Moving On from iPhone XR in 2025: Here’s What to Buy Next?
If you’re still rocking your iPhone XR in 2025, kudos — you've squeezed every drop of value from it! But here’s the hard truth: the XR is finally reaching its sunset. With iOS 19 expected to drop support for the XR later this year, your once-trusty device will no longer receive crucial security updates or the latest features.
So, what now? Let’s walk you through your best upgrade options — especially now that the iPhone 16 series, including the budget-friendly iPhone 16e, has hit the shelves.
The XR Has Had a Good Run
Launched in 2018, the XR brought Apple’s A12 Bionic chip, Face ID, and a colourful design to the masses. But in tech years, that’s ancient. Here’s what’s happening:
- No iOS 19 Support — Reports suggest Apple will not extend iOS 19 support to the XR, XS, or XS Max.
- No More Security Updates — Without updates, your phone is more vulnerable to bugs and exploits.
- App Compatibility Issues — As developers optimize apps for newer iOS versions, performance on older devices can suffer.
Time to upgrade — but not blindly. Let’s compare options.
Your 2025 Upgrade Options
iPhone 13 (2021) – A Solid Mid-Range Choice
- Chip: A15 Bionic (faster and more efficient than XR’s A12)
- Camera: Dual camera with Cinematic Mode
- Pros: Reliable performance, long battery life, still receiving updates until at least 2028
- Why Upgrade? Great step up without breaking the bank.
iPhone 14 Plus (2022) – Big Battery, Big Screen
- Chip: A15 Bionic with better thermal management
- Pros: 6.7" screen, huge battery, still “new enough”
- Why Upgrade? If you want longevity, size, and better low-light photos.
iPhone 15 (2023) – USB-C + Dynamic Island Comes to Base Models
- Chip: A16 Bionic
- Pros: USB-C, brighter screen, Dynamic Island (finally!), improved cameras
- Why Upgrade? Modern design with future-ready features — but not too pricey.
iPhone 16e (2024) – The XR’s Spiritual Successor
- Chip: A17 Fusion (a slightly underclocked A17 Pro)
- Pros: Lightweight, colourful, and affordable with many flagship features
- Battery Life: Optimized for all-day use
- Why Upgrade? If you loved the XR’s balance of fun + function, the 16e is your next best friend. It’s Apple’s answer to “budget but bold” in 2025.
iPhone 16 Pro (2024) – For the Power User
- Chip: A18 Pro
- Pros: Best cameras, titanium build, Apple Intelligence features, USB-C
- Why Upgrade? For creators, multitaskers, or anyone wanting top-tier everything.
Quick Comparison Chart
iPhone Model Release Year iOS Support Ends (Est.) Ideal For...
iPhone 13 2021 ~2028 Reliable upgrade
iPhone 14+. 2022 ~2029 Screen lovers
iPhone 15 2023 ~2030 Balanced modern choice
iPhone 16e 2024 ~2031 XR fans
iPhone 16 2024 ~2031+ Creators, power users
What to Do with Your XR
Before you make the leap:
- Backup Your Data – Use iCloud or Finder on Mac.
- Factory Reset – Wipe it clean before selling or recycling.
- Sell or Trade-In – Ogabassey will offer you decent value for it.
- Repurpose It – Use it as a dedicated music player, camera, or microphone for content creation.