Consumer Reports says Apple's iPhone 5 is "best iPhone yet" Consumer Reports announced Friday that it recommends Apple's iPhone 5. Apple's newest smartphone has gotten mixed reviews since its launch. Customers have complained about the lack of Google Maps, purple light flares and scratched phones out of the box. In light of those complaints, it is still considered a phenomenal smartphone by many reviewers. iPhone 5: A technological evolution Consumer Reports says that Apple's new smartphone is "the best iPhone yet." The report cites the larger 4-inch display, slim body, light weight and 4G LTE as some of the highlights of the iPhone 5. The agency also said that, aside from the Nokia 808's 41-megapixel camera, the iPhone 5's camera is the best seen on a smartphone. Consumer Reports does admit that there are some issues with the phone. Apple Maps "fell short" of expectations, when compared with other navigation apps. However, the agency still recommends the iPhone 5. Although the iPhone 5 is impressive, Consumer Reports scored it lower than the Samsung Galaxy S III on AT&T, Sprint and Verizon, and below the Droid Razr Maxx on Verizon. The recommendation aligns with CNET's high ratings. Senior editor Scott Stein says the bottom line is that the iPhone 5 is "absolutely the best iPhone to date, and it easily secures its place in the top tier of the smartphone universe." Apple announced the iPhone 5 on Sept. 12 in San Francisco. The new smartphone features a 4-inch display, 4G LTE, 1080p HD video quality, 720p HD front-facing video, Panoramic photos, a new Lightening connector and EarPods. Despite early criticism over Apple Maps, the iPhone 5 was a hit with consumers. On the Monday following its Friday launch, Apple's chief executive officer Tim Cook announced that the phone was sold out. More information about Consumer Reports' review can be found on its website.