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:

1. Backup Your Data – Use iCloud or Finder on Mac.
2. Factory Reset – Wipe it clean before selling or recycling.
3. Sell or Trade-In – Ogabassey will offer you decent value for it.
4. Repurpose It – Use it as a dedicated music player, camera, or microphone for content creation.