Apple A12X Bionic
Apple A12X Bionic: A Retrospective and Relevance in 2025
Overview of the processor that redefined mobile performance
Introduction
In 2018, Apple introduced the A12X Bionic—a breakthrough processor for tablets and compact devices. Seven years later, in 2024-2025, it is still found in entry-level and mid-range devices, offering a balance between price and performance. Let's explore why the A12X remains in demand, how it performs in modern conditions, and who it is suited for.
1. Architecture and Process Technology: An Engineering Masterpiece of Its Time
CPU: 8 cores focused on multitasking
The A12X Bionic is built on a 7nm process technology (which is considered outdated in 2025, but was cutting-edge in 2018). Its 8-core architecture comprises:
- 4 high-performance Vortex cores with a frequency of up to 2.5 GHz for heavy tasks;
- 4 energy-efficient Tempest cores with a frequency of ~1.6 GHz for background processes.
This approach ensured smooth operation even under intensive loads. The 8MB L2 cache accelerated data processing, reducing latency.
GPU: Apple A12X—Graphics for Professional Tasks
The integrated 7-core GPU (one core more than the A12) delivered 35% greater performance than the previous generation. It supported 4K video rendering, AR applications, and demanding games.
Neural Engine: Foundation for AI
The 8-core Neural Engine could process up to 5 trillion operations per second, enabling Face ID, advanced camera filters, and machine learning applications in 2018.
2. Performance in Real-World Tasks: From Gaming to AI
Gaming and Multimedia
- Geekbench 6: 1326 (Single-Core), 4588 (Multi-Core)—scores comparable to the Snapdragon 855+ from 2019. By 2025, this is sufficient for mobile gaming at medium settings (e.g., Genshin Impact or Call of Duty: Mobile).
- Graphics: The 12X GPU handles 4K video rendering in apps like LumaFusion, but prolonged loads may result in throttling due to a TDP of 15W.
Power Consumption and Thermal Management
- TDP 15W—a high figure for mobile devices. In tablets (e.g., iPad Pro 2018), this was mitigated by passive cooling, but it could cause overheating in compact form factors.
- Battery: Devices using the A12X demonstrated 10-12 hours of autonomy with moderate use.
AI Applications
The Neural Engine accelerated object recognition in photos, working with Siri, and AR applications (e.g., IKEA Place). However, in 2025, its capabilities are insufficient for complex tasks like generative AI (Stable Diffusion, ChatGPT-4).
3. Built-in Modules: Connectivity and Navigation
- Modem: Intel XMM 7660 provided 4G LTE (up to 1 Gbps) but did not support 5G.
- Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0—standards from 2018. By 2025, this is inadequate for premium-class devices but sufficient for basic tasks.
- Navigation: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo—full support for satellite systems.
4. Comparison with Competitors
Against Contemporaries (2018-2020):
- Snapdragon 855: The A12X outperformed it by 40% in Multi-Core (Geekbench 6).
- Huawei Kirin 990: Lacked energy efficiency but excelled in GPU performance.
Against 2025 Processors:
- Apple A18 Bionic (3 nm): Offers 2-3 times higher performance, supporting 5G and Wi-Fi 7.
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4: Better graphics and AI accelerators.
Conclusion: Today, the A12X is an option for the budget segment. Its performance level is close to Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 (2024) but lacks support for new communication standards.
5. Use Cases: Where A12X is Still Relevant
- Everyday Tasks: Web surfing, social media, office applications (Pages, Excel).
- Gaming: Medium settings in mobile games, cloud gaming (Xbox Cloud).
- Creativity: Basic photo editing in Lightroom, editing short videos.
- Education: E-books, Zoom conferences, AR applications for learning.
6. Pros and Cons of A12X Bionic in 2025
Pros:
- Affordable device pricing (new iPad Pro 2018-2020 ranging from $400 to $600).
- Optimization for iOS/iPadOS 16-17 (support discontinued in 2024, but current applications still work).
- Powerful GPU for its time.
Cons:
- No 5G or Wi-Fi 6/7 support.
- Limited support for new AI features.
- The 7nm process technology lags behind modern 3-4nm in energy efficiency.
7. Practical Tips: How to Choose a Device with A12X
- Target Devices: iPad Pro 2018 (11"/12.9"), iPad Air 2020.
- What to Look For:
- Battery Condition (wear >20% decreases autonomy).
- iOS Version (iPadOS 16 recommended for app compatibility).
- Memory: Minimum of 64GB; preferably 256GB for media storage.
- Alternatives: For 5G and a modern chip, consider the 2025 iPad with A16 Bionic ($799).
8. Final Recommendation: Who Should Choose A12X in 2025
This processor is suitable for:
- Students—for studying and basic creativity.
- Budget Users—as an alternative to new tablets costing $300-500.
- As a Secondary Device—for reading, surfing, and media consumption.
Key Benefits:
- Price/performance ratio.
- Reliability and proven platform.
- Access to the Apple ecosystem (Apple Pencil, Magic Keyboard).
Conclusion
The Apple A12X Bionic is a prime example of a "long-lived" processor. Despite its outdated technology, it remains a practical choice for those who value the balance between cost and functionality. In 2025, devices powered by this chip serve as an excellent entry point into the Apple ecosystem without the premium price tag of top-tier innovations.