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iPhone XR in 2025: Is This Still a Good Deal?

iPhone XR

When the iPhone XR hit the scene back in October 2018 (XR release date), it was Apple’s answer to the high-performance, lower-price demand. It packed the A12 Bionic chip, a colourful design, and solid battery life into a more affordable iPhone. For years, it’s been a crowd favourite—especially among the ladies (for reasons unknown, but deeply respected). In fact, the XR was Ogabassey’s top seller in 2024, and it still has fans online praising its reliability.

But let’s talk 2025. With newer devices flooding the market, the big question is:
Is the iPhone XR still good in 2025?
Let’s break it down with real facts and some answers to questions we keep getting in our DMs.

1. Performance in 2025: Can the XR Still Keep Up?

The iPhone XR runs on the A12 Bionic chip, which was powerful back in the day. But in 2025, paired with iOS 18, its age is beginning to show.

  • ✅ Yes for light users: social media, YouTube, texting, and calls are smooth.
  • ❌ No for power users: If you’re into heavy mobile gaming, video editing, or using the new AI features Apple is baking into iOS 18 and beyond, expect lags.

Bonus: The iPhone XR iOS 18 upgrade is already here. But don’t expect iPhone XR iOS 19 upgrade support—it’s not guaranteed.

2. Software Updates: For How Long?

One reason people still consider the XR is because Apple supports older phones longer than anyone else. The XR got iOS 18 in 2024, but will it get iOS 19?

  • ✅ Still receiving updates (as of mid-2025).
  • ❌ But probably not for long. iPhone XR iOS 19 upgrade is doubtful.

So, if long-term updates are your thing, this might be your cue to go up a model or two.

3. Battery Life: Still Solid or Struggling?

Is iPhone XR battery good in 2025? It depends on the battery health.

  • ✅ If the battery’s been replaced or is still above 85%, it’s decent.
  • ❌ If it’s original, it’s likely tired. Check battery health in Settings before buying. Anything below 80% will frustrate you.

Pro tip: Buy one and immediately plan for a battery replacement.

4. Camera in 2025: Can It Compete?

The XR rocks a single 12MP rear camera with Smart HDR. It was solid, but that was six years ago.

  • ✅ It’s still fine for Instagram stories, selfies, and the occasional outing.
  • ❌ Lacks night mode, ultrawide, telephoto, and the sharpness of newer models like the iPhone 11, 12, or SE 3rd Gen.

If casual photos are your vibe, you’re good. If you’re a content creator, look elsewhere.

5. Connectivity & Features: What the XR Can—and Can’t—Do

Let’s bust some myths and answer a few hot questions:

  • ❌ Can iPhone XR get 5G? Nope. The XR only supports 4G LTE.
  • ✅ Are iPhone XR eSIM compatible? Yes! Dual SIM with nano-SIM and eSIM support.
  • ❌ Are iPhone XR MagSafe? No. MagSafe was introduced with the iPhone 12.
  • ✅ Are iPhone XR waterproof? Not exactly. It’s water-resistant, rated IP67. That means it can survive splashes or a quick dunk, but don’t swim with it.

6. Pricing in 2025: Still a Bargain?

Expect to find the XR in the ₦250,000 – ₦300,000 range in the Nigerian used market. But for ₦50k–₦100k more, you can snag a used iPhone 11 or 12, both with better performance, camera upgrades, and more future-proofing.

Final Verdict: Is the XR Worth Buying in 2025?

✅ YES, IF:

  • You just need a simple iPhone for calls, chats, and browsing.
  • You’re on a strict budget.
  • You find one with good battery health and a clean body.

❌ NO, IF:

  • You want 5G, better cameras, or longer software support.
  • You rely on your phone for work, content creation, or gaming.
  • You can spend just a little more for a better experience.

Bottom Line:

The iPhone XR is still good in 2025—if you know what you’re signing up for. It’s best used as a secondary phone, a kid’s first iPhone, or a budget pick for someone who just wants the Apple experience without the Apple price tag. But let’s be honest: if you can stretch your budget even a little, you’ll get more bang for your buck with a newer model like the iPhone 13 that we reviewed here. Curious about the price of the iPhone XR? The 64gb version costs ₦293,250, while the 128 version is available for ₦327,750 via ogabassey.com

Would you still rock the XR in 2025? Drop your thoughts in the comments. We’d love to hear from the XR loyalists!