it. The TPU construction is solid and feels like a quality, rigid material. You can also see by the raised edges around the screen and the camera that the handset will be protected no matter which side it falls on. This level of protection is rarely seen at this price point, so I think it's a good value for the cost.

On that note, this case also seems to be more scratch-resistant than the Survivor Endurance Case I tried before. That one did show some wear and tear after some rough treatment on my part, but the Survivor Strong doesn't have a mark on it. I'm not sure why, but the Survivor Strong is advertised as "scratch-resistant," so I guess this is something they built into the case material.

Although this case is undoubtedly on the thicker side, it's still a bit slimmer than the Survivor Endurance Case and feels a little more lightweight. It still has a bit of an industrial feel in the lines and design, but this aspect is more subtle in the Strong Case. My favorite part of the design is the clear backing that lends some color but allows the Apple logo to show through. This is unique among heavy-duty cases and an attractive design feature. I was not a big fan of the Lilac colorway, however, but I'll get into that in the next section.

Color clash concerns

Survivor Strong Case: What I don't like

As I mentioned before, I don't love the Lilac colorway of this case, and there are several reasons for that. One is that purple just doesn't go well with Pacific Blue, which I can't really blame on the manufacturer. It would probably look a lot more attractive on a lighter silver or gold iPhone 12 Pro. Another thing is that the color does not precisely match the shade on the website. The Lilac shade on the website looks a little more subtle, almost a purple-gray shade. Again, this could be my monitor, but I just don't think this color looks good on my Pacific Blue iPhone 12 Pro Max. If you have a Pacific Blue iPhone, choose a different shade of the Survivor Strong Case.

The other thing that gets on my nerves is that this case is pretty challenging to remove. Installation is not that hard; you just have to apply pressure in the right spot to pop the iPhone into the case. But when it comes time to take it off, a great wrestling match ensues. I was afraid that the struggle would damage my iPhone, but thankfully I removed the iPhone intact. Just plan on leaving this case on your iPhone long-term, and it shouldn't be a problem.

The competition

There aren't a lot of cases that offer this level of drop protection at this price, but Case-Mate does have a good contender. The Case-Mate Tough is another similar case with a full 10 feet of drop protection and raised edges to keep every surface of the iPhone safe. This one comes in several colorways, including clear, and it's offered at about the same price point. The look is a little different, and if you enjoy a more industrial design, you might prefer the Survivor Strong. Both of these are good cases for the price, however, and either one will provide excellent protection for the iPhone 12 Pro.

Survivor Strong Case: Should you buy

You need a good protective case for drops and falls.

If there's one thing that I can say with certainty, it's that the Survivor Strong Case will protect your iPhone 12 Pro Max. This case offers military-grade protection for drops of up to 10 feet, and so far, it has held up to these claims.

You like to show off that Apple logo.

The clear backing is a refreshing design feature that you don't always see in highly protective cases. The Apple logo shows through clearly.

You enjoy a good warranty.

The Survivor Brand provides a lifetime guarantee for this case, so if anything goes wrong, you can always get it replaced.

You have a Pacific Blue iPhone.

The Lilac colorway of the Survivor Strong Case is not a good match for a Pacific Blue iPhone. I think the black or clear variation would work much better with the iPhone 12 Pro in the Pacific Blue color.

You switch cases a lot.

The Survivor Strong Case is NOT easy to remove, so this might not be the right choice if you like to switch cases a lot.

The Survivor Strong Case offers good value for the price with heavy-duty drop protection, a robust scratch-resistant surface, and a cool design with a transparent backing. You can rest assured that your iPhone will be safe in this case, and, especially if you appreciate a subtle industrial look, the design is pretty cool too. The Lilac might not be the best choice of colorways for a Pacific Blue iPhone 12 Pro, but there are several other case colors to choose from. For a midline case that offers adequate protection at a reasonable price, the Survivor Strong is a good choice for the iPhone 12.

The OtterBox Symmetry Series is a classic OtterBox design that has been around now for a few years. They create a new line and new colorways for every new iPhone, however, and I'm loving the designs they've created for the iPhone 12 Pro Max. The Rock Candy Blue case is a vivid complement to my Pacific Blue iPhone 12 Pro Max.

Of course, no matter what color it is, every Symmetry Case comes with the military-grade, drop-proof protection that we've come to expect from OtterBox. I have tested this out extensively (although not on purpose, really), and it has held up no matter how hard I dropped it. In fact, after two months of heavy and clumsy usage, the case looks like it just came out of the box.

I've used the Symmetry Series case on my iPhone 12 Pro Max long enough now to find a few small disadvantages as well. I'll go into all of the pros and cons in this review.

A rainbow of vibrant options

OtterBox Symmetry Series: What I like

Bold, bright, and stylish, the OtterBox Symmetry series looks pretty dang good on the iPhone 12 Pro Max, especially the Pacific Blue colorway. In fact, that's one of the things I enjoy most about the Symmetry Series; the model offers loads of different color and style choices, from glittery clear cases to graphic patterns and flat matte colors. It's rare to see this many fun colors on a rugged protective case like this one.

And rugged it is, despite the sleek look. While this is certainly not an ultra-thin case as some of the OtterBox marketing seems to suggest, the Symmetry Case is definitely slimmer than other heavy-duty cases like the OtterBox Defender Series or the FRĒ by LifeProof. Regardless of its thinner profile, the Symmetry case has already held up beautifully after multiple hard drops and falls over the past few weeks. I never go more than a few days without dropping my phone, so I put this case through its paces. There's not a single mark or scratch to be seen on the Symmetry Case or my iPhone, even after a particularly rough drop onto concrete.

I also appreciate the antimicrobial coating since everyone knows that cellphones are hot spots for bacterial growth. Although it doesn't protect against viruses, at least I know that there's no bacteria living and growing on this case. Finally, the Symmetry Case is lightweight despite its proven durability, and the rubberized grippy edges make it less likely to drop out of my buttery fingers.

Did you say slim?

OtterBox Symmetry Series: What I don't like

After reading about how slim it was online, I was a bit surprised to find that the Symmetry Series case is not actually that thin. I mean, it's thin compared to the Defender Series for sure, but it's not exactly what I would define as a 'slim' case. The border extends almost five millimeters outside the edge of the phone, so it still has some girth to it. I suppose this is necessary to the high level of protection that OtterBox provides, so I certainly don't mind overmuch.

The case was not exactly easy to install and remove, either. Don't get me wrong; once the case is on the iPhone 12 Pro Max, it melds with the handset in a fit so snug they become one well-protected unit. But that snug fit did require quite a bit of effort, turning, pressing, and practically forcing the iPhone into the case. It's not super easy to pry off either, so I would recommend making this case a long-term choice.

The competition

Most cases that offer the level of protection that OtterBox provides are priced much higher. Urban Armor Gear comes in at about the same price point, however, and they have a line of rugged cases that are industrial in both look and feel. One of their slimmer options that is a little more sleek and simple like the Symmetry Series is the UAG Civilian Case. This one has a simple outline with a few interesting color options. While the Civilian Case has fewer colors to choose from than the Symmetry Series, it offers the same level of protection at the same price.

OtterBox Symmetry Series: Should you buy

You like bright colors and fun prints.

No other rugged protective case on the market offers so many fun colors, interesting patterns, and unique design options. The Symmetry case comes in all sorts of styles, and you can even order one with a built-in PopSocket if you like.

You're rough on your iPhone.

As expected with any OtterBox case, the Symmetry Series will protect your iPhone no matter where or how hard you drop it. Concrete is no match for this tough little case.

You're worried about germs.

The antimicrobial coating on this case is the icing on the cake. Along with world-class drop protection, you can expect germ protection as well.

You were expecting an ultra-thin case.

The Symmetry Series is slimmer than many rugged cases, but it is not a very thin case overall.

You want to change cases often.

Since it takes some considerable effort to install and remove the Symmetry case, be aware that it works better as a long-term iPhone case.

The Symmetry Series by OtterBox offers excellent protection, lots of fun colorways, and an antimicrobial coating in a sleek, modern design. It looks beautiful on the iPhone 12 Pro Max. I like the vivid Rock Candy Blue for my Pacific Blue iPhone, but there are scores of other designs and patterns to choose from in this series. Although it's not an ultra-slim case, it has a pretty sleek design for offering rugged, military-grade protection. You can also count on the antimicrobial coating to keep the case free of yucky germs.

What you need to know

• Apple has debuted its Shot on iPhone film for Chinese New Year.
• The short film, titled Nian, was shot on the iPhone 12 Pro Max.

Apple has shared its new Shot on iPhone film to celebrate Chinese New Year. The short film, titled Nian, is described as a "contemporary coming-of-age story" and popped up on the company's YouTube channel late on Thursday evening.

The film was shot using the iPhone 12 Pro Max, Apple's latest flagship iPhone that was released back in November. The film was directed by Lulu Wang, best known for The Farewell and Touch.

The film also features an original score by Alex Weston, who also composed the score for The Farewell.

You can check out the new Shot on iPhone short film Nian below:

In addition to premiering the new film, Apple also shared a behind the scenes look at the story and how the cast and crew brought it to life using the iPhone. Director Lulu Wang shows how she turned the iPhone 12 Pro Max into a true cinema camera.

Composer Roman Senyk, known for his work on The Match Stick Flame, provided music for the video. Check out the behind the scenes look at Nian below:

What you need to know

• Apple has debuted a trailer for a new short film shot on iPhone to celebrate the Chinese New Year.

A new trailer has appeared for Apple's short 'Shot on iPhone' film 'A Nian' created in celebration of the Chinese New Year using an iPhone 12 Pro Max.

Posted to the company's official WeChat channel, the film was noted by China Times:

Translation aside, it appears the film 'A Nian' was directed by Wang Ziyi, who has behind the 2020 Golden Globe nominee 'Don't tell her.' The report notes that the message of the film is 'Do you believe in legend?' The new film was shot exclusively on iPhone 12 Pro Max and will be released on Friday, January 29.

With the Chinese New Year and Lunar holiday festivities upcoming, many Apple manufacturers are reportedly trying to keep workers from traveling home by offering incentives as fears a repeat of last year's labor shortage could strike.

As a serial breaker of phones, I've always thought my only choices for iPhone cases were huge, bulky, and super expensive. I've been shelling out big bucks for years on the best rugged cases, but after trying out the Caseology Legion, my mind has been opened to new and much more affordable possibilities.

The Caseology Legion is a sharp-looking case with multiple lines of protective defense. Despite its protective qualities, the case is not very thick or bulky like most protective cases, and it comes in several colorways that complement the iPhone 12 Pro colors beautifully. It also has an antimicrobial coating to fight germs, so all in all, this is a pretty complete package. When you consider the price point of the Caseology Legion alongside all that it comes with, this is a pretty dang affordable case.

Cool design + grippy protection

Caseology Legion: What I like

Pacific Blue is not the easiest color to complement, so not every case looks good on my iPhone 12 Pro Max. I was surprised by how perfectly the Stone Green colorway of the Caseology Legion matches the Pacific Blue iPhone. This case and iPhone look like they were made for each other. My favorite part of the case is the polycarbonate panel on the back that brightens up the case with a lighter, metallic shade. When combined with the grippy TPU bumpers, it's an eye-catching design that looks sharp. Besides its good looks, this case does its job surprisingly well.

While it's not ultra-thin, this case is pretty slim for offering military-grade protection. The TPU layer has reinforced corners and a raised lip around both the screen and camera, so this will protect your iPhone no matter where you drop it. The case has been drop-tested from up to 16 feet with no damage, and although I've only dropped it from distances from 4-feet or so, the shock protection seems to be holding up just fine. There's not a scratch or dent to be seen on the case. The rough, grippy protection around the sides adds to this protective quality, since the iPhone is not likely to slip or slide around.

The antimicrobial coating is always a plus in this day and age, so I'm certainly happy to know I'm not toting a ton of germs around on the surface of my iPhone. With all of these benefits along with the quality look and feel of the Caseology Legion, I find the price point extremely affordable. It's the least expensive case I've owned that offered this level of drop protection, and so far it has lived up to all its claims of protection and quality design.

Sticky fingers beware

Caseology Legion: What I don't like

When you have kids, messes are pretty unavoidable. My poor iPhones and their cases have to weather any number of spills and accidents on a daily basis, so I find myself cleaning them up often. It didn't take long to notice that dirt and dust accumulate in the spaces and grooves of the Legion case. Small gaps around the buttons and polycarbonate panel can become filled with gunk that is not super easy to remove.

On that same note, the grippy, sandpapery material on the bumpers can also be difficult to clean because of the rough texture. If some sticky little fingers rub chocolate all over the edges of this case, it can take quite a scrubbing to clean up. Of course, not everyone is subjecting their iPhones to dirty children, so this may not be a problem for you. It is just something to consider for parents or other messy individuals.

The competition

There's plenty of grippy, protective cases to choose from, but few of them offer 16-foot drop protection in the same price range. One very similar offering is the Smartish Gripzilla which has a similar makeup - super grippy bumpers combined with a smooth top layer in a variety of interesting colorways. This case also claims military-grade drop protection and reinforced corners for all types of drops. Although I don't love the color choices of this case as well for my Pacific Blue iPhone, this is also a good protective case that offers many of the same benefits at a similar price point.

Caseology Legion: Should you buy

You drop your iPhone a lot.

With 360º drop protection up to 16 feet, you won't have to worry about drops and shocks to your iPhone when it's in this case. It also has rough grippy edges so the Legion case is less likely to slide out of your hand or off the table.

You're on a budget.

The excellent price point of the Caseology Legion is pretty surprising when you consider the high-quality materials, military-grade drop protection, and antimicrobial coating. It's a full package for a tidy low price.

You have a Pacific Blue iPhone 12 Pro.

The Stone Green colorway of the Caseology Legion Case is a perfect match for Apple's Pacific Blue iPhone 12 Pro. The metallic polycarbonate plate in a lighter color is also a very nice touch. It's a great-looking combination for an iPhone, but especially the Pacific Blue colorway.

You are super messy.

While the TPU Legion case is waterproof and spill-proof just like the iPhone 12, it's not the easiest case to clean. Dirt and dust can collect in its gaps and grooves, so this may not be the best case for messy or dirty situations.

You let your kids put their sticky fingers all over your iPhone.

Parents beware, if your kids touch this case with sticky little fingers, it can be hard to scrub the gunk out of the grippy bumpers. Maybe keep this case reserved for clean hands only.

For a combination of military-grade protection, grippy texture, and attractive design, you won't find a better iPhone case in this price range. The Caseology Legion has opened my eyes to new possibilities for iPhone protection - possibilities that won't hit the bank account so hard. I also love how it looks on my Pacific Blue iPhone 12 Pro Max. The metallic polycarbonate layer is a very cool touch.

I have had a hard time keeping this case pristinely clean, so I'm enacting a clean-hands-only rule for kids that want to use my iPhone. So far it's working, as is this case in general. I'm thinking the Caseology Legion is tough enough keep working for me well into the future.

Survivor is a part of Incipio Group, the same leading tech solutions provider that makes high-quality products like Incipio, Incase, and Griffin Technology. Like all Incipio Group brands, Survivor products are made with high-quality, reliable materials that are both protective and easy on the eyes. The Endurance Case lives up to the brand's reputation with a full 14 feet of drop protection and high-tech features like antimicrobial protection that kills harmful bacteria and viruses on contact. Since I got this case in 2020, that attribute sounded pretty good!

After using the case for several weeks, I can attest to its protective value and a few aspects that could use improvement. Here's a rundown of the pros and cons I found while using the Survivor Endurance Case:

Parametric patterns and complimentary colors

Survivor Endurance Case: What I like

If you're like me and you've broken a few iPhones in your day, then you probably look at drop protection first when considering which phone case to buy. That's the first thing I noticed about the Survivor Endurance Case — 14 feet! That's more than double the standard for military-grade protection. This is evident in the high raised edges that extend over the screen and camera. As always, I ended up dropping the phone within days of installing the case on my iPhone 12 Pro Max, and it certainly does keep the iPhone safe and sound, even for significant cringe-worthy drops. I've dropped it from about four feet with no damage whatsoever to my iPhone, but the case is not unmarked. I'll go more into that in the next section.

Design-wise, this is a good-looking case with bezels and angles that give it an industrial feel. There are several colorways available; mine is pink with interesting blue details around the edges. Buttons and details in a soft complementary color are incorporated into all four colorways, and I think this is a nice touch. The parametric pattern around the edges has a cool look to it, but it's a lot more than decoration. This pattern enhances your grip on the phone and contributes to the shock-proof technology that makes the case so protective.

Antimicrobial technology is also an important factor for iPhone cases in today's world. This is an antibacterial coating that prevents bacteria from living or growing on the surface of the case. Since iPhones are prone to pick up a ton of bacteria as we carry them everywhere we go, this is important to prevent the spread of bacteria and harmful microbes to our hands and homes. It's definitely a big plus for me.

Drop protection with a cost

Survivor Endurance Case: What I don't like

I've tested many protective cases, and I've seen a wide range of results, from total fails to virtual indestructibility. This one falls somewhere in the middle. Don't get me wrong, it will protect your phone, but it might not hold up perfectly in the process. After a few significant drops, I'm noticing a few dents and abrasions around the edges of this case. For someone like me, who constantly drops and abuses their iPhone, I'm not sure that this case will hold up and look decent for more than a few months. With that being said, the brand does offer a lifetime guarantee, so I suppose I could trade it in for a new one if the dents and scratches really started to bother me. At this price point, that seems like a pretty good deal.

Another slight annoyance are the tiny stains on the corners where the phone has been dropped against concrete. It seems to discolor or stain easily when dropped. This is only noticeable because I have the light pink case, so if you're going to buy this case, I would suggest choosing a darker shade or a gray colorway, so the slight stains don't show if you drop it.

The competition

The competition is pretty fierce in this category, but most cases in this price range do not provide the antimicrobial coating. Protective TPU cases with anti-shock technology and grippy textures are pretty easy to find, but most of them don't offer antibacterial properties. The Metropolis Lt Case by Urban Armor Gear is a good example. It's highly shock-absorbent with drop protection up to 12 feet and a grippy texture, but it is not antimicrobial. If this feature is important to you, the Survivor Endurance Case is an excellent choice.

Survivor Endurance Case: Should you buy

You're a germaphobe.

You gotta love that antimicrobial coating. No matter where your iPhone goes with you, this case will prevent your iPhone from collecting tons of bacteria and microbes on its surface.

You tend to drop your iPhone.

A combination of grippy parametric edges and 14-foot drop protection will keep your iPhone safe and protected in this case, no matter how often you drop it.

You use a wireless iPhone charger.

Although it's not MagSafe compatible, this case works perfectly well with a standard wireless charger, a unique feature among heavy-duty protective cases.

You can't abide a scratch or two.

Those who drop their phones daily may quickly notice a few dents or abrasions on this case. It will protect the iPhone but may take a little damage in the process.

You prefer light-colored cases.

Because of its tendency to become discolored when dropped, I wouldn't suggest buying this case in a light color.

Overall, the Survivor Endurance is a good protective case for the price. No matter how often or how hard you drop the iPhone, this case will keep every surface protected. Its raised edges protect the camera and screen while a grippy texture helps you keep ahold of the iPhone. What's more, the antimicrobial coating prevents 99.9% of surface bacteria, so you don't have to worry about bringing dirty germs into your house.

Although the case does tend to dent and scratch slightly if you mistreat it, it also offers a lifetime warranty, so you can replace it if necessary. I also suggest choosing one of the darker or gray colors since the pink shade discolors slightly if you drop it too much. Again, you can always cash in that lifetime warranty if this happens, but with a darker color, it wouldn't be a problem.

The first time I tried a tempered glass screen protector was several years ago when they first came into popularity. The protector seemed brittle and weak; it cracked within the first few days of use. Since then I have chosen to use the plastic film variety of protectors, since I knew they wouldn't crack on me. They are prone to scratches and fingerprints, however, so I never was very satisfied. Recently I decided to try another tempered glass protector and settled on the Caseology Screen Protector because of its glowing reviews. I'm glad I did; this screen protector has totally changed the game for me!

The Caseology Tempered Glass Screen protector fits my iPhone 12 Pro Max perfectly, and thanks to the handy installation kit that comes in the package, it was easy to install. Putting it on my new iPhone was ridiculously easy when I followed the instructions, without a single air bubble or mote of dust trapped underneath. I've been using it now for over a month, and I've recorded my observations below.

That silky, smooth feeling

Caseology Screen Protector: What I like

The first thing I noticed when I took the Caseology screen protector out of the box was the multi-step installation kit. At first, it seemed a bit complicated, but once I read the simple instructions, I realized it wasn't much of a process. Installation requires cleaning the screen, wiping away the dust, setting the installation guide into place, and removing a few stickers. After installation, I didn't even need the included squeegee because there were no bubbles that needed to be squeezed out. The plastic guide ensured that the glass protector was positioned perfectly on the screen, with little to no chance for error. It's the best installation process I've ever seen for a screen protector, and I've been using them since 2010.

After I had it attached securely to my iPhone 12 Pro Max, I was surprised and pleased by the feel of it. The coating is silky and smooth under your fingertips. Call me crazy, but I swear this screen protector feels more responsive than the actual original iPhone screen. I think it has to do with the way my fingers move over the surface so smoothly, but it's beyond responsive to my touch. This smooth coating also makes it resistant to fingerprints, so I haven't found myself cleaning and polishing the screen as often as I normally would. Of course, it is also crystal clear and doesn't affect the beautiful graphics displayed by my iPhone.

Since my first unfortunate experience with glass screen protectors, I've been wary that they scratch and shatter too easily, but this is not the case with the Caseology Tempered Glass Screen Protector. It's rated with 9H surface hardness, which seems to be pretty tough. I've dropped the phone a few times since I've had it on and haven't seen any visible damage to the surface, no cracks or scratches in sight. This is encouraging, and I'll be sure to update this post in the future if anything changes.

Lookin' a bit thick

Caseology Screen Protector: What I don't like

To be honest, it was kind of difficult to come up with disadvantages to using this screen protector. It has been an excellent experience so far. The only thing I could come up with is that the screen protector seems a tad bit thick compared to others I've used. Granted, I've mostly used plastic films, so of course glass would seem a little thicker. But because it is a little thicker than the other screen protectors I've used, I can see the edges a bit more. You can definitely see that there's a screen protector in place, but might not notice unless you looked for it. Finally, the edges of the screen protector seem to attract tiny dust particles. They don't attach to the surface but they do gather around the edges, so I have to dust off the edges now and then. Overall, not a bad list of cons when compared to the positive experience I've had with this screen protector.

Caseology Screen Protector: Should you buy

You want the most responsive touchscreen.

This is the first time I've used a screen protector that actually seems to increase the responsiveness of my iPhone's touchscreen. The smooth-as-silk surface feels good under your fingers and lends itself to ultra responsiveness for all types of taps and gestures.

You need an easy installation.

If you're like me, it can be ridiculously difficult to lay that screen protector on your iPhone in juuust the right spot. The included installation guide frame from Caseology will make it impossible not to. Or if bubbles and dust are the banes of your existence, you will appreciate the foolproof installation kit that's included with the Caseology screen protector.

You hate fingerprints.

The iPhone 12 comes with an extra-strong ceramic-shield screen, but it still attracts fingerprints as much as ever. Those who can't stand those smudges and fingerprints need the nano coating that's built into the Caseology Tempered Glass Screen Protector. It won't show fingerprints and repels dust on the surface.

You want the thinnest, most minimal screen protector available.

For those who prefer ultra-thin, virtually invisible films as screen protectors, the Caseology tempered glass may not be the perfect fit. It is thick enough that you can feel and see it, but not so thick as to look unattractive. This is not the thinnest of the thin screen protectors, however.

This is an excellent choice for accident-prone individuals who tend to drop and scratch their iPhone screens. At a 9H hardness rating, it will stand up to a lot of rough treatment. Not only is it tough, it is smooth and responsive to the touch and won't impede the graphics of your display in any way. This screen protector is a tad bit on the thicker side, as far as screen protectors go, but this did not affect the look or feel of the screen protector for me.

Finally, a tempered glass screen protector that won't shatter and break the first time you drop it! It's tough and super scratch resistant. I haven't managed to put so much as a hairline scratch on it in over a month of use. You'll appreciate the easy installation, silky smooth surface, and unmatched responsiveness of this screen protector from Caseology. The Caseology Tempered Glass Screen Protector exceeded my expectations and performs even better than I had hoped.

Talk about a conversation case! The PITAKA Aramid Fiber Magnetic Case looks cool, feels cool, and actually is pretty cool when you look at what it's made of. Aramid fiber is a ballistic-rated synthetic fiber that is used for aerospace construction and body armor. With this stuff on your phone, it will be rendered literally bullet-proof. The fiber is woven together in a way that looks like carbon fiber, which looks pretty snazzy on the iPhone 12 Pro Max, especially the Graphite and Silver colorways.

While the case may be bullet-proof, it is surprisingly light and thin - one of the slimmer cases I've ever put on my iPhone. Despite its thin profile, I feel pretty good about the protective qualities of the PITAKA case. This manufacturer also builds a thin strip of magnetic metal into the case, so it works with various magnetic and mounting accessories. And don't worry, it doesn't impede MagSafe charging at all! The PITAKA offers a good all-around protective case, although there were a couple of things I wasn't thrilled with. I'll go into all of that below.

Bullet-proof & slim

PITAKA MagEZ Case: What I like

I usually go for big, ultra-protective cases on my iPhones since I'm prone to drop and break my phones. The PITAKA case is the thinnest case I've seen that also offers heavy-duty protection. At 0.03 inches, it's among the thinnest cases available but much more protective than others in this class. One might assume that a bullet-proof material would also be heavy, but it is not. It is hard and tough to the touch but still very lightweight.

As far as texture goes, I like the smooth yet grippy feel of the aramid fiber. The woven texture is very subtle and feels smooth but not slippery. It's not a case that will slide out of your hand easily. That woven aramid fiber also looks very cool, like carbon fiber. A few people have asked me if it's carbon fiber, so it's definitely a conversation piece. The gray and black pattern doesn't go as well with my Pacific Blue iPhone, but it would look amazing on the Graphite or Silver edition. The look is modern, simple, and upscale.

When I realized the case had built-in magnetic strips, I was worried that the PITAKA case might not be compatible with MagSafe, but thankfully, it is compatible. The metal strips are placed in such a way that they do not impede MagSafe charging. The MagSafe charger snaps right on and charges through the thin material. Although I haven't tried any of them yet, PITAKA offers a ton of seriously cool aramid fiber accessories that work with the magnetic case, like magnetic wallets, car mounts, and a range of aramid fiber charging tools.

Because this case is so pleasing to look at, I wish there were more colors that complemented different hues of iPhone, but I'll go into that in the next section.

Sticky fingers be warned

PITAKA MagEZ Case: What I don't like

As I mentioned before, I'd love to see this case available in more colors. Most people probably do prefer black and gray shades, but this is not the best color to match with my Pacific Blue iPhone. I think a few more colorways would make this case a great companion for any iPhone. If they release this case in white, silver, or gold, I'll be the first in line to buy one.

Another thing I noticed was that the silky smooth surface of the case seems to attract fingerprints. I would have thought the aramid fiber texture would repel fingerprints and smudges, but this is not the case. I find myself cleaning and polishing the case several times a day. While this is certainly no dealbreaker for me, it might be a slight annoyance for perfectionists.

The competition

The only real contender with the PITAKA case is a similar case from Mous that is also constructed from aramid fiber. The Limitless 3.0 case in aramid fiber is also highly protective, although it's not as slim. The Mous case has a bit of a bulkier build, and it's not constructed fully out of aramid fiber. Instead, it features a back panel made out of aramid fiber, which lends it the same cool woven look and smooth texture. This case is not as slim as the PITAKA, but it is equally as protective. It comes in at a similar price range, so this will depend on whether or not you prefer a slim or a hefty case profile.

PITAKA MagEZ Case: Should you buy

You want your phone to be bullet-proof.

Military-grade is one thing, but then there's ballistic-grade aramid fiber protection. Here we have cool-factor alongside heavy-duty protection in a tidy lightweight case.

You like a slim profile.

Most shockproof iPhone cases are thick and bulky, but PITAKA delivers high-quality protection in an incredibly thin and lightweight form factor. You won't find another case this slim with the same level of drop protection.

You appreciate a modern, high-tech look.

Aramid fiber is woven together much like carbon fiber, so it has the same high-tech black and gray tapestry of texture. It looks stylish and feels good in your hand.

You love matching accessories.

Between aramid fiber charging docks, cables, magnetic wallets, and high-tech car mounts, you could happily drop an entire paycheck on matching accessories for your PITAKA case. If you love a good matching accessory, you'll find no end of shopping opportunities at PITAKA.

You can't abide fingerprints.

A fingerprint or two on a phone case is not a dealbreaker for me, but if you need pristine perfection around you at all times, the fingerprint-attracting texture of the PITAKA case might bother you.

You want your case to match your colorful iPhone.

While the PITAKA case looks amazing on black, gray, or silver iPhones, those who have a more colorful iPhone might not appreciate the one black and gray color choice offered by PITAKA.

Heavy-duty protection in a thin, lightweight profile is rare among iPhone cases, making this a unique solution for anyone who's been looking for a case that's both protective and slim. Add to that the high-tech look of woven aramid fiber, and you have a seriously cool case on your hands. Think twice, though, if you're the type that can't abide a smudge or two since this case does show fingerprints and smudges on the surface.

Although I'm waiting for PITAKA to release a few more colorways for this aramid fiber case, I love how it looks on my iPhone 12 Pro Max. It also has a good feel - smooth and hard with just enough texture to give you a good grip. It's the slimmest case you'll find anywhere that also offers high-quality protection, ballistic-grade, no less! I personally don't mind polishing off the fingerprints that tend to appear on its surface, but this might prove annoying to some people. It's by no means cheap, but I don't think I'd trust the quality of an aramid fiber case if it didn't have a price tag that reflected the materials' quality. As soon as you see and feel this case, you'll understand why it's priced that way. Overall a good value for the price and a cool-looking, high-performance case that won't add any bulk or weight to your iPhone.

Update: Since I published this article, PITAKA has released a new line of aramid fiber colors for this case. You can see them here.

iPhone 12 Pro Max vs. Galaxy S20 Ultra: Key Differences

When it comes to the greatest and latest hardware, you can't get much better than the iPhone 12 Pro Max and the Galaxy S20 Ultra. Both of these smartphones offer the latest and greatest in cellphone photography, with the iPhone 12 Pro Max taking a slight lead when it comes to video quality. The Galaxy S20 Ultra wins the show when it comes to digital zoom and visual performance, however, and both devices offer excellent processors and battery life. The deciding factor may simply be which ecosystem you prefer — Android or Apple. Let's have a look at what these phones are working with.

If you're going by straight specs, the Galaxy actually looks a little better on paper. However, some of those spectacular specs don't quite live up to the hype when you look at actual results. For example, the Galaxy claims 8K video, but the iPhone 12 actually produces superior video quality. Get all the dirty details below before you decide. So, let's look at both options a little more in-depth.

Design: More options on the iPhone 12 Pro Max

When it comes to design, both the Galaxy S20 Ultra and the iPhone 12 Pro Max have a similar structure — a stainless steel frame with a tough glass exterior. The iPhone may prove slightly more durable because of the new ceramic shield built into the display glass. This extra-strong material provides four times more drop protection than previous iPhones and other smartphone models. The Galaxy is housed in Gorilla Glass 6, though, which is also pretty dang resilient.

The Galaxy does have a slightly bigger screen at 6.9 inches, and it doesn't have any black notch to besmirch its beautiful display. The tradeoff is that iPhone uses that annoying little notch to provide Face ID, which is a pretty handy feature that the Galaxy doesn't have. The Galaxy S20 Ultra is also noticeably heavier than its iPhone counterpart. Neither phone has a headphone jack, but the Galaxy does come with a pair of earphones and a USB-C charging adapter, while the iPhone 12 Pro Max doesn't provide either. Of course, here we have another tradeoff; the iPhone 12 does have a cool built-in MagSafe magnet that has only begun to see its potential.

Both smartphones are slim and slick when it comes to simple looks, but the iPhone provides four color options to the Galaxy's basic two. If you're the type that always buys a black phone, this may not be an issue, but I like to try out fun new colors from time to time.

Functionality: Better graphics on the Galaxy S20 Ultra

If you compare the Galaxy S20 Ultra and iPhone 12 Pro Max for sheer speed and performance, the Galaxy will come out ahead with its vivid AMOLED display, higher refresh rate, and huge RAM capacity. However, the iPhone 12's A14 Bionic chip is definitely the winning processor, so the difference in performance won't be as marked as one might think. The Galaxy will mostly pull ahead during video playback and gameplay since the higher refresh rate will make for incredibly smooth graphics.

As for battery life, the iPhone 12 Pro Max pulls ahead with 20 hours of video playback, but the Galaxy S20 Ultra makes up for this with 45W fast charging capability. The Galaxy can charge from zero to 100 in a single hour, while the iPhone 12 needs double that time to charge fully, even with the new USB-C adapter. This is a pretty important advantage for those who spend a lot of time commuting or traveling.

As is always the case when it comes to Android versus iOS, the major differences in functionality are revealed in the interface and ecosystem. Because of Apple's seamless integration between Mac, iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and now a range of smart-home gadgets, it's hard to compete with the Apple ecosystem. Messages, Airdrop, and FaceTime are all attractive features if your friends and family are all using Apple products. Now Apple Pay allows users to send each other fast cash transfers using the Messages app. If you and your loved ones are part of this ecosystem, it won't be easy to leave it behind. Android offers excellent performance and usability, but the ecosystem is simply not as powerful.

Camera: iPhone 12 Pro Max and Galaxy S20 Ultra are neck and neck

When you start comparing the photography and video capabilities of the Galaxy S20 versus the iPhone 12, it becomes even more difficult to pinpoint a clear winner. Once again, the Galaxy looks better on paper with a shocking 108MP main camera and 100X digital zoom. Whoever heard of such a thing on a smartphone? Well, no one, and that's because these features are difficult for the average user to pull off. While the Galaxy's quad-lens camera has some impressive specs, these are not always evident in the imagery it produces.

For example, the 100X digital zoom loses so much quality after about 30X that it loses appeal. Up until 30X, however, the digital zoom on the Galaxy gains an advantage over the iPhone. When you compare optical zoom, both smartphones offer telephoto lenses for true optical zoom up to 2.5X, with a hybrid optical zoom that produces great results up to 5X. When comparing the two, the iPhone's optical zoom has a slightly larger view and more reliable results. However, after 10X zoom, the Galaxy pulls way ahead with impressive digital zoom that remains of a decent quality up to 30X.

Both cameras offer night mode, but when comparing images shot in low light, the iPhone's camera sensor truly excels with a beautiful range of light and color, even in dark shadows. Ultra-wide photos also tend to turn out better on the iPhone 12 Pro Max, while the Galaxy S20 Ultra can provide greater details and crisper landscapes in standard lighting. The Galaxy can also shoot 108MP photos, although they can be a challenge to focus correctly and result in massive file sizes.

Overall, the Galaxy does offer some clear advantages for still photography, but the iPhone pulls ahead when it comes to video. Why? Because of DolbyVision. The iPhone 12 Pro Max is the only smartphone to offer DolbyVision video with an impressive range of built-in editing capabilities. This is a game-changer for videographers who want to shoot quick, high-quality videos on a smartphone that can be edited and exported in a matter of minutes.

The bottom line is, photographers will love the high resolution and zoom capacity of the Galaxy S20 Ultra. Still, videographers will likely prefer the iPhone 12 Pro Max with its DolbyVision and editing features.

Price Lineup between Galaxy S20 Ultra and the iPhone 12 Pro Max

For once, the iPhone is not the most expensive choice. If you're purchasing an unlocked phone with 128GB storage capacity, the Galaxy S20 Ultra will cost you $1249 big ones compared to $1,099 for the iPhone 12 Pro Max. The Galaxy offers a larger size, a quad-lens camera, and a few extra accessories in the box for this price. As you increase storage capacity, the two phones become more comparable in price.

iPhone 12 Pro Max vs. Galaxy S20 Ultra Which one should you get?

If you compare the iPhone 12 Pro Max and the Galaxy S20 Ultra spec by spec, the Galaxy looks like the better smartphone. The Galaxy is bigger, with a higher resolution camera and better playback graphics. This phone offers high-speed performance and beautiful still photos with the capacity to shoot video in 8K, despite some stabilization issues. It comes with earphones and a fast-charging adapter in the box, and the price tag reflects all this.

If you love bells, whistles, seamless gameplay, and lightning-fast performance, you'll love the Galaxy S20 Ultra. However, despite the better specs on the Galaxy, the iPhone 12 Pro Max performs better in several areas. For one thing, better sensors on the iPhone provide Face ID, incredible low-light photos, and amazing DolbyVision video capture with integrated editing capabilities. Add that to a state-of-the-art processor and longer battery life, and the iPhone begins to look like a real contender, lower specs or no.

Your final decision will likely depend on your ecosystem preferences. If you have other Apple products, or if your friends and family are all using iPhones, then the Apple ecosystem provides many clear advantages for convenience, device integration, and social interactions. At the end of the day, it comes down to the Big Question: Android or iOS? That's a question only you can answer.

What you need to know

• The iPhone 12 Pro Max was the most popular iPhone 12 model in the launch weeks.
• iPhone 12 mini came out the least popular.

Reported by Flurry Analytics, the iPhone 12 Pro Max has easily outperformed the rest of Apple's iPhone 12 lineup in sales during their combined launch weeks. Despite being released a month after the first iPhone 12 models, the iPhone 12 Pro Max reached a 1% install base when compared to the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro's combined 0.8%.

The report also notes that the iPhone 12 mini has so far come out as the least popular model of the iPhone 12 lineup with a 0.12% install base during its launch week. Flurry says that this will most likely change over time as people purchase the smaller iPhone as a gift for the holiday season.

Want to pick up some awesome MagSafe accessories for your new iPhone 12? Check out our list of the Best Mag Safe Accessories 2020.

The analytics firm also believes that sales of the iPhone 12 Pro Max will begin to fall off and get passed by the rest of the iPhone 12 lineup as many iPhone 12 Pro Max owners are made up of the enthusiasts who buy the latest iPhone closer to its release date.

What you need to know

• iFixit has published its teardown of the iPhone 12 Pro Max.
• The teardown shows off the new camera system and battery.

In a blog post, iFixit has published its teardown of the iPhone 12 Pro Max. One interesting part of the new phone was how big the L-shaped battery was inside the case.

They also show off the new wide camera with its larger sensor and sensor-shift image stabilization system.

The new size of the wide camera, according to iFixit, may be the reason the new technology was not able to be included in the regular-sized iPhone 12 Pro.

You can read about the full teardown on the iFixit website. Check out the live teardown of the iPhone 12 Pro Max below.

What you need to know

• Popular photography app developer Halide has released its review of the iPhone 12 Pro Max camera.
• They say the new device is a "huge leap" forward in quality, capable of images previously only seen in dedicated cameras.

Popular photography app developer Halide has released its iPhone 12 Pro Max camera review, stating the new flagship device from Apple is a "huge leap forward" in iPhone camera quality.

In the review, Halide outlines its quest to do a "very deep, technical analysis of what's new in iPhone 12 cameras this year." Halide notes how Apple dedicated a whole section of the keynote to the new Pro Max device, and that the results from the phone were so surprising that they created a whole separate post about the device.

The review covers the Sensor, 65mm lens, and ProRAW. From the review:

Once the sun went down during testing, Halide said that there was "no contest" between the iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max, the Pro Max coming out as the clear winner. The Pro Max also pulled ahead in low-light photography when it comes to stabilization thanks to sensor shift:

You can read the full review here, however Halide concludes:

Halide says the new iPhone offers "a lot" to advanced photography users, and that we should think of the Pro Max cameras as like the release of a new chip:

It's funny. Computer Twitter has been annoyed by the highest-end iPhone pricing or a while. Complaining a Max costs the same as a… Mac. At least a MacBook Air. Photography Twitter, though, has a totally different perspective. That the iPhone, especially the Pro and now extra especially the Max, have really good cameras, and really, really good video cameras, and they cost only a fraction of the price of most of the new, dedicated cameras coming out this summer. Sometimes less than a single lens for one of those cameras. And the iPhone comes with three.

I know they're not at all the same thing, not at all, not even remotely. But… kinda? Increasingly the iPhone Pro is finding its way into pro video workflows, not because it can do everything a DSLR or mirrorless or cine cam can do… but because it can do some things they can't, more easily, and yes, less expensively.

iPhone 12 Pro Max Camera: What's the same

When it comes to the iPhone 12 Pro Max camera specifically, you get the same 13mm f/2.4 120º ultra-wide as you do on all the other iPhone 12 models, all the way down to the mini. With Smart HDR3, which lets you capture detail in shadows and highlights beyond what even most big sensors and glass can easily capture, because big compute, and also Deep Fusion for better texture in low light, and Night Mode for when there's almost no light. And those features are across all cameras now, even the front.

Same LiDAR Scanner as on the regular Pro as well, the one that allows for fast auto-focus and portrait mode in low-light, and much faster augmented reality surface acquisition in daylight.

Also, new with iOS 14.2, People Detection in the Magnifier app. It's from Apple's supremely genius Accessibility team and will help those with no and low vision avoid collisions and maintain safe physical distancing in lines and other public spaces, which is just critical during a pandemic.

iPhone 12 Pro Max Camera: What's different

The 26mm f/1.6 wide-angle camera is where the differences start on the Pro Max. It's got bigger, 1.7-micron pixels compared to the 1.4-micron pixels on the regular Pro. Which means it can take in more light. The OIS, or optical image stabilization, is also sensor-shift on the Max, like the IBIS or in-body image stabilization you find in higher-end dedicated cameras. Basically, instead of the lens floating to cancel out sensor movement, the sensor itself floats, which is mechanically simpler and, yeah, optically better.

It combines to make the iPhone 12 Pro Max just a low-light monster. It's not something you'll need or appreciate all the time. I mean, in the daytime, it doesn't really matter. A potato can take a good photo in the daytime. But when it's not quite Night Mode, that's where the Max shines.

Apple has also announced a ProRAW format for later in the year, which promises the flexibility of RAW with the power of computational photography. Basically, letting you step through and tweak the process. I can't wait to test it out and see what it can really do in a follow-up review.

The 52mm telephoto is, well, not 52mm on the Max. It's 65mm now. Which means it has even more compression and less distortion, which can be really nice for portraits and product shots. The downside is, instead of an f/2.0 aperture, it's an f/2.2 aperture, which means it's not as good in low light.

Still, I love the way it frames. Because of the length, it steps up to 2.5x, not just 2x like on Apple's previous telephoto camera system. And it's kinda surprising and delightful how much difference that actually makes. It's still way closer to a 50 than 80, but it's getting there.

And yeah, even though Apple's doing a much better job with Smart HDR and Deep Fusion on digital zoom, I'm still really missing much better optical zoom on iPhones. I'm not saying periscope lens me, but something.

I do love, just all-caps love, the natural bokeh you can get off the 65mm though. I mean, Portrait Mode is fine and computational photography never ceases to fascinate me, but there's just nothing that matches what you get off glass, and when you have enough light this glass is great.

And all of the same things apply to video as well. Including the new 4K60 Dolby Vision HDR mode. I really, truly, intensely wish Apple had a button on the main camera app to toggle it on and off like they recently added for the resolution and frame rate, and I'm still waiting on proper Final Cut Pro X support like Judge Judy slapping her watch dot GIF. But the 10-bit dynamic range is just gorgeous.

And the 6.7-inch display makes for a terrific view-finder. I mean, camera nerds like me pay hundreds and hundreds of dollars to slap a SmalHD or similar, bigger display on our cameras. This one is OLED HDR, does real-time preview for computational modes, so what you see is what you shoot, and it comes built-in. Which is just one more thing that helps explain the difference in perceived value.

Videography is where the bigger size really doesn't matter either, because most cameras a way bigger, some enormously bigger, and by comparison even the iPhone 12 Pro Max is ridiculously light, and combined with its dynamic range, makes it incredibly easy to get into any space and do almost any type of shot. Especially when you use a gimbal or just the IBIS and stabilize in post. It's not just slick, it's sick.

Now, none of these are major differences. They're small, interesting things that appeal to me because I love exactly these kinds of small, interesting things. They're fresh. They're fun. They let me stretch my creative potential.

But, if nothing I said here interests you in the slightest, then you can just scratch 'camera' off your Max list and decide based on size alone.

More to shoot

I need to shoot a lot more with this camera. I want to shoot a lot more with this camera. But so far, I like the telephoto even if it is a real tradeoff between length and speed. The wide-angle though… that's pure win. At least when it comes to delivering on the promise of more better photos under more wider conditions.

What you need to know

• The iPhone 12 Pro Max and iPhone 12 mini are now available.
• Apple has documented stores around the world as customers begin to secure their new devices.
• Deliveries of the new iPhones are also beginning to arrive.

Apple has shared its customary images as its stores open on iPhone 12 Pro Max and iPhone 12 mini launch day, as buyers arrive to collect their devices.

Best iPhone 12 deals

From Apple:

Apple shared photos of customers collecting devices in its Apple Sydney store in Australia, naturally among the first to open its doors to customers on launch day.

In these uniquely challenging times, Apple has also shared images of its online team members, which it says are ready to offer their expertise, service, and support to customers who need it but don't want to, or can't travel to a store.

Photos were also shared from Apple Sanlitun in China.

As noted, Friday 13 is also the first day that customers will begin receiving deliveries of their orders, with users already taking to Twitter to share their new purchases:

Apple's iPhone 12 was announced back in October and features the all-new A14 processor, redesigned chassis, and 5G capability for ultrafast networking.

What you need to know

• Videographer Andy To got his hands on an iPhone 12 Pro Max.
• He took the new cameras to Oakland.
• The result is a sweet cinematic video showing off To's home town.

Apple's new iPhone 12 Pro Max goes on sale later this week but some lucky people already have their hands on the biggest iPhone ever made. One of those people is videographer Andy To, and there was only ever going to be one outcome – some sweet video.

To took the hottest iPhone yet to his hometown of Oakland, California, and did what he does best. The result is some gorgeous cinematic footage showing Oakland off to the fullest.

Check it out and see for yourself.

It's fair to say that the footage looks great, although iPhone's trademark lens flare does get a little distracting at times.

Does this get you excited for iPhone 12 Pro Max's arrival this Friday? Or do you think the standard iPhone 12 Pro or even iPhone 12 would have been able to do Oakland just as much justice? We have the comments for a reason, folks!

What you need to know

• The first iPhone 12 Pro Max reviews are arriving.
• Everyone agrees – this thing is big.
• The new camera improvements might not be worth dealing with the hugeness.

The first reviews of Apple's iPhone 12 Pro Max have started to arrive and, sure enough, that 6.7-inch screen is big. Very big.

The largest iPhone Apple has ever made, iPhone 12 Pro Max is a beast and that much we already expected. But with reviews saying that it might be too big, it could be too much iPhone for many pairs of hands.

Some people will be buying iPhone 12 Pro Max for the improved camera system but, worryingly, some reviews suggest that the larger sensor and stabilization magic might not be all that. MKBHD in particular wasn't a fan, something that I wouldn't have expected before today.

Ultimately, people will be buying iPhone 12 Pro Max for the supposedly better camera or huge screen. You can check out these video reviews and see for yourself – are those two things enough? Or in the case of that screen, too much?

MKBHD

The Verge

Peter McKinnon

Engadget

iJustine

CNET

I hear you, I feel you. For the last couple of years the Pro and Pro Max iPhones have been identical except for the Max part. The size part. But this year… this 2020 of years… the cameras are different and even the size differences… are different.

That's why a lot of us — myself included — are having a hard time choosing between the iPhone 12 Pro and the iPhone 12 Pro Max. Especially now that pre-orders are less than a week away.

So, If you're still on the fence. If you prefer the regular Pro size but want that Pro Max camera or battery. If you don't mind big phones but worry the new Max is just too big. But if you also worry that if you don't get it, you might just regret it. If you've got full on FOMO YOLO, but worry Pro Max price is just a no-go…

Then, in hopes I can help you either way, here's why I'm personally choosing the iPhone 12 Pro Max this year.

iPhone 12 Pro Max price: Only $100 more... for more

The Max is $100 more than the Pro. And that's it. For everything we're going to go over next, the cost differential is just $100. Which, I understand, may be a lot for some people, like 10% more, even on a $1000 phone. But with trade-ins, installments, upgrade programs, the difference over the course of a year, never mind several, isn't going to be that much. Of course, never, I mean not ever, spend dime one more than you can or should, and if you have a hard limit, absolutely stick to it, I'm just saying if you don't have any other concerns, like at all, price just isn't a huge, blinking, neon stop sign for the Max. Not once you've decided to go Pro at least.

iPhone 12 Pro Max size: Bigger than ever

iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone 12 Pro Max .caption

That size though. I mean, Apple has already made the Pro bigger. It's full-on iPhone XR, iPhone 11-like now. 5.8-inches to 6.1. So if you're going Pro at all, you're going big, and bigger. Not too much bigger, though. The display has gone from 6.5-inches to 6.5. So it really is the maxi-set of max iPhones Apple has ever made.

But, some of that is reduced bezel. Ok, a tiny bit of that. It's 0.11 inches taller, but only 0.01-inches wider, and it's also 0.03 inches thinner. Though, yeah, 0.06 ounces heavier.

All that to say, if you were ok with any of the Plus sized iPhones, or ever owned or held the iPhone XS or iPhone 11 Max, the iPhone 12 Max won't be that much of a difference. In fact, the biggest difference might just be the everything-old-is-new-again squared off design. Because the loss of the iPhone 6 to iPhone 11-era curves do make the iPhone 12 series feel more… substantial. Grippier maybe. The edges don't just slide into your hand so much as press into it, which some prefer and others… really don't. Let me know how you feel in the comments.

Either way, though, if you're coming from a smaller iPhone, not even talking a 5 or original SE, but just a 6 or 10 or even XR or 11, you'll want to carefully consider the size. If you're coming from a Plus or preview Max or, hell, yeah, basically any Android phone this side of a Pixel non-XL, you'll probably be just fine.

iPhone 12 Pro Max display: More info or more visibility

iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone XR, iPhone 12 Pro Max .caption

The colors, silver, graphite, 18K gold, and pacific blue are the same, same, same, same on both Pros, so is the design, the stainless steel antenna bands, the matte glass on the back, the Ceramic Shied on the front. The Notch. All the same, all just as Pro, all notched, on both of them.

Even the displays on the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro are identical in every way except for size. Same OLED, same HDR, same contrast ratio, typical and max brightness levels. Same everything. Except for size.

With the increased size, you do get a higher pixel count on the iPhone 12 Pro Max display. An extra 246 vertically and 114 horizontally, which is like half and original iPhone, which is ridiculous, but at today's pixel counts and densities, isn't really much at all. And, like, 10 and 6 more than the 11 Max. Probably not even enough to put any real extra strain on the A14 Bionic chipset inside.

It is physically larger, though, which means you can fit slightly more on the screen, if you just love you your information density. Or, you can fit the same amount at a bigger size, thanks to the Display Zoom accessibility feature. Which is great if your eyesight needs as much extra size as it can get.

Even for gaming or watching videos, everything will be just that much bigger.

But… that also means it'll be harder to fit in your pockets, especially you lot out there wearing what looks like a hybrid between skinny hipster jeans and yoga pants. Really, 2020, like everything else wasn't enough?

Depending on what else you carry and how you pack, it might also be harder to fit in your bags and jackets.

The iPhone 12 Pro is already a lot of phone. The iPhone 12 Max is… a lot a lot. In both the best and worst ways.

iPhone 12 Pro Max cameras: Better wide, mixed telephoto

Another major difference between the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro is the camera system. Not the 13mm f/2.4 120º ultra wide camera. That shooter is the same on both of them. Same with the LiDAR scanner that allows for fast auto-focus and portrait mode in low-light, and much faster augmented reality in day light.

The 26mm f/1.6 wide angle is better on the Max, though. Bigger and better. With 1.7 micro pixels instead of 1.4. Yeah, +0.3 more micron-y. Which means it can take in more light for better low light performance. The optical image stabilization, the OIS, is also sensor-shift on the Max. Which means, instead of the lens floating to cancel out sensor movement, the sensor itself floats, which is mechanically simpler and, yeah, optically better.

The 52mm telephoto is, well, not 52mm on the Max. It's 65mm now. Which means it has even more compression and less distortion, which can be really nice on portraits and product shots. Still closer to a 50 than 80, but slightly more in between. And that also means you can step in to 2.5x, not just 2x like on Apple's previous telephoto camera system. Downside, instead of an f/2.0 aperture, its an f/2.2 aperture, which means it'll let in less light.

So, while the wide angle is pure win, the telephoto is really more mixed win. If you prefer a 50mm and don't want to give up any low-light there, you may be happier with the 12 Pro.

If you're all about that 26mm wide, though, then Pro Max then you're going to prefer the Pro max.

iPhone 12 Pro Max battery: Max is max

The A14 Bionic chipset is the same in both the iPhone 12 Pro and Max, same architecture, same IP. Same Qualcomm X55 modem for FR1 low and midband 5G globally and FR2 Highland, mmWave in the U.S. Both have 6GB of RAM, which helps keep even the most bloated social networking apps and games in memory much, much longer than before. And both go up to 512GB of storage if you want to pay the premium for it.

Where they differ is, even though the Pro Max has a bigger display to power and more pixels to push around, it has a bigger battery to do it with. Bigger enough, that Apple rates it for an extra 3 hours of local video playback, and extra hour of video streaming, and an extra 15 hours of audio playback.

Both work with Apple's new MagSafe magnetic inductive charging system and both still have a Lightning Port and can fast-charge up to 50% in 30 minutes with Apple's new — but not included in the box — 20 watt power adapter. And yeah, still super salty about that.

But the bottom line here is, bigger is just more. Especially with the regular Pro hurting a bit on battery life, thanks to the new build and especially 5G, the Max is still Max-as-in-Max-battery for those who want an iPhone to last as long as an iPhone possibly can.

And especially with the new camera, it's why I'm personally going to be getting the iPhone 12 Pro Max this year. It's a little extra for me, but I just want the best camera, and adding in that bigger battery, just makes the choice for me.

You've gotta do you, though. Just let me know what you decide and why in the comments!

With the iPhone 12 series, Apple is bringing back the boxy look that was first popularized with the iPhone 4 in 2010. It's largely because of this design change that your iPhone 11 Pro Max case won't work with your new iPhone 12 Pro Max.

The new iPhone 12 Pro Max includes a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display. The handset offers a height of 6.33 inches and a 3.07 inches width, with a depth of 0.29 inches. The older model had a 6.5-inch Super Retina XDR display with a height of 6.22 inches and a 3.06 inches width. The depth on the iPhone 11 Pro Max measured 0.32 inches.

Though the iPhone 12 Pro Max was recently announced, there are a number of cases already on sale for Apple's newest phones. Cases like the Apple Clear Case provide excellent protection, and you can get them delivered fairly quickly, so they might even be on your doorstep by the time your iPhone arrives.

What you need to know

• The iPhone 12 Pro Max will be released next month.
• New filings have confirmed it has a smaller capacity battery compared to the iPhone 11 Pro Max.
• Despite this, both offer the same performance.

Apple's new iPhone 12 Pro Max will be released to the public next month, but new filings have revealed that the biggest iPhone 12 in the lineup will offer the same battery performance as the previous model despite the battery being slightly smaller.

As reported by MacRumors:

As the report notes, the new filing confirms a rumor prior to release which stated the iPhone 12 Pro Max would ship with a battery of exactly this size.

More importantly, it confirms that like the iPhone 12, Apple's iPhone 12 Pro Max boasts the same battery performance as last year's model, despite being smaller in capacity.

According to Apple's website, both the iPhone 11 Pro Max and the new iPhone 12 Pro Max are good for up to 20 hours of video playback, up to 12 hours of streamed video playback, and up to 80 hours of audio.

As reported yesterday, the iPhone 12's battery is also smaller than iPhone 11 but offers the same (if not better) in terms of usage time. The measure likely reflects efficiency improvements achieved by Apple's A14 chip.