iPhone XR in 2025: Still Worth It? Full Review & Analysis

As we cruise through mid-2025, the tech landscape is dominated by devices boasting multi-lens camera arrays, blazing-fast 5G connectivity, and AI features that promise to revolutionize our daily lives. In this rapid evolution, it's easy to overlook older, once-groundbreaking smartphones. Yet, one device consistently sparks debate: the iPhone XR. Launched in late 2018, the XR was a breath of fresh air – a more affordable iPhone that didn't skimp on the essential Apple experience. But can it still hold its own in 2025? Let's dissect its continued viability.

The Elephant in the Room: Software Support

This is arguably the most critical factor when considering an older iPhone. Apple is renowned for its lengthy software support, far exceeding most Android manufacturers. The iPhone XR, initially launched with iOS 12, has been updated through to iOS 18. This means it currently benefits from the latest security patches, performance improvements, and a wide array of new features introduced in recent iOS versions.

However, the writing is on the wall. Industry whispers and historical patterns strongly suggest that iOS 19, expected to be released later this year (September 2025, alongside the iPhone 17 series), will likely mark the end of major software updates for the iPhone XR (and its contemporaries, the iPhone XS and XS Max).

What does this mean for you?

• No New Features: Future iOS versions will introduce exciting new functionalities, especially with the increasing integration of "Apple Intelligence." The XR will miss out on these.
• Security Concerns: While Apple sometimes provides critical security updates for older, unsupported iOS versions, the regularity and comprehensiveness will diminish. This could leave your device more vulnerable to new threats over time.
• App Compatibility: While most apps will continue to function on iOS 18 for a considerable period, some newer or updated apps might eventually require a newer iOS version.

For the user who craves the latest bells and whistles, or who prioritizes bleeding-edge security, the impending end of major software support is a significant red flag.

Performance: The A12 Bionic's Last Stand

The iPhone XR is powered by Apple's A12 Bionic chip. In 2018, this was a powerhouse, enabling smooth multitasking, excellent gaming performance, and advanced computational photography. Fast forward to 2025, and the A12 Bionic is certainly showing its age when compared to the A17 Pro or even the A15 Bionic found in more recent models.

So, how does it hold up for daily use?

• Everyday Tasks: For basic activities like Browse the web, checking emails, social media, and messaging, the iPhone XR still performs admirably. Apps open relatively quickly, and scrolling is generally smooth.
• Gaming: Demanding 3D games will definitely push the A12 Bionic to its limits. You might experience lower frame rates, graphical compromises, and noticeable heat generation during extended gaming sessions. Casual games, however, should run without a hitch.
• "Apple Intelligence" (AI) Features: Newer AI-centric features introduced with iOS 18 and beyond are heavily reliant on the latest Neural Engines within newer A-series chips. The XR's A12 Bionic will struggle to run these, if it can run them at all. This means you'll miss out on a key evolving aspect of the iPhone experience.

Verdict on Performance: Viable for light to moderate users. Power users, especially mobile gamers and those eager for advanced AI, will find it lacking.

Camera: Still a Decent Shooter, But Not a Contender

The iPhone XR's single 12MP wide-angle camera was remarkable for its time, leveraging the A12 Bionic to deliver excellent Smart HDR and Portrait Mode (for people).

In 2025, its performance is a mixed bag:

• Daylight Photography: In good lighting conditions, the XR still captures pleasing photos with accurate colors and decent detail. For casual sharing on social media, it's perfectly adequate.
• Low Light: This is where the XR truly shows its age. Without a dedicated Night Mode (introduced with the iPhone 11), low-light photos can be noisy, lack detail, and struggle with dynamic range. Newer iPhones with larger sensors and advanced computational photography algorithms blow the XR out of the water in challenging light.
• Video: 4K video recording at 60fps is still a solid feature, and the video quality is generally good for its class. However, newer iPhones offer superior video stabilization, cinematic modes, and ProRes recording.
• Front Camera: The 7MP TrueDepth camera is still fine for video calls and casual selfies, but again, newer models offer higher resolution and more advanced features.

Verdict on Camera: Good for casual, well-lit shots. Not suitable for serious photography, low-light situations, or content creators.

Battery Life: A Variable Factor

The iPhone XR was lauded for its impressive battery life upon release, thanks to its efficient A12 Bionic and energy-conserving LCD display.

In 2025, battery life is highly dependent on:

• Original Battery Health: If you're using an iPhone XR with its original battery from 2018, its maximum capacity will have significantly degraded. You'll likely experience shorter screen-on time and potentially even performance throttling (where the phone deliberately slows down to prevent unexpected shutdowns).
• Replacement Battery: If the battery has been replaced with a new, genuine Apple battery (or a high-quality third-party replacement), the XR can still deliver a full day of moderate usage. This is a crucial consideration if you're looking to extend its life.

Verdict on Battery Life: Highly variable. A fresh battery makes it viable; an old, degraded one makes it a frustration.

Display: The "Liquid Retina" in a World of OLEDs

The XR's 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD (LCD) display was a cost-saving measure that still delivered vibrant colors and good brightness. However, it lacks the deep blacks, infinite contrast, and higher resolutions of the OLED panels found in the iPhone XS and all subsequent flagship iPhones.

In 2025, the LCD is noticeable but not necessarily a deal-breaker for everyone:

• Casual Viewing: For everyday Browse, social media, and watching YouTube, the display is perfectly fine.
• Media Consumption: If you're a heavy Netflix or movie watcher, you'll notice the difference in black levels and overall vibrancy compared to an OLED screen.
• Brightness: While good for an LCD, it won't reach the peak brightness of newer OLED iPhones, especially in direct sunlight.

Verdict on Display: Good enough for most casual users. OLED purists will find it a step down.

Other Considerations:

• 5G Connectivity: The iPhone XR is a 4G LTE device and does not support 5G. In 2025, 5G networks are becoming more widespread, offering significantly faster speeds. If you rely on super-fast mobile data, this is a major limitation.
• MagSafe: The XR does not support MagSafe accessories, which integrate magnetically with newer iPhones for charging and various attachments.
• Repairability/Parts: While parts are still readily available, the device is older, and unforeseen repairs could be costly relative to its current market value.

So, Is the iPhone XR Still Viable in 2025?

YES, IF:

• You are on a very strict budget. Buying a used iPhone XR with good battery health can be a very affordable entry point into the Apple ecosystem.
• You are a light user. Primarily using your phone for calls, texts, social media, web Browse, and casual apps.
• You need a secondary device. It makes for an excellent backup phone, a dedicated media player, or a device for a child.
• You don't mind the impending end of major iOS updates. You understand the trade-offs in terms of new features and long-term security.
• You prioritize a larger screen over absolute portability (compared to, say, a refurbished iPhone SE 3rd Gen).

NO, IF:

• You prioritize the latest software updates and security patches.
• You need high performance for demanding games or future AI features.
• You are a keen mobile photographer or videographer.
• You require 5G connectivity.
• You plan to keep the phone for more than another year or two.
• You are a power user who constantly pushes their device to its limits.

The Bottom Line

The iPhone XR in 2025 is a device at a crossroads. It's an affordable entry into the Apple ecosystem, offering a surprisingly capable experience for basic use. However, its age is undeniably catching up, primarily with the impending end of major software support and its lack of modern features like 5G and advanced computational photography.

If you find a well-maintained iPhone XR at an exceptionally low price and your needs align with its capabilities (especially if you're prepared for a battery replacement), it can still serve you for a limited time. However, for most users looking for a device that will last them for several years with continued software support and modern features, stretching your budget for a newer, even refurbished, iPhone like an iPhone 11, iPhone 12, or even the latest iPhone SE (3rd Gen) would be a wiser investment in the long run. The XR had a magnificent run, but its sun is setting.