The iPhone XR launched in October 2018 as Apple’s budget-friendly flagship, featuring a 6.1″ Liquid Retina display, Face ID, and the A12 Bionic chipset. Now in 2025, you might wonder if this nearly seven year old model still holds up against newer phones, especially when shopping on a budget. Let’s break down the key factors.
1. Performance & Software Support
- A12 Bionic Chip: Even in 2025, the A12 remains surprisingly capable for everyday tasks: social media, video streaming, light gaming, and multitasking feel smooth.
- iOS Updates: Apple typically supports iPhones for 6–7 years. The XR shipped with iOS 12 and currently runs iOS 17; you can expect at least one more major update (iOS 18) before support ends.
Verdict: Performance is still solid, and you’ll receive critical security patches for at least another year.
2. Display & Design
- 6.1″ LCD “Liquid Retina”: Brightness and color accuracy remain decent, but it lacks the deep blacks and power savings of OLED panels now common on midrange devices.
- Bezels & Notch: The XR’s thicker bezels and wide notch look dated compared to edge-to-edge designs in 2025.
Verdict: Functional but not as immersive or energy-efficient as newer OLED screens.
3. Camera Capabilities
- Single 12 MP Wide Lens: Still capable of sharp, well-exposed photos in good light.
- Night & Portrait Modes: Introduced via software updates, but lack the depth-sensing and multi-lens versatility of today’s triple/quad-camera arrays.
- Video: 4K recording at 60 fps remains competitive for casual videography.
Verdict: Adequate for everyday snaps, but falls short for advanced low-light and zoom photography.
4. Battery Life & Charging
- Battery Endurance: Original battery health varies; a fresh battery (or replacement) can deliver a full day of moderate use.
- Charging: Supports 7.5 W wireless and 15 W wired charging.
Verdict: Reliable for daily use if health is good, but charging speeds are modest.
5. Value Compared to Newer Models
While the XR can still serve as a capable daily driver, newer models and even many midrange Android phones now offer:
- Better Displays: OLED panels with higher refresh rates.
- Advanced Cameras: Multiple lenses for ultrawide, telephoto, and night-mode enhancements.
- Faster Charging & Wireless Standards: Higher-watt fast charging and MagSafe accessories.
- Longer Support Windows: Newer chipsets that will receive iOS updates for longer.
Budget Alternative: The iPhone 12 is a particularly strong value—its A14 Bionic chip is markedly faster, the OLED display delivers deep blacks and vibrant color, and it still enjoys Apple’s long software support window.
Verdict: If you value Face ID, a large screen, and Apple’s ecosystem on a tight budget, the XR remains an option—but the iPhone 12 represents a step up in performance and features for not much more.
6. Should You Buy It in 2025?
✅ Good If You:
- Need a large-screen iPhone experience without the latest price tag.
- Value Face ID and all-screen design over Touch ID.
- Are okay with a single-lens camera and modest charging speeds.
❌ Skip If You:
- Want the best low-light photos, optical zoom, or high-refresh-rate display.
- Care about the fastest charging or next-gen wireless features.
Conclusion
The iPhone XR remains a serviceable smartphone in 2025 smooth, secure, and large screen but it’s starting to show its age. If you find a well-maintained, used unit, it can serve as a reliable daily companion. However, for not much more, the iPhone 12 outshines it in display quality, camera versatility, and charging performance.
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