Older iPhones get FaceTime HD upgrade: What to expect

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A recent iOS update brings FaceTime HD to older iPhones.

iPhone 12 Pro Max review
(Image credit: Laptop Mag)

With the release of the iPhone 12 came FaceTime HD, which was available when connected to Wi-Fi or 5G networks and provided FaceTime users with full 1080p resolution and much better image quality. 

Now this upgrade is coming to older iPhones that already have a 12-megapixel front-facing camera and are perfect candidates as they are capable of HD video. 

With the release of iOS update 14.2, one of the hidden surprises recently discovered by MacMagazine is that FaceTime HD, which is native to iPhone 12, is now available to users of older iPhones starting with iPhones 8, 8 Plus, X, XR, XS, XS Max, SE (2nd Gen), 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max while using Wi-Fi. 

The discovery was notice when Apple recently posted the device's specs on Apple's website. FaceTime HD is a marked improvement as I tested it with a call to my daughter and immediately noticed improved clarity and sharpness. Bravo Apple, now my daughter can point out all the new grey in my beard and remind me it's Just For Men time. 

Mark Anthony Ramirez
Mark Anthony Ramirez

Mark has spent 20 years headlining comedy shows around the country and made appearances on ABC, MTV, Comedy Central, Howard Stern, Food Network, and Sirius XM Radio. He has written about every topic imaginable, from dating, family, politics, social issues, and tech. He wrote his first tech articles for the now-defunct Dads On Tech 10 years ago, and his passion for combining humor and tech has grown under the tutelage of the Laptop Mag team. His penchant for tearing things down and rebuilding them did not make Mark popular at home, however, when he got his hands on the legendary Commodore 64, his passion for all things tech deepened. These days, when he is not filming, editing footage, tinkering with cameras and laptops, or on stage, he can be found at his desk snacking, writing about everything tech, new jokes, or scripts he dreams of filming.