Last month, Apple launched iOS 14.2 with over 100 fresh emojis, new wallpapers, and a lot of other features. A critical change in the quality of life that Apple did not include in its official release notes, however is the inclusion of 1080p HD FaceTime on older iPhones.
Apple has revised its device comparison page to explain that older iPhones, including iPhone 8, 8 Plus, X, XR, XS, XS Max, SE (second-gen), 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max, also allow FaceTime calls over Wi-Fi at 1080p, as first reported by MacMagazine. Until now, on these iPhones, FaceTime video calls have been limited at 720p.
Meanwhile, 1080p FaceTime calls are supported out of the box by the iPhone 12 series. In comparison, if you're in one of the areas with 5G connectivity, it also delivers the same capabilities across wireless networks. To explain, Apple does not allow video calls over 4G networks with 1080p FaceTime.
The decision by Apple to make HD FaceTime calls comes at a time when, thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, people rely on video calling apps more than ever before. The upgrade is sure to make a substantial change in terms of user interface, whether you are away from home or want to catch up with your mates over FaceTime.
It is indeed shocking how Apple missed out on its changelog listing this much-needed feature. Had they listed it in the release notes, this single feature inclusion may have enabled users to upgrade to iOS 14.2. Now will be a perfect time to upgrade your new iPhone to iOS 14.2 and experience crisper video calls, because you're already reading this.
