Definition: iPhone 5

A major upgrade to the iPhone line, introduced in September 2012 with Version 6 of the iOS operating system (see iOS versions). The iPhone 5 was taller, thinner, and lighter than the 4S and supported the faster LTE 4G cellular networks. A major change was the larger screen size from 3.5" to 4". It employed a faster processor, faster graphics, improved camera, smaller 8-pin dock connector (see Lightning connector) and a new style of earbuds (see EarPods). The analog headphone jack were moved from the top to bottom.

Interacting externally via barcodes and QR codes, a new Passbook app, later renamed "Wallet," was used for tickets and coupons (see Apple Wallet). See iPhone 4s and iPhone 5s.

Taller, Thinner and Lighter

Although the same width, the extra height of the iPhone 5 (left) displayed six icon rows, compared to five on the 4s (right). In addition, HD videos rendered in full wide screen. (Image courtesy of Apple Inc.)