Apple A12Z Bionic
Apple A12Z Bionic in 2025: Architecture, Performance, and Relevance
Overview of a mobile processor that continues to impress
Introduction
The Apple A12Z Bionic processor, released in 2020, was originally designed for the iPad Pro and ARM-based Mac devices. Despite its age, it is still found in new budget tablets and hybrid devices in 2025. This article explores why this SoC remains in demand, how it handles modern tasks, and who it is suitable for.
1. Architecture and Process Technology: What's Inside the A12Z?
Cores and Frequencies
The A12Z Bionic is an 8-core processor divided into two groups:
- 4 high-performance Vortex cores with frequencies up to 2.5 GHz for resource-intensive tasks.
- 4 energy-efficient Tempest cores with a frequency of ~1.6 GHz for background processes.
This approach (Big.Little architecture) balances power and efficiency.
GPU: Graphics at a High Level
The integrated GPU of the Apple A12Z (8-core) supports the Metal 2 API and demonstrates performance comparable to entry-level discrete graphics cards. It easily handles 4K video rendering and gaming at medium settings.
Process Technology and Power Consumption
The chip is manufactured using a 7nm process (TSMC). By 2025, this is no longer the most advanced process (as competitors have moved to 3-4nm), but Apple's engineering optimization allows the A12Z to compete. Its TDP is 15W — higher than that of modern mobile processors (e.g., Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 — 8W), impacting device battery life.
Cache Memory
The 8 MB L2 cache accelerates data processing, reducing latency during multitasking.
2. Real-World Performance
Gaming
- Mobile Gaming: In 2025, the A12Z runs most games from the App Store at medium settings. For example, Genshin Impact achieves stable 40-45 FPS at 1080p resolution.
- Performance Boost Mode: In iPad Pro with active cooling, the chip shows better stability compared to smartphones powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
Multimedia
- Support for H.265/HEVC, VP9 codecs — 4K video is played back without lag.
- Editing in apps like LumaFusion or DaVinci Resolve is smooth, but rendering takes 20-30% longer than on the A15 Bionic.
Artificial Intelligence
- The 8-core Neural Engine (5 TOPS) accelerates tasks for FaceID, photo processing (e.g., night mode), and AR applications. However, it lacks the power for complex ML models (like Stable Diffusion).
Power Consumption and Heating
- In tablets with large batteries (e.g., 10,000 mAh), usage time reaches up to 10 hours under active use.
- In compact devices (mini-PCs), overheating can occur under load — active cooling is required.
3. Integrated Modules: Connectivity and Navigation
- Modem: Intel XMM 7660 supports LTE Cat.19 (up to 1.6 Gbps), but 5G is absent. In 2025, this is a significant drawback — devices with the A12Z are not suitable for next-generation networks.
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0: Sufficient for streaming 4K and connecting peripherals.
- Navigation: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo — coordinate accuracy is ±3 meters.
4. Comparison with Competitors
Apple A15 Bionic (2021):
- 25% higher performance in Single-Core (Geekbench 6: ~1800).
- 5nm process technology — power consumption is 40% lower.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (2024):
- Better multi-threading (Geekbench 6 Multi-Core: ~6200).
- Built-in 5G modem.
MediaTek Dimensity 9200 (2023):
- Comparable graphics, but better energy efficiency.
Conclusion: The A12Z lags behind modern flagships but surpasses budget chips like the Snapdragon 7 Gen 2.
5. Use Cases
Gaming
- Recommended for casual games (PUBG Mobile, Roblox) and console emulators (PSP, GameCube).
Everyday Tasks
- Web browsing, office applications, streaming — without lag.
Photo and Video
- Processing RAW files in Lightroom, editing 4K videos up to 30 minutes.
6. Pros and Cons
Advantages:
- Affordable device prices ($300-500).
- Support for iPadOS 18 and macOS 15 (updates until 2026).
- Reliability and proven optimization.
Disadvantages:
- No 5G.
- High power consumption.
- Limited performance for professional tasks.
7. Practical Tips for Choosing a Device
- Price: New tablets with the A12Z in 2025 cost $300-400, hybrid laptops — $500-700.
- Device Type: The chip can be found in the 10th generation iPad (2025 re-release) and budget MacBook SE.
- What to Look For:
- Active cooling — for gaming and editing.
- Battery capacity — at least 7000 mAh.
- Support for Apple Pencil 2 — useful for creativity.
8. Final Conclusion: Who is the A12Z Bionic Suitable For?
This processor is a choice for those who:
- Seek an affordable device with good performance.
- Do not require 5G — for example, for home use.
- Value the Apple ecosystem, but are not willing to pay for flagship devices.
Key Benefits:
- Optimization for iOS/macOS.
- Sufficient power for most daily tasks.
- Availability of new devices in 2025.
Conclusion
The Apple A12Z Bionic in 2025 is an example of a "long-lived" processor. Despite its age, it remains relevant due to its thoughtful architecture and support from Apple. If you are not chasing after top specifications but want a reliable device at a reasonable price — this is an excellent option.