Not only does the iPhone 5 bump the front camera into high-definition territory with the ability to take and transmit 720p video footage -- as well as much clearer still photos -- but iOS 6 also now allows for FaceTime conversations over cellular networks. On Verizon and Sprint, you’re free to use FaceTime on any plan, though you’ll need a Mobile Share subscription with AT&T to use the feature on LTE or 3G. Of course, FaceTime is still available to all via Wi-Fi, regardless of network.
In our testing, the iPhone 5 transmitted much clearer images with proper lighting; in fact, when FaceTiming with an iPhone 4 user, the feed we sent was noticeably crisper than the one we received! As far as data usage, we averaged about 3MB per minute between iPhone 5 handsets on LTE, while a chat between an iPhone 5 and a standard-def iPhone 4 soaked up less than 2MB per minute on each side. Whatever your situation, keep an eye out on your data usage just in case -- we used Data Monitor, but the App Store is full of well-reviewed alternatives.
