iPhone XR Reviews

iPhone XR Reviews 2025: Pros, Cons, and iOS 18.7 Update Analysis

The iPhone XR, introduced by Apple in 2018 alongside the XS and XS Max, remains a notable choice for users who want a large-screen, multimedia-focused iPhone without paying for the premium flagship models. In 2025, this device still holds relevance for many users, especially after the release of the iOS 18.7 update. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the iPhone XR’s performance, camera capabilities, display quality, battery health, and its pros and cons in 2025.

iPhone XR Overview

Apple positioned the iPhone XR as a more affordable alternative to the XS series. While it does not have the top-tier specifications of its siblings, it still delivers a high-quality user experience. Its Liquid Retina HD display, A12 Bionic chip, and long-lasting battery make it a strong contender among mid-range smartphones even years after its release.

• Display: Liquid Retina HD

• Screen Resolution: 1792 x 828 pixels (326 PPI)

• Processor: A12 Bionic chip with Neural Engine

• Rear Camera: 12 MP single lens

• Front Camera: 7 MP with Face ID and Retina Flash

• Battery: Non-removable, with 25-hour talk time and 65-hour audio playback

• Storage: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB options

• Latest Update: iOS 18.7 (2025)

Display: Pros and Cons

One of the iPhone XR’s most talked-about features is its Liquid Retina HD display. It is Apple’s first attempt to extend the screen to rounded corners, creating a more immersive experience. However, there are both advantages and drawbacks to consider:

Pros

• Flagship-Level Brightness: The display reaches up to 625 cd/m², making it bright enough for outdoor use.

• HDR and Dolby Vision Support: It supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision, enhancing video playback quality.

• Accurate Color Reproduction: Despite being a lower-resolution screen, colors remain vibrant and natural.

Cons

• Low Resolution by Modern Standards: At 1792 x 828 pixels, it falls short compared to Full HD displays and other flagship models.

• Pixel Density: 326 PPI is adequate but not as sharp as newer smartphones.

• Limited for Power Users: Those accustomed to higher-resolution screens might notice slight pixelation when watching high-definition videos.

Verdict: The display is bright and colorful, but for users seeking ultra-crisp visuals, the XR may feel slightly outdated in 2025.

Design and Build

The iPhone XR features a glass front and back with an aluminum frame. One interesting trend among XR users is customizing the housing to mimic newer models like the iPhone 14 Pro.

• Example: Users have installed purple housings, giving the XR a modern aesthetic.

• Face ID Functionality: Even after a housing swap, Face ID works reliably.

Pros

• Solid Build Quality: Despite its age, the XR feels premium in the hand.

• Customizable Appearance: Users can modify the housing for a fresh look.

Cons

• Weight: Slightly heavier than newer models.

• Aging Materials: Glass panels may be more prone to cracking compared to newer materials.

Camera Performance

Camera performance is one of the iPhone XR’s weaker points compared to newer phones. While the device only includes a single 12 MP rear camera, it still offers quality results for casual photography.

Rear Camera

Pros:

• 4K Video Recording: Supports 2160p video, a feature still relevant for 2025 users.

• Quad-LED True Tone Flash: Improves low-light photography.

• Sapphire Crystal Lens Cover: Protects against scratches.

Cons:

• Single Lens Only: Lacks the dual-camera versatility found in newer smartphones.

• Limited Telephoto or Ultra-Wide Options: Users miss modern multi-lens flexibility.

Front Camera

• 7 MP Selfie Camera: Adequate for basic selfies and FaceTime.

• Face ID and Retina Flash: Works reliably for biometric security and selfies.

• Portrait Lighting: Adds depth effects to photos.

Verdict: Cameras are sufficient for social media use, video calls, and casual photography, but not competitive with modern flagship smartphones.

Hardware and Performance

The iPhone XR runs on the A12 Bionic chip with Neural Engine, providing solid performance even in 2025.

Pros

• Smooth Performance: Handles apps, streaming, and games efficiently.

• Neural Engine for AI Tasks: Supports machine learning-based features.

• Battery Longevity: Stress tests indicate 25-hour talk time and 65-hour audio playback.

Cons

• Older CPU for Modern Apps: Some high-end apps and benchmarks like Geekbench 6 may crash.

• No Expandable Storage: Users are limited to 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB.

Verdict: For most daily tasks, the XR performs reliably, though some modern testing apps or resource-intensive apps may push it to its limits.

iOS 18.7 Update for iPhone XR

In 2025, Apple released iOS 18.7, mainly targeting security patches from iOS 26, for devices including the XR, XS, and XS Max.

Update Highlights

• Size: ~611 MB

• Build Number: 22H20

• Available Space Increase: 1–2 GB after update

• Modem Firmware: 7.03.01 (unchanged)

Performance After Update

• Overall Smoothness: No lag or hanging detected.

• Battery Usage: No significant change, though battery health remains at 78% for older devices.

• App Performance: Some benchmarking apps may crash (e.g., Geekbench 6), but general apps run smoothly.

• Camera & Sound: No bugs reported; FaceTime and Safari media playback work seamlessly.

Should You Update?

• Recommendation: Safe to update, but wait a few days for long-term testing results.

• Reason: Primarily for security patches, not new features.

Verdict: iOS 18.7 improves device security and maintains smooth performance, though it does not introduce major new functionality.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery performance remains one of the most important factors for XR users.

Pros

• Decent Longevity: 25-hour talk time and 65-hour audio playback are still competitive.

• Stable Charging: No overheating observed during testing.

Cons

• Fast Drain for Older Devices: Battery health can drop to 78% or lower, affecting usage times.

• Non-Replaceable by Default: Users must rely on Apple services for battery replacements.

Tip: Monitor battery health and avoid heavy gaming or multiple video apps running simultaneously to conserve power.

Pros of the iPhone XR in 2025

1. Solid Build & Design: Premium feel with optional housing customizations.

2. Liquid Retina HD Display: Bright and colorful, supports HDR and Dolby Vision.

3. Reliable Performance: A12 Bionic chip ensures smooth multitasking.

4. Decent Camera: Single-lens rear camera still captures good quality images.

5. Face ID & Security: Advanced facial recognition with Retina Flash.

6. iOS 18.7 Update: Security-focused update keeps older devices safe.

7. Good Battery Life: Competitive talk and media playback times.

8. High Brightness & Color Accuracy: Makes media consumption enjoyable.

9. Media & Streaming Ready: Handles videos, music, and FaceTime without lag.

10. Affordable Compared to Newer iPhones: Provides a modern iPhone experience at lower cost.

Cons of the iPhone XR in 2025

1. Low Screen Resolution: 1792 x 828 pixels can appear less sharp compared to newer devices.

2. Single Rear Camera: Lacks telephoto and ultra-wide options for versatile photography.

3. Aging Hardware: May struggle with high-end apps and benchmarks.

4. Battery Degradation: Older batteries may drain quickly.

5. Non-Expandable Storage: Limited to 256GB max.

6. No New Features in Latest iOS: Updates focus on security patches rather than new functionality.

7. Heavier than Modern Devices: Bulkier design compared to newer slim models.

8. Potential App Crashes: Some apps like Geekbench 6 may crash due to older hardware.

9. No Advanced Display Resolution: Lacks OLED sharpness or 120Hz refresh rates.

10. Limited Future-Proofing: Newer iOS features may eventually be incompatible.

Is the iPhone XR Worth It in 2025?

The iPhone XR remains a solid choice for users seeking a reliable, large-screen iPhone without investing in the latest models. Its performance, display quality, and battery life are still competitive for daily use. The iOS 18.7 update ensures that even older devices stay secure and functional.

However, if you are a photography enthusiast or require high-resolution displays, the XR may feel outdated compared to modern devices. Similarly, power users may notice some limitations with demanding apps and gaming benchmarks.

Who Should Buy the iPhone XR in 2025?

• Users who want a budget-friendly iPhone with large screen and Face ID.

• Those who primarily use their phone for media consumption, video calls, and social media.

• Anyone who wants a reliable iOS experience without needing the latest flagship specs.

Who Should Consider Alternatives?

• Users seeking ultra-high-resolution cameras or multiple lenses.

• Gamers or users running resource-intensive apps frequently.

• Anyone who wants future-proofing for iOS updates beyond 2025.

Conclusion

In summary, the iPhone XR in 2025 offers a balanced mix of performance, design, and value. Its strengths include a bright, colorful display, reliable A12 Bionic performance, and long-lasting battery, while its main weaknesses involve camera limitations, lower resolution, and aging hardware.

The iOS 18.7 update ensures that security is up to date and overall device performance remains smooth. For most users, the XR remains a worthwhile choice, particularly for those who want an iPhone experience without paying flagship prices.

Overall Recommendation: If you own an iPhone XR, updating to iOS 18.7 is safe. For potential buyers in 2025, it is still a capable device, but consider your needs for photography, gaming, and future-proofing before committing.

FAQS

1. Is the iPhone XR still worth buying in 2025?

Yes, the iPhone XR remains a solid choice for budget-conscious users seeking a reliable smartphone. While it doesn’t support the latest iOS 26, it continues to offer a smooth user experience with iOS 18.7. However, newer models like the iPhone 11 or 12 may provide better performance and features for a slightly higher price.

2. How does the iPhone XR perform with iOS 18.7 in 2025?

With the iOS 18.7 update, the iPhone XR delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks such as browsing, social media, and video streaming. However, users have reported occasional app crashes and slower performance during intensive tasks, like running benchmark tests.

3. What are the pros and cons of the iPhone XR in 2025?

Pros:

• Affordable pricing

• Reliable performance for daily use

• Good camera quality for its age

• Long battery life

Cons:

• Lack of support for iOS 26

• Occasional app crashes and slower performance during intensive tasks

• No 5G support

• Older design compared to newer iPhone models

4. How is the battery life of the iPhone XR in 2025?

Battery life on the iPhone XR remains commendable, with users reporting up to a full day’s usage on a single charge. However, as with all lithium-ion batteries, capacity diminishes over time. Some users have noted a decrease in battery health to around 78% after several years of use.

5. Does the iPhone XR support 5G in 2025?

No, the iPhone XR does not support 5G connectivity. It is limited to 4G LTE, which may be sufficient for many users but could be a drawback for those seeking faster data speeds.

6. Can the iPhone XR handle gaming in 2025?

While the iPhone XR’s A12 Bionic chip can handle casual gaming, it may struggle with more graphically demanding games. Users have reported occasional lag and slower performance during intensive gaming sessions.

7. Is Face ID still secure on the iPhone XR in 2025?

Yes, Face ID continues to function securely and efficiently on the iPhone XR. There have been no significant security concerns reported regarding its facial recognition system.

8. How does the iPhone XR’s camera perform in 2025?

The iPhone XR’s 12MP rear camera still produces high-quality photos, especially in well-lit conditions. However, it lacks advanced features found in newer models, such as multiple lenses and improved low-light performance.

9. Should I upgrade from the iPhone XR to a newer model in 2025?

If you prioritize having the latest features, such as 5G connectivity, improved camera systems, and support for the latest iOS updates, upgrading to a newer iPhone model would be beneficial. However, if your iPhone XR still meets your needs, an upgrade may not be necessary.

10. How does the iPhone XR compare to the iPhone 11 in 2025?

The iPhone 11 offers several improvements over the XR, including a dual-camera system, better low-light photography, and support for newer iOS versions. While the XR remains a solid device, the iPhone 11 provides enhanced features and future-proofing.

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Sources:

• www.dxomark.com/apple-iphone-xr-camera-review/
• forums.macrumors.com/threads/iphone-xr-battery-health.2415496/
• www.reddit.com/r/iPhoneXR/comments/1i5b5dx/should_i_buy_an_xr_in_2025
• www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvB6kJs6UXI