If you own an iPhone X, an original HomePod, or AirPods, we’ve got bad news — Apple has added these products to its ‘vintage’ list, meaning if you’re holding onto them, it might be time to upgrade.

The company’s ‘vintage’ list notifies users that repairs will no longer be guaranteed at its Apple Stores. Devices are usually added to this list between five and seven years after Apple stopped distributing them for sale. For instance, the first-generation AirPods were made available in December 2016, the iPhone X in October 2017, and the original HomePod in February 2018. Therefore, these products are now eligible to be added to the vintage list.

Keep in mind though, that this doesn't mean these devices will suddenly stop working — it just means that it may now be harder for Apple to repair them. With Amazon Prime Day starting soon on July 16-17, this event could be a great opportunity to look into an upgrade if you own one of these three products.

Perfect timing for Amazon Prime Day

There are already a few Prime Day iPhone deals to take advantage of before Amazon’s event officially begins. If you’re still rocking an iPhone X and you’ve been happy with it, you may want to consider a renewed iPhone 14 Pro model. You’ll still benefit from a bunch of substantial upgrades, such as the camera, the Dynamic Island, and more.

For AirPods, the line has expanded into three: AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max, all of which are already discounted! Currently, the best Prime Day AirPods deal has the AirPods Pro 2 at $20 off at B&H Photo already, allowing you to take advantage of its great noise-cancellation feature. If you’re thinking about replacing your original HomePod, the second-generation model or the mini version are great replacements to consider. The HomePod mini comes in a variety of colors. Although the smart speaker isn’t currently on offer at Best Buy, we wouldn’t be surprised to see that change as we get closer to Prime Day and retailers start trying to compete with Amazon.

More from iMore

• Best Stands for Apple HomePod in 2024
• New AirPods Beta firmware improves sound quality during a call
• Here's why I traded in my AirPods Max after 3 years

iOS 17 was announced at WWDC 2023, and with it came the end of software updates for the iPhone X and iPhone 8, released in 2017.

A new report from SellCell suggests that the release of iOS 17 will see iPhone X and iPhone 8 models lose over 40% of their total value.

The report used past iPhone 6S and 7 sales history to forecast these value drops. "The iPhone 6S and 7 ranges depreciated by an average of 42.8% of their remaining value by the time Apple rolled out the iOS 16 update. The iPhone 8 and X are likely to follow suit."

It looks like owners of the iPhone 8, 8 Plus, and iPhone X should think about selling their devices sooner rather than later in anticipation of the release of the iPhone 15 alongside iOS 17 in September.

Apple has provided software updates to devices for around five years, giving you some of the best value and longevity in smartphone support. But, like most things in tech, the software outpaces the hardware at some point; unfortunately, that time has come for Apple's first full-screen iPhone.

What's next for iPhone?

iOS 17 is gearing up to be a great improvement to iPhone users with the addition of Contact Posters, StandBy, Check In, and finally, the ability to use multiple timers simultaneously in the Clock app.

It's not a software update you want to miss out on, especially considering the rumors surrounding the iPhone 15 lineup gaining the Dynamic Island across the board. Of course, Apple will still support hardware repairs of iPhone X and iPhone 8 models until the company renders them obsolete, which is still a few years away. 

But, if you want to have the best iPhone, you'll need the best iPhone software, which means considering an upgrade sooner rather than later.

If you've been following along with the news this week you probably already know that there is mass confusion about whether Apple is about to make the iPhone X and iPhone 8 essentially obsolete. At least, obsolete in terms of software updates.

Things all started when one leaker said that both the iPhones — plus the iPhone 8 Plus of course, and a handful of iPads — would not be supported when iOS 17 rolls around later this year. The update is expected to be announced during the WWDC23 event on June 5.

But then, just hours later, another leaker said that was completely wrong. Apple's aging iPhones will get iOS 17, just like they got iOS 16 last year. We're in the midst of a good old-fashioned leak-off, and it's all just far too confusing.

I will say this though. The leaker that contradicted the first, the one that says iOS 17 will support all the same devices that run iOS 16 today? They also leaked the iPhone 14 Pro's Dynamic Island. So, right now at least, they seem most likely to be on the money.

But I'd argue that Apple should cut the older models loose. It's time. Let me explain.

Five years is a lot of years not to sell an iPhone

This is arguably at the bottom of my three-pronged approach to why iOS 17 should not support the iPhone X and iPhone 8. But these things tend to come in threes, so here we are.

The iPhone X ushered in a new wave of iPhones sans Home Buttons. By contrast, the iPhone 8 was there to give people something comfortable. I went iPhone X, as you might expect. But I know some who stuck with the familiar shape and interaction the iPhone 8 brought along. They weren't ready for things to change, see.

But that was in 2017, a long, long time ago. Apple's said to be ready to revamp the iPhone SE and do away with the Home button for good.

If people are still rocking those iPhone X and iPhone 8 handsets there's a good chance that they are very much due for an upgrade. They don't need to throw their five-year-old model in the trash and rush out to buy the best iPhone they can find. Far from it. But those models are missing out on so much, thanks in part to that creaking A11 Bionic chip. And that's before we get into the many camera upgrades we've seen since then.

Time to put jailbreaking to bed

One of the reasons some people like to keep their iPhone X or iPhone 8 around is to jailbreak. Those phones are jailbroken at the bootrom level thanks to the A11 chip, meaning that Apple can't patch them using software.

That in turn means that, so long as the jailbreaking tool of choice has been updated for the new software, every version of iOS installed on an iPhone X or iPhone 8 can be jailbroken. The actual mechanics of the jailbreak are already done. And they have been for years.

Now, even the biggest jailbreaker will admit that the scene isn't what it once was. Apple has removed the need in recent years as it continues to add new features to iOS. Multitasking and widgets are two examples of reasons people used to jailbreak their iPhones. Both features exist in iOS by default today.

There's one reason to jailbreak that isn't going away though. That's, unfortunately, piracy. There are plenty of bad reasons for Apple to stick to its App Store method of software installation and management, but piracy is a good one. And jailbreaking allows people to pirate apps and games with surprising ease. But by making it less appealing to stick to older iPhones while still running the latest software, Apple puts the pressure on. Do you want to steal a $0.99 app, or get the fancy new features?

They've got to go eventually

Finally, we're back to that A11 Bionic again.

Apple will very likely ship the iPhone 15 Pro with the A17 Bionic later this year. It'll surely be the fastest chip ever put inside an iPhone. And the same was said about the A11 Bionic in 2017. But today? Today, it's getting long in the tooth.

That's fine, but Apple could well start hitting the limitations of that chip if it hasn't already. The day Apple starts to struggle to implement features or experiences because the A11 Bionic can't keep up is the day it shouldn't be supported. I'd argue it's a year too late, but iPhone X and iPhone 8 owners might disagree there.

In short, Apple has to drop support for its old iPhones eventually. Why not with iOS 17?

If Apple follows its usual release cadence we can expect it to unveil iOS 17 at its WWDC23 event on June 5, 2023. But a new report claims that Apple is getting ready to drop support for some big hardware at that time.

That report believes that Apple's iOS 17 won't support the iPhone that started the current design language, the iPhone X. It also won't support the phone that a lot of people still cling to in the shape of the iPhone 8 as well.

It isn't just the iPhone, either. Plenty of iPads are also thought to be getting cut loose with the 2023 software updates.

But a secondary, contradictory report has added confusion by saying that Apple will retain support for at least some of these devices.

No more updates for you?

The original report, which comes via a Twitter leaker with a track record, also claims that the first-gen 9.7-inch and 12.9-inch iPads will also be left without iPadOS 17 support. The report was first spotted by MacRumors and also claims that the fifth-gen iPad will not get a big new software update this year.

While this doesn't necessarily mean that owners of those devices will have to immediately rush out and buy the best iPhone or iPad they can find, it does mean that they'll need to upgrade to something a little newer if they want to be able to enjoy whatever new features Apple unveils at WWDC23.

We've already been told to expect some quality-of-life improvements from iOS 17 in particular, which could make missing out on iOS 17 particularly upsetting.

Maybe, maybe not

However, a more recent report from another anonymous leaker posting to the MacRumors forums claims that the same iPhones that were supported by iOS 16 will continue to be supported this time around as well. That would mean that the iPhone X and iPhone 8 will still get iOS 17 come September time.

The leaker didn't specifically say that the iPadOS 17 update would support all existing devices, but they did add that devices running A11 chips will be good to go.

It's also worth noting that this second leaker is the same person who confirmed the existence of the Dynamic Island before the iPhone 14 Pro was announced.

With this all said, it's now unclear exactly which devices will get which software updates.

If you're using something newer than an iPhone X you can be pretty sure you'll get iOS 17 either way.

Apple has been using biometrics for security on the iPhone and iPad for some time now. With Touch ID or Face ID, getting into your device is as easy as a touch or face scan, rather than having to input a long password or passcode each time. However, sometimes biometric security can be used against you, such as with law enforcement, criminals, or just nosy family members.

Thankfully, Apple also made it very easy to temporarily disable biometric authentication if the need ever arises. Here's how to quickly disable Face ID or Touch ID on your current iPhone or iPad.

Which devices support Face ID?

As of June 2022, there are five generations of iPhone and three generations of iPad Pro that support Face ID.

• iPhone X
• iPhone XR
• iPhone XS
• iPhone XS Max
• iPhone 11
• iPhone 11 Pro
• iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone 12 mini
• iPhone 12
• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13 mini
• iPhone 13
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPad Pro 11-inch (2018)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018)
• iPad Pro 11-inch (2020)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020)
• iPad Pro 11-inch (2021)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021)

Which devices support Touch ID?

As of June 2022, these are the following Apple devices that support Touch ID (that are not yet obsolete or vintage status):

• iPhone 5S
• iPhone 6
• iPhone 6 Plus
• iPhone 6S
• iPhone 6S Plus
• iPhone 7
• iPhone 7 Plus
• iPhone SE (2016)
• iPhone 8
• iPhone 8 Plus
• iPhone SE (2020)
• iPhone SE (2022)
• iPad mini 3
• iPad mini 4
• iPad mini 5
• iPad mini 6
• iPad 5
• iPad 6
• iPad 7
• iPad 8
• iPad 9
• iPad Air 2
• iPad Air 3
• iPad Air 4
• iPad Air 5
• iPad Pro (2015)
• iPad Pro (2016)
• iPad Pro (2nd Gen)

How to temporarily disable Face ID or Touch ID

1. Press and hold the Wake button and either one of the volume buttons simultaneously. The Wake button on iPhone is on the landscape side and on the portrait side on iPad Pro.
2. Tap Cancel if you're looking to unlock your phone or just tap the Side button to turn off the display.
3. Enter your password or passcode the next time you want to unlock your iPhone or iPad Pro. Face ID should resume its normal function at that time.

Note: You can also rapidly press the Sleep/Wake button five times in succession, but this triggers automatically calling emergency services. You'll want to make sure you quickly tap the Cancel button within three seconds.

Keep your iPhone or iPad secure at all times

It shouldn't come up very often, but sometimes you simply need to disable biometric authentication to prevent others from getting into your device without permission. The process for doing this is very easy and quick, and once the situation passes, you can go about your day by inputting your password or passcode.

Updated June 2022: Updated device lists for Face ID and Touch ID. The steps to temporarily disable biometrics are still the same with current devices.

Starting with the iPhone X, Apple moved on to Face ID for biometric authorization on most devices, replacing Touch ID. Face ID allows you to unlock your iPhone or iPad Pro with just your face, instead of your fingerprint. You could even use it to authorize Apple Pay payments, confirm iTunes and App Store purchases, activate autofill in Safari, and so much more. Plus, a lot of third-party apps support Face ID as an extra layer of security too.

Face ID is only available on devices that lack a Home (or side button in the case of the newer iPad Air models) and also use the TrueDepth camera system. With the TrueDepth cameras, there are a few cool tricks that Face ID can do, such as requiring your full, undivided attention.

Here's how to set up Face ID on your best iPhone and iPad.

Which devices support Face ID?

As of May 2022, there are five generations of iPhone and three generations of iPad Pro that support Face ID.

• iPhone X
• iPhone XR
• iPhone XS
• iPhone XS Max
• iPhone 11
• iPhone 11 Pro
• iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone 12
• iPhone 12 mini
• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13
• iPhone 13 mini
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPad Pro 11-inch (2018)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2018)
• iPad Pro 11-inch (2020)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020)
• iPad Pro 11-inch (2021)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021)

How to use Face ID for iPhone Unlock, Apple Pay, App Store purchases, and more

You can use Face ID for more than unlocking your iPhone or iPad Pro. It can also be used for authorizing Apple Pay, making purchases on the App Store, and auto-filling login information in Safari.

1. Open Settings on your supported iPhone or iPad Pro.
2. Tap Face ID & Passcode.

3. Enter your passcode.
4. Flip the switches for iPhone/iPad Unlock, Apple Pay, iTunes & App Store, and Password AutoFill on or off depending on your preference.

How to manage Face ID use with apps

Apps that support biometric authorization (Face ID and Touch ID) can be managed in settings, letting you turn permission to use Face ID on and off.

1. Open Settings on your supported iPhone or iPad Pro.
2. Tap Face ID & Passcode.
3. Enter your passcode.

4. Tap Other Apps.
5. Flip the switches for the apps that have requested to use Face ID on or off.

How to manage attention features for Face ID

The TrueDepth camera, by default, will sense if you're actually looking at your iPhone when trying to unlock with Face ID, and your phone won't unlock if you're not. But these attention-aware features also go beyond unlocking your phone.

1. Open Settings on your supported iPhone or iPad Pro.
2. Tap Face ID & Passcode.
3. Enter your passcode.

4. Flip the switch next to Require Attention for Face ID to the on or off position depending on your preference. By default, this feature is turned on.
5. Flip the switch next to Attention Aware Features to the on or off position depending on your preference. By default, this feature is turned on.

With "Attention Aware Features" turned on, the TrueDepth camera will check to see if you're looking at your iPhone before it dims your display or lowers the volume of alerts.

How to use Face ID with a Mask

A more recent feature that Apple added in the latest versions of iOS 15 is the ability to use Face ID with a mask. Previously, if the iPhone detected a face mask on you while trying to unlock, it will immediately bring up the passcode screen instead of trying to scan your face. Now Face ID can be set up so that it recognizes you even with a mask, no passcode needed. And while those who had the best Apple Watch could use it to unlock the iPhone if the face is not recognized, this feature makes it work for everyone, no Apple Watch needed.

1. Launch Settings on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Tap Face ID & Passcode.

3. Input your passcode.
4. Scroll down and tap the toggle for Face ID With A Mask to ON (green).

A better way to secure your device

As you can see, Face ID is easy to set up on your supported iPhone or iPad Pro model. It's a lot more convenient than Touch ID too. Plus, without a Home button, you get to make full use of that device size for the display. And yes, while Face ID may not always work in the beginning, it learns more about your appearance each time, so it gets smarter the more you use it. Just be careful to not accidentally reset your Face ID, because there is no confirmation prompt for that, which is unfortunate. Plus, you can also set up an alternate appearance for an extra layer of security, such as you with a hat or pair of glasses on.

Updated May 2022: Added information on how to use Face ID with a Mask.

If you have an iPhone that supports wireless or Qi charging (iPhone 8 or newer), you might consider one of these wireless iPhone charging pads to go along with it. Wireless charging offers the convenience of just setting your iPhone down to charge without having to fumble with a Lightning cable. While the iPhone 8 through iPhone 11 handsets can charge at up to 7.5W, the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 lineups can fast-charge at up to 15W, so keep that in mind as you shop. These are some of our favorite iPhone charging pads that you can get right now.

The best wireless charging pads for you

These are all great wireless iPhone charging pads that fit various needs but wireless charging makes your life just a little bit easier. It might seem like a little thing, but there's something great about being able to just pick up your iPhone off of a charging pad and go and put it back there when you return.

If you have any devices from the iPhone 12 or 13 lines, then the Apple MagSafe Charger is the obvious pick. There's something so satisfying about that click when it snaps onto the back of your phone and the animation that shows you where your battery's at right now. There are also a bunch of alternative MagSafe Chargers if you want to go third-party.

If you want something inexpensive and easy, go for the Anker PowerWave 10W Pad. At that price point, you can keep a few in different areas of the home or office; it takes up very little space.

If you need to charge more than just one iPhone at a time, there are triple wireless charging pads available. These will allow you to charge multiple iPhones and other Qi-enabled devices.

What you need to know

• Apple is rolling out a repair improvement to the iPhone X.
• Technicians can now replace the True Depth camera system without replacing the entire phone.
• The change was launched last month for the iPhone XS and later.

Apple has expanded True Depth camera repairs to the iPhone X, according to a new report.

From MacRumors:

The update means that Apple technicians can now repair the True Depth camera across all of Apple's best iPhones from the iPhone X onwards, so all of the iPhones that use Face ID. Not only will this reduce the price and possibly the turnaround time of repairs for such devices, it also frees up full unit swap parts for people who need them more, reducing the impact of repairs of the iPhone.

Apple has used Face ID across its flagship iPhone lineup since the iPhone X, and it continues to be the go-to biometric security measure in the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13.

For customers who prefer Touch ID and don't mind the old iPhone SE's form factor, Apple has the iPhone SE, recently refreshed to include the A15 Bionic chip and an A5 processor, as well as camera improvements.

So, the time has come to purchase an iPhone for your child. Which one should you buy? Our top pick is the iPhone 13, which is slightly cheaper than Apple's current flagship device, the iPhone 14. It's a highly-rated smartphone that comes in unique colors and is also packed with the excellent features your 21st-century kiddo expects and wants. We've gathered other noteworthy models to help you choose the best one that fits your needs.

Best overall: iPhone 13

The iPhone 13 was introduced alongside the iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max in 2021. Available in Pink, Blue, Midnight, Starlight, PRODUCT(RED), and Green, the model has 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage. Like the other 2021 iPhones, this model is compatible with MagSafe accessories and wireless chargers. It also features 5G wireless, where available, for super-fast downloads and high‑quality streaming. The iPhone 13's battery allows up to 19 hours of video-playing between charges, 15 hours when that video is streamed, and up to 75 hours of audio playback. You can get up to a 50% charge with fast-charge in just 30 minutes.

Phones and kids sometimes mean unexpected falls, which is why we highly recommend this model over the newer (more expensive) iPhone 14 or Pro versions of the iPhone 13. It offers a ceramic shield front that provides excellent protection. However, you should still consider one of the best iPhone 13 cases to add further protection. The phone's body is made from aerospace-grade aluminum, and it provides water resistance to a depth of six meters for up to 30 minutes.

Last year's flagship iPhone is still quite a relevant smartphone, with a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, an A15 Bionic chip (which is the same as the pricier iPhone 14 or iPhone 13 Pro.) On the back, you'll find a dual 12MP camera system (Ultra Wide and Wide); on the front, there's a 12MP TrueDepth camera. New to this model is Cinematic mode in 1080p at 30 fps.

There are four main areas where the iPhone 13 compares unfavorably with the much higher-priced iPhone 13 Pro (and iPhone 13 Pro Max). First, only the Pro models feature a Telephoto camera and a LiDAR Scanner for Night mode portraits, faster autofocus in low light, and next-level AR experiences. The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max are the only two 2021 models to include surgical-grade stainless steel. 

The iPhone 14 does have some new features such as Crash Detection, camera improvements like action mode, and other small tweaks. Note that only the Pro models come with up to 1TB of storage. Most kids won't need these additional features.

If you love the look of the iPhone 13 but think it's too big for your child, keep reading and consider the iPhone 13 mini. If you prefer to buy your child the latest and greatest, of course the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro are great picks. 

Cheaper than the iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, and the entire iPhone 14 lineup with nearly the same goodies.

Best alternative: iPhone 12

The iPhone 12 was released in the fall of 2020. Available in Blue, Green, PRODUCT (RED), White, and Black, the model has 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of storage. As our iPhone 13 vs. iPhone 12 comparison shows, this model is nearly the same as the newer one, but for $100 less. Similar features include the same 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, MagSafe compatibility, and 5G. The iPhone 12's battery offers up to 17 hours of video-playing between charges, 11 hours when that video is streamed, and 65 hours of audio playback.

Last year's flagship iPhone comes with an A14 Bionic chip. On the back, you'll find a dual 12MP camera system (Ultra Wide and Wide); on the front, there's a 12MP TrueDepth camera. Together, kids have all the tools to take high-quality photos and videos. They can also take advantage of Animoji and Memoji, which they can send to their friends.

Cheaper than the iPhone 13, but with many of the same features.

Best small display: iPhone 13 mini

There's very little to distinguish the iPhone 13 mini from its larger brother, the iPhone 13, except its size, which is perfect for smaller hands. Excluding the iPhone 13 mini's smaller display (5.4-inches vs. 6.1-inches), the two handsets share the same internals, camera systems, and materials.

Beyond size, the smaller one provides less battery life; up to 17 hours of video-playing, 13 hours when the video is streamed, and up to 55 hours of audio playback. Pixel resolution is also ever-so-slightly less.

The bottom line: You should purchase this model for your child if they like everything about the iPhone 13 but want a smaller device. Plus, it's $100 less than the iPhone 13. It's the same price as the iPhone 12 with newer internals and features.

It's the iPhone 13, except in a smaller package. Inside are the same great internals.

Best budget: iPhone SE (2022)

Not everyone wants to buy a new iPhone every year with the latest bells and whistles. For those folks, there's the iPhone SE (2022). The third iPhone SE to date, it's the least expensive iPhone on the market.

Featuring Touch ID, not Face ID, the 4.7-inch iPhone SE (2022) is still packed with plenty of features worth considering. These include a 12MP camera and 7 MP FaceTime HD camera, A15 Bionic chip with a 16-core Neural Engine, wireless charging, Haptic Touch, etc. The iPhone SE (2022) is available for hundreds less than other handsets on this list.

A perfect choice for anyone who wants to get an iPhone but not spend a lot.

Best premium: iPhone 14 Pro

The iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are identical except for their sizes, 6.1-inches vs. 6.7-inches. The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max are a big jump from the iPhone 13, price-wise, but if you're shopping for an older teen and aren't too fussed about price, these are the top of the line right now. In addition to everything the iPhone 13 has, the iPhone 14 Pro adds the Dynamic Island, Crash Detection, ProMotion Technology with adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, Always-On Display, 48MP camera, Photonic Engine, video action mode, more optical zoom options, 23 hours of video playback, A16 Bionic chip, and other improvements.

Beyond this, the Pro models have a stronger body (ceramic front shield and surgical-grade stainless steel), one more camera (Telephoto), a LIDAR Scanner, and more storage options. They also come in different colors: Deep Purple, Gold, Silver, and Space Black.  

The biggest negative here shouldn't come as much of a surprise. The iPhone 14 Pro is expensive at every storage level.

Does your child deserve the best iPhone around? If they do, this is the one to get.

Best large display: iPhone 14 Plus

The least expensive large display you can get on an iPhone right now is the iPhone 14 Plus. Price-wise, it sits above the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 but below the iPhone 14 Pro. The feature set is identical to the iPhone 14, only it's a larger phone and costs $100 more. 

For an older child or teen that needs that big screen, I'd go with this one over the iPhone 14 Pro Max just because of price. 

Go large or go home!

The best iPhone for kids

If you're looking for an Apple handset for your kiddo, you'll quickly notice there's a wide selection from which to choose. Our advice is to go with the iPhone 13, which provides most of the top features of the pricier handsets, but for less. It also comes in more vibrant colors, which might be important to your son or daughter.

Among the features packed into this beast is Apple's A15 Bionic chip with the 16-core Neural Engine. You'll also find 5G support, Dolby Vision HDR video, Cinematic mode for recording videos, MagSafe compatibility, etc.

What you need to know

• An iPhone X customized to offer a USB-C port has sold for $3,000.
• Unlike a similar USB-C iPhone, this one retained its waterproof rating.
• A previous USB-C iPhone X sold for $86,000.

Someone selling what they called the "world's 'first waterproof USB-C iPhone X" has seen an eBay auction for the device end with a winning bid of just $3,000. That's considerably less than the $86,000 a non-waterproof version sold for not too long ago.

The sale, which seems to have been to the one and only bidder, will no doubt be a disappointment to the iPhone's creator. It appears that demand was considerably lower than the iPhone that came before it, despite this being the first iPhone X to include not only USB-C but a claim of being waterproof to boot.

Creator shared the following video and text on the iPhone's eBay auction:

While it might have sold for $80,000 less than hoped, $3,000 will still give the seller plenty of money to bag themselves a shiny new iPhone 14 later this year, at least.

If you have butterfingers like I do, or you work in an environment that can be hazardous to your phone, you might be looking for a heavy-duty case for your iPhone XR. I prefer not to take on the bulk of a heavy-duty case, but once I burn through my two AppleCare+ incidents, you can bet I'll be slapping on one of these babies daily.

Which one should you buy?

Regardless of your case budget, there is a protective case on this list for everyone. When I'm going to be in a situation where I know a drop might be more possible, I'm most likely to put a Speck Presidio Grip on my iPhone. I personally prefer a slimmer design, and this one is relatively slim while still offering some serious protection. It doesn't hurt that it comes in such attractive colours. For me, this is a step up in protection from my usual slim cases.

If protection matters above all else, I'd go for the OtterBox Defender. It's almost like putting two cases on your phone, a hard inner shell for reliable protection and a softer outer shell for a bit of give in case of drops. The holster is removable so you can use it or not. Thank goodness this model doesn't come with the built-in screen protector; those interfere with touch screens in my experience. Since this case is screenless, you can use any screen protector you like, one that doesn't decrease the functionality of your phone. Price-wise it sits about in the middle, but what you're paying for isn't style or looks, it's heavy-duty protection.

The iPhone XR was the first iPhone in years to be released with fantastic colour options. Sure, you can get classic black or white, but you can also choose blue, yellow, coral, and (PRODUCT) RED. Why would you want to obscure that beauty with an opaque case? Here are some of the best options for protecting it without hiding the colour.

Rugged: UAG Plasma Series

This tough case meets military drop-test standards and has a robust, masculine feel. Despite the solid appearance, the case is surprisingly light-weight.

£25 at Amazon

Rigid: Caudabe Synthesis

Caudabe's Synthesis is thin but powerful. The bumper is flexible and textured so your iPhone won't slip out of your hands, but the back is smooth and rigid.

£19 at Amazon

Eye-Catching: Ciel by Cyrill Case

Here is a fun, inexpensive clear case with a pattern printed on it. Cover your iPhone with cacti, pineapples, roses, and more.

From £12 at Amazon

Protective

Which is best for you?

Whether you're choosing an iPhone XR in a fun colour like red or yellow, or a classic colour like silver or space grey, you're going to want to show it off. Clear cases allow you to do that while still offering some protection. My personal favourite is the Spigen Ultra Hybrid because it looks excellent and offers solid protection against scratches and scuffs.

If you want to have a little fun with colour and pattern but still want the iPhone XR to show through, the Ciel by Cyrill Case is an excellent option. If you find yourself needed to prop up your iPhone, the ESR Kickstand Case will undoubtedly come in handy.

You've laid out a lot of cash for that gorgeous new iPhone XR. You want to keep it safe and looking pristine, but you don't want to spend a lot of money to do so (you've already spent so much money as it is!). Or maybe you like having several different cases to swap out for different looks, and you don't want to break the bank. Either way, here are some of our favourite cheap cases for the iPhone XR.

Cheap doesn't mean second-rate

Just because your case is cheap, it doesn't have to be simple. Well, it can be if that's what you like. But there are lots of options here without spending lots of money. I'd go for the Sonix Case. It doesn't skimp on quality or protection.

When you are excited about all of these cool designs, it'd be easy to see this and do a mad dash to find your wallet. If you had the Rssviss Leather Wallet, you wouldn't have to look any further than the back of your phone. This may be the most useful case for people who are on-the-go or just forgetful. Hey, don't look at me... I just know my weak points.

Congratulations, you just got a shiny iPhone XS in your hands, but now comes the tough part: protecting that gorgeous phone. Whether you want to go naked or put a case on it, you should always have at least a screen protector to keep that glass panel safe and sound. After all, it just takes one slip of the hand and BAM! A cracked screen. Here are our top recommendations, just for you!

Protect your iPhone's screen with a reliable screen protector

You just dropped a lot of money on a new phone, so the least you should do is ensure it's protected and maintained well. These are the best screen protectors that we know of on Amazon, and none of them are too expensive. I went with the amFilm for my iPhone XS because its Nintendo Switch tempered screen protectors are still going strong on my console, so I trust the quality.

The premium choice, the TORRAS Screen Protector is worth the extra money. While any of the protectors on this list are going to be similar in protective ability, the difference between them is the way they look and feel on your phone. Not only is the TORRAS screen protector great for facial recognition but once installed you can also barely see it or feel it due to its perfect size and shape. This allows you to enjoy your iPhone XS the way it was intended.

A case is always a good idea to protect your new iPhone from those occasional unintentional spills. There are so many different kinds of cases out there; some are more protective, while others are less bulky. Some phones hold your cards and cash, so you don't have to carry your wallet everywhere. Some people like the case to make a statement, while other people want the case to fade away while the phone takes centre stage.

Thinnest: Totallee Thin Case

Totallee's cases are just about as thin as a case can be and still be a case. They're meant to give you a fraction of protection without bulking up your phone or getting in your way. At only .02 inches to get any thinner, you'd need to put a decal on your phone. Totallee offers up a pretty significant variety of cases as well with eight different colour options running the gamut from completely clear to jet black.

All of the cases are the same super-thin construction. However, some differences are depending on the colour option you choose. Some of them offer up an extra grippy case to ensure it doesn't slip out of your hand at an inopportune time, while others have raised protection around your camera lens.

This is the perfect case for people who hate cases. They don't get any thinner than this.

Best Medium Weight Protection: Lifeproof SLAM

Lifeproof dubs the SLAM case as one that is "dedicated to the drop." This case isn't nearly as bulky as some other options but still manages to keep your phone protected when it inevitably gets dropped. The construction gives you two tiers of protection so that drops don't have to be terrifying as you check your phone to ensure it hasn't been irreparably damaged.

The cases themselves are mostly clear and designed to complement the fabulous new iPhone XR colours. However, they do have a thin strip of colour to differentiate the case from your actual phone. The Lifeproof SLAM also doesn't cover any of your ports or buttons, ensuring that usability doesn't suffer for protection.

Protect your phone while letting its glorious colour show through with this heavy-duty but clear case.

Best Lightweight Protection: UAG Pathfinder Series

The UAG Pathfinder series of cases deliver a case that looks like it can withstand just about anything that life throws at you and your phone. It features an ultra-light composite shell that protects your phone without weighing it down and includes a soft impact resistant core.

It isn't all about looks either. The UAG Pathfinder is Apple Pay and wireless charging compatible, which means you'll never need to rip your case off at an inopportune time. While this case does cover your buttons, they're still usable, and a rubber lip also protects your screen during falls. Best of all, this case is rated for severe falls making it all-around protection you can trust.

You don't have to carry a heavy case to get heavy-duty protection. This is my husband's absolute favourite case.

Coolest: Mous Limitless 2.0

Not all phone cases are created equal, but it seems like many of them share a certain aesthetic. If you want to stand out from the crowd, the Mous Limitless 2.0 might be just the ticket. These cases are made from natural materials like bamboo or walnut that give them a unique look.

Mous cases are crafted from a high impact material, AiroShock™, which "contains tiny air pockets and cross-linking polymer chains that work like springs." They also include screen protectors and are compatible with wireless charging.

Go beyond the ordinary case with this smart design. Choose from leather, walnut, bamboo, and shell.

Best Value Wallet Folio: Snakehive Leather Wallet Case

Having a gorgeous leather case for your phone doesn't need to be an expensive accessory. The Snakehive Leather Wallet Case delivers a great leather folio that won't break the bank. Hand-crafted from European nubuck leather, the Snakehive Leather Wallet case has a nice velvety feel to it. It holds up to three cards plus cash and the folio portion can be used to prop up the phone for video watching.

You're able to choose from eleven different colour options, including black, brown, plum, and even moss green. Since the cases are made from real leather, they'll gain a patina as they age, making them an excellent investment. There is also a case stand so you can set your phone on its side to watch videos.

If you're looking for a good-quality wallet folio-style case but don't want to spend a lot, this is your best bet.

Best Value: Spigen Neo Hybrid

Spigen is a longtime favourite brand; its mix of price and quality can't be beaten. You can't go wrong with any of its cases, but the Neo Hybrid has an unusual and masculine look. The case has a slim profile, and it's also lightweight, so your phone will be protected without feeling heavy or bulky. It uses a combination shock-absorbing TPU case and polycarbonate bumper to ensure your phone doesn't take damage when it's dropped.

The Spigen Neo Hybrid is available in four colours: jet black, gunmetal, red, and satin silver. Instead of covering your buttons and ports, there are cutouts to ensure that you never have issues pressing buttons. It's even reinforced at the cutouts to provide a snug fit over the frame of your phone.

We love Spigen cases here at iMore; they are consistently well-priced and high-quality.

Bottom line

Finding the right case for you isn't always an easy call, and with so many options available, it can become even more difficult. Every option that we've suggested here will protect your phone from accidental mishaps. We like the Totallee Thin Case for its almost invisible look, but we don't recommend it if you are a dropper. This is for protection from scratches, not drops.

For those of us who drop their phones all the time, the Urban Armor Gear is more our speed. It can take a beating and still keep your phone safe and secure.

A leather case brings style and class to your iPhone. Leather is warm and classic, in lively contrast with the iPhone's cool modern glass and metal form. Leather can also lend a sort of gravitas to the whimsical colours in the iPhone XR line. Leather can vary widely in price — and quality — but on this list, you'll find something for every budget.

Bottom Line

As a general rule, when it comes to leather, you get what you pay for. If you want your case to last you for years and develop that famous patina, you'll want to invest in one of the pricier options. A case made of PU leather isn't going to have the same longevity or luxurious feel, but that may not matter for some.

For the best mix of style, quality, function, and price, I'd go with the Snakehive Leather Wallet Case. It looks and feels fantastic, with a medium price point. The wallet portion holds both cards and cash, the TPU lining protects the phone, and the case doubles as a stand for your device! This leather case does have it all.

If you're looking for a mix of luxury and cool factor, the Bellroy leather case should be right up your alley, with convenient secret compartments and a slim, modern design. On the other hand, the Fly Hawk Wallet Case and KelaSip Card Holder Case are both great affordable options if you're shopping on a budget.

Offering the same cutting edge internals as the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max, the iPhone XR is noted for its colorful selection and less expensive price. Featuring a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display, the iPhone XR comes in six gorgeous colors, each slightly more unique than the last. Need some help deciding which hue to get your iPhone XR in? Let's take a look at everything being offered.

Traditionally, Apple has released a (PRODUCT)RED iPhone version mid-year. However, when it came time to release the iPhone XR, it didn't wait. Like the other five colors, the (PRODUCT)RED iPhone XR was released on Day 1. Bold and powerful, this is the iPhone XR you should get if you want to make a statement and also feel awesome about your purchase. Proceeds benefit the Global Fund, which fights AIDS.

Sleek is a great word to describe the iPhone XR in white. Perhaps the least flashy of the iPhone XR models, the white version still packs a punch even without drawing too much attention to itself. Other colors will come and go as styles change. White, however, is a timeless choice.

The iPhone XR in black is the most subdued iPhone XR version you can purchase. Like the white model, this color is always a popular choice for mobile devices for many precisely because it isn't flashy. When you can't make an iPhone XR choice based on color, this is the model you should get.

The blue iPhone XR will remind many of springtime when the colors of the world are starting to pop for another year. More powder blue than traditional blue, the iPhone XR in blue is a terrific choice if you want a handset that stands out, but not as much as perhaps the yellow and coral versions.

Understated is not a word to describe the iPhone XR in yellow. It's bold, brash, and ready to make an entrance wherever it's carried. Too bold for your tastes? There are five other choices from which to decide!

If you really want to stand out, you can't go wrong with the iPhone XR in coral. Not as iconic as the (PRODUCT)RED model or as flashy as the one in yellow, the coral model is breathtakingly beautiful in a fun way that's new for Apple.

What you need to know

• A USB-C iPhone has just been sold on eBay.
• The final price came in at $86,001.
• 116 bids were made for the iPhone X modified by an enthusiast.

The world's only USB-C iPhone, created by an enthusiast who modified an iPhone X has just sold on eBay for $86,001.

The auction closed at 11 am ET and is no longer listed on the site, however iMore can confirm the winning bid was $86,001. Bidding exploded last week shortly after the phone was posted. Ken Pillonel took an iPhone X and modified it to include a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, stating:

The auction went live on November 1, climbing steadily from $1,625 up to $14,800, before a big bid of $30,000 dropped. More outlandish bids followed through November 4, however, the hype didn't continue for the rest of the device's auction. When we reported on the price last week it was $85,000, climbing by only $1,001 in the remaining seven days. The price has actually dropped, a few bids have been retracted including several for between $86,000 and $90,000. A couple of spoof bids were noted for $1 million but turned out to be fake. Although you have to imagine Mr. Pillonel is still fairly happy with $85,000.

The phone's new owner has secured a "true piece of collection for any Apple fanboy out there", but according to the device's listing conditions, agrees not to restore, update, or erase the phone, not to use it as their daily driver, and not to tinker with any of the internals. They also get a 30 minute call with its creator to ask any questions they want.

Earlier this week an ultra-rare Apple-1 computer from 1976 sold at auction in California for a whopping $500,000.

What you need to know

• Apple is upgrading the loaner phone for its repair service.
• Apple and its authorized service providers will now offer customers an iPhone XR as a loaner device.
• The company currently offers an iPhone 8.

If your iPhone needs a repair and you end up with a loaner, it's about to get better.

As reported by MacRumors, Apple is changing its loaner device from an iPhone 8 to the newer and nicer iPhone XR. According to a memo obtained by the outlet, Apple Stores and Apple's Authorized Service Providers will start offering the newer iPhone as a loaner later this week.

According to the report, the change will occur on Thursday, November 4:

Starting on that day, if a customer has an iPhone repair that turns out to be lengthier, Apple or an Authorized Service Provider can offer the customer an iPhone XR as a loaner device.

That will be good news to anyone who has rocked Apple's newer design and had to go back to using an iPhone 8 as a loaner.

Today only at Woot, you can save on an Apple iPhone XS in refurbished condition. These 64GB devices are available fully-unlocked for just $349.99 in your choice of space gray or gold. They are offered in Grade A refurbished condition so there will be little by way of cosmetic blemishes and they will work like new. Each comes backed by a 90-day Woot warranty.

$899.99 $1299.00 Save $399 1623157769

Having now been replaced by the 24-inch M1 iMac, Apple's 21.5-inch iMac has been discontinued. That means big savings at third-party retailers including at Amazon where it's discounted by $399.

Prices Vary 1622214797

This sale includes iPhone models, the Apple Watch, iMac and iPad devices, Beats headphones, Apple services, and more. The deals vary by product, so be sure to check them all out now.

$103.99 $129.99 Save $26 1621604395

Change how you use your iPad with the Apple Pencil. This stylus lets you use your iPad as a notepad, a canvas, or a drawing board for all of your ideas. Today's deal saves you 20% instantly at Verizon.

$599.99 $699.00 Save $99 1621519150

Updated in late 2020, the Mac Mini has Apple's M1 chip that combines CPU, GPU, and machine learning for faster performance, better graphics, and an all around streamlined device. This version has 8GB RAM and a 256GB solid state drive.

From $329 1621244196

Apple Watch Series 6 models are available for some of their best prices ever right now. The lowest price is on the red 40mm version which is $70 off with 44mm and cellular models seeing discounts of up to $91.

Though the iPhone XS is no longer the latest model, it's still a great phone by modern standards. If you were to get a renewed model at Amazon, you'd spend closer to $400 making today's Woot deal all the more attractive. Other refurb stores like BackMarket have phones in "very good" condition for around the same price, too.

Introduced in 2018, the iPhone XS features a 5.8-inch OLED edge-to-edge display with Face ID, a stainless steel and glass construction, and A12 Bionic processor. It has a dual rear camera set up for Portrait Mode photography and TrueDepth front-facing camera and sensor array for Portrait selfies and Animoji, too. We put both sizes of the iPhone XS through their paces in our detailed iPhone XS review and praised both phones' speedy performance.

The fully-unlocked devices available via Woot will work with all major U.S. GSM and CDMA networks. They may come in generic packaging and do not include earbuds, so it may be worth picking up some affordable headphones with the money you save. While these refurbished options from Woot aren't for everyone, the prices make them worth serious consideration. If your teen is asking for a phone, but you don't want to drop a ton of money for a recent model, this is one way to do it.

Woot normally charges $6 for shipping, though you can skip the shipping charge and have your order shipped for free when you link your Amazon Prime account at Woot before checking out. If you've never been a Prime member before, you can start a free 30-day trial to score free shipping at Woot and Amazon. You'll also gain access to the rest of Prime's perks, from the Prime Video streaming service to exclusive members-only discounts and more.

What you need to know

• Apple leaker Mr. White has released images of a supposed iPhone X prototype.
• The prototype shows that Apple had considered releasing the phone in Jet Black.

Apple both introduced and ended the Jet Black iPhone with the iPhone 7, but it appears that the company at least considered continuing the color with the iPhone X.

Prolific Apple leaker Mr. White posted a series of images on Friday showing off what the account claims to be a genuine iPhone X prototype. The images, which compare the prototype to the Space Gray iPhone X that was released, show that Apple had tested out the new iPhone with the Jet Black color that it had released for the iPhone 7.

The Jet Black color of the iPhone was a short-lived shade, as it was both introduced and ended with the iPhone 7. While the color was very popular and a hit with a subset of iPhone customers, it might have also taken the trophy as the biggest fingerprint magnet of any Apple product ever invented. Without a case, the phone quickly lost its glimmering shine. A clear iPhone case was truly the only way to keep it looking as intended.

Since Jet Black, Apple has introduced a ton of colors into the iPhone lineup, especially once they launched the Pro series of iPhones. The latest iPhone lineup offers the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini in White, Black, Blue, Green, and (PRODUCT)RED. The iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max come in Graphite, Silver, Gold, and Pacific Blue.

Getting your hands on an iPhone doesn't have to come at such a high price. If you want to save some cash on the purchase, buying refurbished is usually a great way to spend less on your next device.

Thanks to a sale at Woot, the price on refurbished iPhone XR devices is dropping even lower. Right now you can pick up the refurbished iPhone XR on sale for $329.99. The models on sale at Woot are 'Grade A' refurbs meaning they'll show only minimal cosmetic wear and have been tested to ensure they work like new.

$899.99 $1299.00 Save $399 1623157769

Having now been replaced by the 24-inch M1 iMac, Apple's 21.5-inch iMac has been discontinued. That means big savings at third-party retailers including at Amazon where it's discounted by $399.

Prices Vary 1622214797

This sale includes iPhone models, the Apple Watch, iMac and iPad devices, Beats headphones, Apple services, and more. The deals vary by product, so be sure to check them all out now.

$103.99 $129.99 Save $26 1621604395

Change how you use your iPad with the Apple Pencil. This stylus lets you use your iPad as a notepad, a canvas, or a drawing board for all of your ideas. Today's deal saves you 20% instantly at Verizon.

$599.99 $699.00 Save $99 1621519150

Updated in late 2020, the Mac Mini has Apple's M1 chip that combines CPU, GPU, and machine learning for faster performance, better graphics, and an all around streamlined device. This version has 8GB RAM and a 256GB solid state drive.

From $329 1621244196

Apple Watch Series 6 models are available for some of their best prices ever right now. The lowest price is on the red 40mm version which is $70 off with 44mm and cellular models seeing discounts of up to $91.

Though the iPhone XR originally debuted as a more affordable iPhone at a regular price of $750, it has since dropped in price to $499 when purchased brand new. Today's deal saves you an additional $170 off that cost, making this one of the best iPhone deals around right now. BackMarket has similarly priced refurbished iPhone XR models in 'very good' condition there.

The refurbished models of the iPhone XR on sale today at Woot feature a 6.1-inch display and Apple's A12 Bionic 2.49 GHz 8-core processor, along with 3GB RAM and 64GB storage. You also get Apple's Face ID security tech, wireless charging, and a water-resistant design.

Today's low price of $330 is part of a one-day sale at Woot, so you'll want to place your order soon. Shipping at Woot is generally $6 per order, though you can score free shipping by logging in with an Amazon Prime account before checking out. If you're not a Prime member already, consider starting a free 30-day trial to score free shipping at Woot and Amazon, exclusive members-only discounts, and more.

Getting your hands on an iPhone doesn't have to come at such a high price. If you want to save some cash on the purchase, buying refurbished is usually a great way to spend less on your next device. Thanks to a one-day sale at Woot, the price on refurbished iPhone XR and iPhone XS devices is dropping even lower.

Right now you can pick up the refurbished iPhone models on sale for as little as $379.99. The phones are offered unlocked and though they may show some cosmetic imperfections, they have been tested to ensure they work like new and come with a 90-day warranty.

$899.99 $1299.00 Save $399 1623157769

Having now been replaced by the 24-inch M1 iMac, Apple's 21.5-inch iMac has been discontinued. That means big savings at third-party retailers including at Amazon where it's discounted by $399.

Prices Vary 1622214797

This sale includes iPhone models, the Apple Watch, iMac and iPad devices, Beats headphones, Apple services, and more. The deals vary by product, so be sure to check them all out now.

$103.99 $129.99 Save $26 1621604395

Change how you use your iPad with the Apple Pencil. This stylus lets you use your iPad as a notepad, a canvas, or a drawing board for all of your ideas. Today's deal saves you 20% instantly at Verizon.

$599.99 $699.00 Save $99 1621519150

Updated in late 2020, the Mac Mini has Apple's M1 chip that combines CPU, GPU, and machine learning for faster performance, better graphics, and an all around streamlined device. This version has 8GB RAM and a 256GB solid state drive.

From $329 1621244196

Apple Watch Series 6 models are available for some of their best prices ever right now. The lowest price is on the red 40mm version which is $70 off with 44mm and cellular models seeing discounts of up to $91.

Though the iPhone XR originally debuted in 2018 as a more affordable iPhone at a regular price of $750, it has since dropped in price to $499 when purchased brand new. It features a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display, Face ID, and Apple's A12 Bionic processor.

Today's deal is for the larger capacity 128GB and 256GB models so you're saving even more compared to their higher retail prices. Amazon currently has the equivalent refurbished iPhone XR devices from $400 via third-party sellers and you'd pay similar prices for potentially worse condition devices at other places like Back Market.

If you want the top-spec phone in the sale, opt for the iPhone XS or iPhone XS Max from $379.99. Also introduced in 2018, the iPhone XS features an OLED edge-to-edge display with Face ID, stainless steel and glass construction, and A12 Bionic processor. It has a dual rear camera set up for Portrait Mode photography and TrueDepth front-facing camera and sensor array for Portrait selfies and Animoji, too.

Shipping at Woot is generally $6 per order, though you can score free shipping by logging in with an Amazon Prime account before checking out. If you're not a Prime member already, consider starting a free 30-day trial to score free shipping at Woot and Amazon, exclusive members-only discounts, and more.

At the end of every iPhone event Apple ever holds, they usually throw up a quick graphic showing the entire iPhone lineup they currently sell. When they announced the iPhone 12 models and the iPhone 12 Pro models this fall, and it came time to throw up the graphic, I was surprised to see one iPhone in particular on the list — the iPhone XR.

With an impressive seven models of iPhone currently available, there's never been a better time to shop for any iPhone if you have a certain budget in mind. The options for best cheap iPhone are looking pretty good these days, and even though the iPhone XR only starts at $499, I'm not sure it's really worth the money anymore.

The iPhone SE is cheaper and faster

The iPhone XR came out in 2018, and by no means is it a bad phone. We reviewed the iPhone XR and loved it — however, the iPhone SE changed the game.

The second-generation iPhone SE came out earlier this year, and it delivered on everything it promised it would. It's small, powerful, and in the context of iPhones, cheap. It starts at $399 and is the cheapest brand new iPhone you can buy, but more importantly, it delivers incredible value.

At its core, Apple's A13 Bionic chip powers the small yet mighty iPhone SE, which was Apple's best mobile processor at its launch. It's more powerful and faster than the A12 Bionic chip that sits at the heart of the iPhone XR, which means you're going to get more out of it. If you pitted the iPhone XR against the iPhone SE right now to a speed test, the average person might not see much of a difference, but the iPhone SE will age better over time.

Many budget-conscious iPhone users don't buy a new iPhone every year — like the tech-obsessed people might — but would rather wait perhaps 3-5 years before replacing their phone. If that sounds like you, the iPhone SE should be right up your alley. If you look long term, the iPhone SE will receive updates longer and perform better with age.

It's not just the chip that makes the iPhone SE a better buy; there are some improvements the iPhone SE has over the iPhone XR that may not be apparent right away. Take a closer look, and you'll see a few small ways that the iPhone SE beats out the iPhone XR.

If storage space is ever a concern for you, the iPhone SE offers more of it. The iPhone XR only comes with either 64GB or 128GB, there's no other option. However, the iPhone SE goes up to 256GB of storage. Here's the kicker, the 128GB iPhone XR and 256GB iPhone SE are the same price! Both come in at $549, which seems insane when the iPhone SE doubles the iPhone XR storage.

What about photos? The iPhone XR and iPhone SE do have the same single 12MP wide camera with a ƒ/1.8 aperture. It's the standard camera that comes on all iPhones currently, and it's nothing fancy. To most people, the same photo taken by the iPhone XR will likely look almost the same as one taken on the iPhone SE. But thanks to the A13 Bionic, the iPhone SE handles HDR a little better. It might not be the biggest or most noticeable difference, but if you really want the cheapest iPhone with the best camera, the iPhone SE wins this round again.

The iPhone XR must have something going for it, right?

Face ID. The biggest thing that iPhone XR has going for it is that it has a newer design. This means much thinner bezels, a larger screen, no Home button, and of course, the notch that houses the TrueDepth camera at the top of the screen.

Face ID is great, and obviously, Apple thinks so too since it's stuck around since its inception. However, Touch ID is still as useful and convenient as it ever was. Plus, if you're looking at buying a new budget iPhone right now, chances are you are upgrading from an older generation or are brand new to the iPhone, which means you already don't have Face ID. If you've been living without Face ID up until now, you can certainly live without it going forward.

The other improvement that the iPhone XR can boast about is that it has a bigger battery than the smaller iPhone SE. Apple states that the iPhone XR should get about 16 hours of video playback, while the iPhone SE is only said to get about 13 hours. Your mileage will vary on this based on your usage, what version of iOS you're running, and a few other factors. However, on average, it's likely that the iPhone XR will hold out a little longer between charges.

Between the iPhone SE and iPhone 11, the iPhone XR is rendered obsolete

When it comes to buying an iPhone on a budget, it's been a while since we had so many great options, but it's hard to justify getting an iPhone XR based on where it sits in the lineup. Nestled between the iPhone SE and the iPhone 11, the iPhone XR offers less power and fewer storage options than both of the other models.

At the end of the day, the iPhone XR is the cheapest way to get an iPhone with Face ID and the newer form factor. If spending the least amount of money and having Face ID is important to you, then that's still your best bet.

It all comes down to what $100 means to you. You can save yourself $100 by going with the cheaper iPhone SE, and you're still going to get an iPhone that packs more power even though it bears the older design. Alternatively, you can choose to spend $100 more to get the iPhone 11, which on top of more power, offers everything the iPhone XR does and then some.

First introduced in September 2018, the iPhone Xs and iPhone Xs Max came and went within a year, only to be replaced by the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max, respectively. Finding a new iPhone Xs/Xs Max on the market in late 2020 is next to impossible. Because of this, we recommend getting the iPhone 11 Pro or iPhone 11 Pro Max instead. These phones are also retired but only left the market in October 2020, meaning these are much easier to find.

Only if you find a great discount

However, you should only purchase an iPhone 11 Pro/Pro Max if you can find one at an incredible discount. The reason? There are now seven active iPhones on the market ranging in price from $399 for the least expensive iPhone SE (2020) to $1,099 for the entry-level iPhone 12 Pro Max. Because of this broad price range, you're likely to find one to fit your budget.

Why the iPhone 11 Pro?

It wasn't that long ago when the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max were the best iPhones you could buy. The introduction of the iPhone 12 series changed this, of course. However, if you're willing to give up the small number of bells and whistles exclusive to that series for the sake of saving some cash, go with the iPhone 11 Pro series.

Among the highly popular features found on the iPhone 11 Pro are Face ID, a Super Retina XDR display, up to 1TB of storage, three back cameras, including ultra-wide, wide, and telephoto, and more.

Therefore, if you're looking for Black Friday iPhone deals, the iPhone 11 Pro could prove to be an excellent candidate.

Should anyone buy an iPhone Xs?

New iPhone Xs units are difficult, if not impossible, to find at the normal locations, such as Amazon, Best Buy, or Walmart. But if you don't mind a pre-owned, refurbished iPhone and don't care about having the most recent phone either, definitely check out Amazon.

Don't wait for Black Friday

You don't need to wait around to find great Black Friday iPhone deals. Discounts for Black Friday are already showing up at certain retailers, including some other Black Friday Apple deals. If you find a great deal now, go for it and enjoy the iPhone you ultimately select!

Be sure to check out the rest of the Black Friday deals that are incoming.

I've been writing about phones for over a decade at this point, and for a long portion of that time I strived to have the latest and greatest. A few years ago that itch started dying down, and I preferred having nicer things in my house than a newer phone in my pocket, and that has caused me to "upgrade" to an iPhone Xs now that the iPhone 12 is official.

It sounds crazy on the surface, I realize that, but to say 2020 has been a crazy year would be an understatement. While I am extremely lucky that my job remained unscathed by everything going on, I know plenty of people who have been affected by everything going on, and it's made me want to be a bit smarter with my money. For a while I had been using an iPhone XR and briefly checked out the iPhone 11 as part of a review, but I've always longed for the smaller phones and both of these just ended up feeling too big for my daily use.

The iPhone SE 2020 is a great size for me, personally, but I tried using one and ended up missing FaceID and the bigger display size, so it went back. Now, when Apple took the stage for the iPhone 12 launch, I was left with a tough choice. Did I keep my current phone, upgrade to an iPhone 12, which I knew would be too big, or try for the iPhone 12 mini, which I feared would seem too small for me. I took some time to think about it, and even weighed the option of getting an iPhone 11 Pro, but ultimately ended up going for an iPhone Xs because Back Market's Black Friday deals ultimately just made it the smartest choice.

Why an iPhone XS in 2020?

In all honesty, it was a combination of the size and price. For the past few years, Apple has been releasing extremely powerful devices and working really hard to keep older iPhone models supported with new operating systems, and this combination means that older devices last much longer than you'd expect. When breaking down my actual phone usage these days, I realized most of it is spent doing silly things like scrolling social networks or browsing the internet. I am one of those whom still prefer to get out my real digital camera when I want to capture great pictures, so the older camera tech wasn't a concern to me.

I knew that with the iPhone XS I could very easily get a few years out of the phone without even a single worry about performance or it not being supported any longer. When I combined that with the price of the device, it made a whole lot of sense for me to pick one up as my next phone.

But Apple doesn't sell the iPhone XS anymore

That's true, Apple no longer sells the iPhone XS as a new phone anymore, but that wasn't a concern to me. I've covered Back Market before and have since become a big fan of what the company is doing. One of the reasons many people stay away from buying refurbished phones and older devices is a worry that they have no warranty, but that wasn't even something that crossed my mind since Back Market offers a one-year warranty on any device purchsaed from it.

I wanted it to look and feel like I got a new phone, not that I had a refurbished one so I sprung for the Mint Condition version of the iPhone XS, which wasn't much more than the other variants at the time. When it arrived it looked brand new, not a scratch to be seen on the whole phone, and the only difference was really the box that it shipped in.

I don't regret not getting the latest

I've had the iPhone XS in hand for a little bit now, and I've done some comparisons with my wife's iPhone 11 and my son's iPhone SE 2020, and honestly I don't think I made the wrong choice at all. The phone is everything that I wanted: it's still fast, a great size, has two cameras, and will be supported for years to come. And best of all, it didn't break the bank. It's easy to long for the latest and the greatest, and we often get caught up in the need to have the "best," but in reality sometimes you don't really need that and something a little bit older, and cheaper, can do just as great of a job.

After updating to iOS 14 I got all the latest and greatest features of the platform without the newest phone. It works as I hoped it would, and I don't need to baby it like I would a new phone normally. Another small benefit I've grown to realize is that accessories are also cheaper. Since most people have upgraded beyond the X line, acceessories like cases and stuff are super cheap now, and Apple even still makes new versions should you wish to buy it new.

Maybe refurbished is right for you

Buying a new phone for yourself doesn't always mean buying the top of the line device. It's time to rethink your needs, see what you actually want in a device, and consider buying a refurb instead of going new. With its great pricing and amazing warranty and support, Back Market is a great place to consider when hunting a new to you phone.

On previous versions of the iPhone, you could go to Settings > Battery and toggle on Battery Percentage to see exactly how much power you had left. On iPhone X and newer models (besides the new iPhone SE), no such toggle exists, And that means there's no way to look up at the battery icon in the right "horn" of the display and see just what percentage of power remains.

Or is there?

How do you get Battery Percentage on your iPhone?

Even though there's no Battery Percentage toggle to turn on in Settings, there's still a way to see the battery percentage on any iPhone:

1. Touch your finger to the top right "horn" where the battery icon is.
2. Swipe down to pull down Control Center.
3. Check out the battery percentage at the top right.

1. Swipe up again to dismiss Control Center.

Yes, it's totally not the same as always on, always glanceable Battery Percentage on every screen, but it is just a swipe away. Any time you want to see Battery Percentage, repeat the Control Center process.

Or, you can add a widget on the Today View screen

1. From your Home Screen, swipe right to access Today View.
2. Tap the Edit button.
3. Swipe up until you reach Batteries.

1. Tap Batteries.
2. Tap Done.
3. Observe your Battery Percentage in your new widget on the Today View screen.

But what about Battery Percentage on the main screens?

You can argue the "horn" design of the iPhone doesn't leave enough space for an always-on Battery Percentage indicator. You can argue that Battery Percentage indicators can't predict the massive ups and downs of battery drain when you start using apps like Snapchat and Pokémon Go, or Photos start syncing in the background.

You could argue all of that and more, but people are used to having Battery Percentage indicators, at least optionally, on iPhone. And when you take away our safety blankets, we suddenly don't feel safe.

Personally, I'm over the lack of Battery Percentage on the main display. And I'm used to flicking down Control Center or over to Today View when I want to see it.

But I still miss it not being always immediately glanceable in the top right corner. At least as an option. Many of us are going to appreciate the new widgets coming in iOS 14. The battery percentage is back on the home screen, bigger and better than ever if you want it.

How to add The Batteries Widget on the Home Screen in iOS 14

Once iOS 14 is released, you'll be able to pick a widget for any of your main screens that display your battery percentage all the time. You'll have that "glanceability" back if you're willing to give up some screen real estate for it.

Apple occasionally offers updates to iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS, and macOS as closed developer previews or public betas. While the betas contain new features, they also contain pre-release bugs that can prevent the normal use of your iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV, or Mac, and are not intended for everyday use on a primary device. That's why we strongly recommend staying away from developer previews unless you need them for software development, and using the public betas with caution. If you depend on your devices, wait for the final release.

1. Tap and hold anywhere on your Home Screen until the apps start wiggling.
2. Tap the plus button in the top left corner of your screen.
3. Scroll up until you find the Batteries icon.

1. Tap the Batteries icon.
2. Swipe to find the Widget you want.
3. Tap Add Widget when you decide on one.

1. Arrange your home screen as desired.
2. Tap Done in the top right corner
3. Observe your new Batteries Widget. Bonus: the widget contains battery information for up to three additional connected devices!

Questions?

Let us know in the comments!

What you need to know

• An iPhone X has survived six days at the bottom of the sea.
• Ben Schofield dropped his phone overboard whilst working as a deckhand on a museum ship.
• The phone spent 6 days at a depth of 50 feet but was found working once the tide receded a week later.

A museum ship deckhand has recovered his working iPhone X six days after he dropped it into the sea.

As The Independent reports:

One of Ben's friends tried to find the phone by diving into the harbor, but failed to recover the device. In the end, Ben had to wait for low tide nearly a week later. When the waters receded, he found the iPhone X caked in mud. You can imagine his surprise when it started vibrating, and that it still had 3% battery. Ben says he cleaned up the phone, got rid of the sand and grit from the charging port then let the phone dry. Even Apple was flabbergasted, and by their reckoning, the sand at the bottom of the harbor may well have filled the charging port, protecting the phone from water damage.

The iPhone X's IP67 waterproof rating is only supposed to protect the phone in water up to a depth of one meter for up to 30 minutes. Turns out, 6 days at the bottom of the sea may also be a viable measure.

Woot has several refurbished iPhone models on sale today with prices starting at just $149.99. These phones may have some signs of cosmetic wear, but have been tested to ensure they are in full working condition and come with a 90-day Woot warranty. Put your Amazon Prime membership to good use and avoid Woot's $6 shipping fee. Most of the phones on sale are fully unlocked to work with any carrier, though a few specific models are set to work only with AT&T or T-Mobile and subsidiary carriers, so be sure to check carefully before placing your order.

$899.99 $1299.00 Save $399 1623157769

Having now been replaced by the 24-inch M1 iMac, Apple's 21.5-inch iMac has been discontinued. That means big savings at third-party retailers including at Amazon where it's discounted by $399.

Prices Vary 1622214797

This sale includes iPhone models, the Apple Watch, iMac and iPad devices, Beats headphones, Apple services, and more. The deals vary by product, so be sure to check them all out now.

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Change how you use your iPad with the Apple Pencil. This stylus lets you use your iPad as a notepad, a canvas, or a drawing board for all of your ideas. Today's deal saves you 20% instantly at Verizon.

$599.99 $699.00 Save $99 1621519150

Updated in late 2020, the Mac Mini has Apple's M1 chip that combines CPU, GPU, and machine learning for faster performance, better graphics, and an all around streamlined device. This version has 8GB RAM and a 256GB solid state drive.

From $329 1621244196

Apple Watch Series 6 models are available for some of their best prices ever right now. The lowest price is on the red 40mm version which is $70 off with 44mm and cellular models seeing discounts of up to $91.

The most affordable option on the sale is the iPhone 7 at $149.99. While it might not be the most current generation iPhone, but it has solid specs for day-to-day use and supports Apple's current iOS 13 software. It has a 4.7-inch Retina display with Touch ID fingerprint sensor and can be used to make contactless payments with Apple Pay. The 5.5-inch Plus version is also on sale for $229.99. There are more up-to-date models in the mix including iPhone 8 and iPhone X that would be wiser investments if you want to hang on to the phone for the longer-term as they are more likely to get future software updates.

If you want the top-spec phone in the sale, opt for the iPhone XS from $479.99. Introduced in 2018, the iPhone XS features an OLED edge-to-edge display with Face ID, stainless steel and glass construction, and A12 Bionic processor. It has a dual rear camera set up for Portrait Mode photography and TrueDepth front-facing camera and sensor array for Portrait selfies and Animoji, too. We put the iPhone XS through its paces and praised improved camera and speedy performance.

The deals are good for today only or while supplies last, so be sure to act fast to avoid missing out on the phone you want. The iPhone 11 Pro sold out after just a few hours, so don't let that happen to the handset you want. Be sure to check out all the other great iPhone deals now.

If you're in the market for a new iPhone, checking the prices at Apple's site might not fill you with joy. While the iPhone SE offers an affordable option, it doesn't have all of the features of its edge-to-edge counterparts.

Thankfully, this limited-time sale at Woot offers the recent iPhone XS Max from just $699.99. Unlike a lot of Woot deals, these devices are offered brand new with a 1-year Apple warranty so the only thing you're missing out on is paying full price. Considering today's prices at Woot are as much as $200 less than a refurbished model at Apple, it would be wise not to pass on these iPhone deals.

Introduced in 2018, the iPhone XS Max features a 6.5-inch Super Retina edge-to-edge OLED display with Face ID, stainless steel and glass construction, and A12 Bionic processor. It has a dual rear camera set up for Portrait Mode photography and TrueDepth front-facing camera and sensor array for Portrait selfies and Animoji, too. We put the iPhone XS Max through its paces and praised improved camera and speedy performance.

You can choose from 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB capacities with space gray, gold, and silver colors on offer. The deals are good for today only or while supplies last, so be sure to act fast to avoid missing out on the phone you want.

Woot charges $6 per order for shipping, though you can snag free shipping there by logging in with an Amazon Prime account before checking out. If you've never been a Prime member before, you can start a free 30-day trial to score free shipping at Woot and Amzon, along with access to all of Prime's perks like the Prime Video streaming service, exclusive members-only discounts, and more.

What you need to know

• Apple's iPhone XR is now available refurbished.
• It comes "like-new" with a one-year warranty.
• You can save up to $120 on the current price of the iPhone XR.

Apple's iPhone XR is now available from Apple's refurbished store, with prices starting at $499 for the 64GB model.

As reported by MacRumors:

Colors and storage are not comprehensive, you can only buy the 64GB in black or yellow currently, the 128GB is available in white, yellow, coral, or black, and the 256GB model is only available in black. All refurbished iPhones come "like-new" with a limited one-year warranty. According to Apple's refurbished website:

Savings range between $100 and $120 on the current price of the XR depending on which iPhone you buy, and around $250 saving on the launch price of each respective model. This is the only way to buy a 256GB model of the iPhone XR, Apple currently only sells 64GB and the 128GB version as new. Sadly, neither the blue or the (PRODUCT)RED version of the XR are currently available refurbished.

The large-capacity version of the iPhone XR offers 128GB of storage, which is nice and roomy for most folks. This is more than enough space to take hundreds, thousands even, of high-quality photos and videos. If you like to download tons of music or movies, these will also require a lot of storage capacity. For example, I like to keep a couple of movies downloaded to my phone in case I need a quick way to distract my kids, even in low signal situations.

Granted, storing these items on the cloud and streaming all your media is a great way to free up phone storage, but if you're ever in a situation where you have bad signal or limited data, you may find yourself wishing for more storage space. 128 GB will definitely be necessary if you need to take 4K videos and store them for any amount of time on your phone. At the end of the day, ample storage capacity on your iPhone is just more convenient. You never know when you might need it.

Now, for those of you that live in the cloud, a tidy 64GB just might do the trick. If your photos and videos are immediately uploaded and offloaded from your phone, and you prefer streaming to downloading, then you might not need so much space.

Keep in mind, streaming may be challenging in low-signal or low-data situations; but if you rarely venture outside of cell reception and have lots of data to play with, then streaming all of your music and movies might not be a problem. The same goes for taking videos and photos. If you're not very shutter-happy and prefer to offload heavy videos and photos as soon as you take them, then you shouldn't have a problem. There are plenty of people who can maintain low storage usage, and if you are one of those, go for the 64GB iPhone XR.

To simplify a very complex process; Face ID captures your facial structure and uses it to identify you and then unlock your iPhone. It also learns the ways in which your face changes over time and throughout the day. If, for example, your eyes are really puffy in the morning, Face ID learns that its still you, but with a slight change in your "expression." Apple analyst Rene Ritchie explained how Face ID uses machine learning to recognize minor changes to your face.

Everything you need to know about Face ID

What this means is, even if you're making a "scrunched up" face (say, because you're looking directly into sunlight), Face ID can be trained to recognize it as still your face, even if it didn't work the first time.

Why would you want Face ID to learn to recognize variations in your expression? Well, Peter Broqvist on Twitter noted that it can also work when you are resting your chin on your hand, which is something a lot of us do while sitting at our desk. It's also useful if you work outdoors and tend to squint your eyes from the sun a lot. If you're lying in bed on your pillow and it's fluffy enough to obscure your cheeks a little, or if you're wearing a big winter hat, you can train it to understand that it's still your face. You can even train it to recognize your face while you're brushing your teeth. If at first, it doesn't work, you can train Face ID to accept the subtle change in your face that you might use a lot of the time.

How to train Face ID to recognize different facial expressions

1. Raise your iPhone to unlock it with Face ID using a particular expression, like resting your chin on your hand or squinting into the sun (or sticking out your tongue).
2. If Face ID fails to unlock your iPhone, swipe up from the bottom of the locked screen.
3. Face ID will try again after you swipe up. If it fails again, enter your passcode.
4. Lock your iPhone.
5. Use the same facial expression to unlock Face ID again.

Face ID will "remember" this expression and successfully work from now on, even if days have passed since you last used this expression to unlock your iPhone.

Certain facial changes still won't work

Though you can train Face ID to learn subtle changes to your face, it's still not going to work when you're covering large areas of your face. For example, you can't train it to recognize your face while you're wearing a scarf that covers your entire mouth. You can't train it to recognize you while your eyes are closed (though you can train it to recognize you while one eye is closed). You can't cover your nose with your hand and convince Face ID that it really is you.

When it comes to squinting into the sun, Face ID will still have a hard time if your eyes are nearly closed (unless you disable Require Attention for Face ID). Don't expect it to perform the impossible.

For the most part, you don't have to do anything in order for Face ID to learn your changing expressions. But if you want it to recognize a particularly awkward expression, you can force it to learn by following the steps above.

Your thoughts?

What do you think about teaching Face ID to recognize "weird" or different facial expressions? Do you see this as beneficial to your typical facial routines?

You've picked out the iPhone XS Max, which is still a great phone (despite being previous-gen) with a big beautiful screen that you will no doubt want to protect. However, before you unbox that beauty, you'll want to make sure you have a case in hand. Here, we've rounded up the best of the cases available for this big beauty of a phone.

Find the perfect case for your iPhone XS Max

You don't want that gorgeous and expensive new phone to go unprotected, even for a minute. Pick up one of these cases and keep that iPhone XS Max pristine with options like the Torras Thin Case. It's both protective and minimal, adding little to no bulk to your iPhone XS Max which is terrific considering it's already the biggest iPhone yet.

If you wanted something even more rugged, the tried and true OtterBox SYMMETRY SERIES is designed to keep your iPhone protected and secure. The cases come in a variety of designs, colours, patterns. Plus, the Symmetry Series offers heavy-duty protection without the bulk of the Defender Series, and it is relatively easy to care for and maintain. And if you change cases often, then it's pretty easy to remove too.

Who doesn't love getting a brand new gorgeous case for their iPhone, especially when it's a pricey iPhone XS? Even though it's a few years old in the market, the iPhone XS is still a great phone to have and gets the job done. A case makes a phone seem even more special and remain in good shape over time. When it comes to getting the best protection for your iPhone XS, these are our go-to choices.

Guardians of the Apple

A great case should not only protect your iPhone XS, but it should complement how you use your phone. That way, you get the most enjoyment out of it, and I can't imagine any better case than the Lanhiem iPhone XS Case. Despite its focus on protection, the Lanhiem case doesn't interfere with regular phone operations to any significant degree.

If you don't want to add any noticeable chunk to your phone but keep it protected, then the TORRAS Slim Fit iPhone XS Case is a perfect fit, literally. The case's primary material is matt, with a silky, soft to touch finish which feels absolutely great every time you hold your phone.

You can still show off the beauty of your glasshouse without sacrificing protection using the Spigen Hybrid Clear Case. The case combines a hybrid rigid back cover, flexible bumper, and Air Cushion Technology to give your a clear protective case that feels great and is comfortable to hold.

What you need to know

• The iPhone XR was the number one smartphone in 2019.
• That's according to research from Omdia, which says it shipped 46.3M units in 2019.
• Apple also took the number two spot thanks to the iPhone 11.

A report from Omdia claims that the iPhone XR was the number one smartphone in 2019, shipping over 46.3 million units.

As reported by 9to5Mac, Omdia's Smartphone Model Market Tracker report suggests that Apple shipped 46.3 million iPhone XR units in 2019, making it the most popular smartphone in the world. In second place was Apple's iPhone 11, which shipped 37.3 million units. Samsung's Galaxy A10 was the closest competitor with 30.3 million shipments.

Of course, shipments and sales are not the same things, however, shipment figures are still a good indicator of general market trends.

In a press release Omdia stated:

The iPhone XR was actually more popular in 2019 than it was in its release year, this, of course, can be explained in part due to the fact that it was only released late in 2018, and in part due to its price drop following the release of Apple's iPhone 11 range last year.

Apple is pegged to release a new budget iPhone early this year. The so-called iPhone SE 2 which looks more like an iPhone 8 (inside and out), is tipped to have a $399 starting price.

There are a lot of different types of smartphone buyers out there. You got Person A who spends as much money as possible on the most recent generation and biggest version. Then you've got Person B who does the exact opposite, spending as little as possible and settling for stuff they get for free. Then there's the normal person, the You person, the person who's willing to spend some money but wants the best value possible. I fall in that category, and if you're like me, then you should look at Sprint right now. You can get the iPhone XR 64GB smartphone for just $15 a month for 18 months.

If you want an even more budget option, you can get the iPhone 6s for $99.99 on a Sprint unlimited plan.

The Flex Lease is an 18-month lease. After that time is up, you can return the phone and upgrade to a new model or buy the rest of the price of the phone. If you choose to buy out the phone instead of upgrading to whatever new iPhone is out at the time, you can either pay off the rest in one lump sum or choose a six-month payment plan. Sprint also has the iPhone Forever plan where you can upgrade to the newest iPhone any time after 12 lease payments.

Once you're signed up, you will get a $10 promo credit applied to every monthly bill, knocking the price down from $25 to $15. The default starts you with the 64GB version. It looks like you can upgrade to the 256GB version for the same price if you want, but if you go with the 128GB version you'll have to pay $50 upfront. You have all six color options to choose from, but those options vary at the larger sizes, with the 128GB version only available in Black and the 256GB only available in Yellow or Coral.

Check out our review of the iPhone XR where we gave it 4.5 stars out of 5. Rene Ritchie said "It has almost everything you'd want in a flagship phone for 2018, minus the price tag that's typically coming with them these days." Thank goodness you don't have to worry about that. He added, "thanks to Apple's top-of-the-line hardware engineering and the headroom afforded by A12 Bionic, it'll last you or anyone you sell or hand it down to a good long while to come, maybe as long as a couple of phones that are half the price."

What you need to know

• Apple has begun selling the iPhone XS and iPhone Max refurbished.
• The phones are currently available on Apple's refurbished section of the Apple Store website.
• You can grab savings of $200 to $250 off the current selling price a brand new phone.

Today, Apple has begun selling refurbished models of the iPhone XS and the iPhone XS Max on the refurbished section of the Apple Store website. This is the first time that the website has seen refurbished models of the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max available since the phones originally launched in September of 2018.

You can currently find the iPhone XS in all three colors: Space Gray, Silver, and Gold. The Space Gray and Silver are both available in all three size configurations: 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB. The Gold model is currently only available in 64GB and 256GB. The price ranges from $699 for the 64GB to $999 for the 512GB and all of the phones are unlocked.

The iPhone XS Max is currently only available in Silver and Gold, but each color is available in all storage sizes. The iPhone XS Max starts at $799 for the 64GB to $1099 for the 512GB, and all of the phones are unlocked. That means that you are grabbing a savings of anywhere from $200 to $250 off the current price from a new base model iPhone XS to the top-end iPhone XS Max.

• iPhone XS - 64GB in Space Gray, Silver, and Gold: $699 (Save $200)
• iPhone XS - 256GB in Space Gray, Silver, and Gold: $829 (Save $220)
• iPhone XS - 512GB in Space Gray, Silver: $999 (Save $250)
• iPhone XS Max - 64GB in Silver, Gold: $799 (Save $200)
• iPhone XS Max - 256GB in Silver, Gold: $929 (Save $220)
• iPhone XS Max - 512GB in Silver, Gold: $1,099 (Save $250)

Apple says that all of the phones include a one year warranty, all manuals and accessories, a new battery and outer shell, and a new box. The phones all go through "full functional testing, genuine Apple part replacements (if necessary), and a thorough cleaning". All refurbished iPhones are also eligible for AppleCare if you want your iPhone to be protected from accidental damage protection for two years.

What you need to know

• Some iPhone XR users can't get a signal on UK carrier O2.
• The issue appears to have been created by a software update.
• Apple says a fix is incoming.

Apple and UK carrier O2 have confirmed that some iPhone XR users are currently unable to get a signal. But interestingly, the issue only appears to impact those with iPhone XR.

The issue prevents users from making or receiving calls, while 4G data connectivity is also impacted according to the BBC.

Apple has also said that there is a known issue and that a fix is being worked on. Unfortunately, the company isn't saying when that fix will arrive.

The suspicion is that the issue was introduced via a recent software update – presumably iOS 13.3. O2 is also reportedly saying the same to customers, although it is yet to throw Apple under the bus publicly.

Apple currently has iOS 13.3.1 available in beta form but it's unclear whether that update will be rushed through to provide the fix O2 customers are so desperate for.

What you need to know

• Photographer John Kraus took a photo of a rocket using his iPhone XS Max.
• The rocket was a SpaceX CRS-19.
• The photo looks better than a phone has any right to produce.

In the tech world we're all guilty of chasing the latest, hottest, flashiest, and fastest thing. This year that's iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max. But that's unfair to iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max. Until 2019, they were the best iPhones ever made. And photographer John Kraus has reminded us (via 512Pixels) just how good their cameras are, too.

Kraus took his iPhone XS Max and placed it near the launch site of SpaceX's CRS-19 rocket. The result is a shot that looks highly impressive and reminds us once again that perhaps we don't really need the latest iPhone in order to take some amazing shots.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5u-ardppjQ/

Now admittedly this isn't going to make me trade my iPhone 11 Pro in for a used iPhone XS. But if you're still on the fence about upgrading, this might make you think twice. Especially if you've been happy with your iPhone XS and its photography prowess to this point.

Reachability was introduced by Apple introduced back in 2014 with the launch of the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus to aid with the use of those phones with one hand. It lowers the user interface on the phone to make it more easily accessible with one hand. Given that Reachability is invoked with a double-tap on the Home button on older iPhones, many worried that it wouldn't be present on newer models. Thankfully, it's there.

While iPhone models produced later than 2017 do not have a Home button, the phone still features Reachability, though it is turned off by default. You will need to switch it on if you want to be able to access it at any time with one hand. Here's how you enable and use Reachability with newer models.

• How to enable Reachability on iPhones with Face ID
• How to use Reachability on iPhones with Face ID

How to enable Reachability on iPhones with Face ID

Reachability is turned off by default, but you can turn it on in your iPhone's Accessibility settings.

1. Open Settings from your Home screen.
2. Tap Accessibility.

3. Tap Touch
4. Turn the Reachability switch to the On position.That's it! Now it's ready to use.

How to use Reachability on iPhones with Face ID

Once you've got it turned on, a quick swipe activates Reachability.

1. Touch your finger to the gesture area at the bottom of the iPhone display.
2. Swipe down.

Questions

Still having trouble? Let us know in the comments if you have any questions about using Reachability on iPhones with Face ID.

What you need to know

• Apple's iPhones depreciate more slowly than other phones.
• Sony Android phones depreciate particularly badly.
• LG phones don't perform much better.

There has long been a belief that iPhones depciate more slowly than competing flagship products and now new data from SellCell (via Apple Must) backs that up.

That data covers five of the top US smartphone brands and then looks at their flagship devices over the last year or so. It then compares their original selling price to how much they can be traded in for today. The depreciation is then calculated and the table speaks for itself.

Apple's iPhone XS Max sold for $1099 in September of 2018 and can now be traded in for $580. That's a depreciation of 47.2%. But when you compare that with Galaxy Note 9 which sold for $1000 a month earlier, things don't look great for Samsung. It's now worth just $321 which means a depciation of a massive 67.8%.

Sony's XZ2 and XZ2 Premium fare even worse, and LG isn't far behind. If you're buying an Android phone and want it to hold its value you're best looking at the Pixels or the Samsung phones. Google's Pixel 3 line saw its value fall around 69% which is still a lot. But it's also a lot better than most other Android phones.

What you need to know

• YouTuber JerryRigEverything attempted a crazy experiment with a broken iPhone.
• It involved removing the shattered glass back using an industrial laser machine.
• The experiment technically worked, but it's not something normal people will be able to do.

Repairing a shattered iPhone has never been an easy or cheap proposition. That's why cases and AppleCare+ are so popular for iPhone owners. But what if there was a simpler way that didn't break the bank?

YouTuber JerryRigEverything took this simple question and found an answer to it. His focus was on the back glass panel that can cost as much as $600 to fix if you don't have AppleCare+. The reason being that Apple uses adhesive that is permanent. Only extreme temperatures will loosen the adhesive, which is almost impossible to recreate without the proper tools.

He took his shattered iPhone X and put it through a crazy experiment that involved removing the glass back with relative ease. To do so, JerryRigEverything used an "all-in-one, multi-functional laser machine" that burns the adhesive from the outside.

The process is so intense, it also burns through the paint on the glass panel.

The experiment worked, but it didn't accomplished its original goal of making repairing iPhones easy. It's not like normal people have industrial laser machines like the one he uses laying around like spare vacuums.

Additionally, the process was still complicated. The adhesive is burned off, but removing the glass is still difficult because you're removing broken glass—it's still shattered into a million different pieces. Then you run into a problem with the camera cut-out. You'll have to buy a special back glass panel that fits over the camera because it is welded on to the steel frame.

JerryRigEverything's experiment was educational and fun to watch, but we doubt many people will embark on this repair journey. Most people will just find it easier to shell out the bucks to repair the phone without hassle. We'd still recommened grabbing a good case or getting AppleCare+.

Best iPhone 11 cases in 2019

The festive season is in full swing in India, and retailers are getting in on the action. Amazon's Great Indian Festival is now live, offering enticing discounts on hundreds of thousands of products. One of the standout deals on the first day of the sale is the iPhone XR, which is available for just ₹39,999 ($560).

That is the lowest price we've seen for the phone so far, making it a fantastic deal if you're in the market for a new phone. What makes it that much more exciting is that the discount is valid on all color options, including the red model.

The iPhone 11 is now on sale in India, with the phone retailing at ₹64,990 ($915). The phone offers interesting new cameras, but it is nearly twice as costly as the iPhone XR deal.

Available for the iPhone 7 Plus and newer, Portrait mode uses machine learning on your iPhone to shoot images in portrait or landscape orientation with "bokeh"-style blurred backgrounds and foregrounds. While most iPhones that support Portrait mode do so using both (or all three, in case of the iPhone 11 Pro) of their available rear-facing cameras, the iPhone XR, with its single rear camera, relies more on its system-on-a-chip's Neural Engine to create a depth map that can be used to create the Portrait effect.

The iPhone 8 Plus and later also get Portrait Lighting as part of this feature: It uses machine learning and Portrait mode's depth map to intelligently add special lighting to your photos in real-time. Here's how to use it!

• How does Portrait mode work?
• How does Portrait Lighting work?
• How to shoot a person in Portrait mode or Portrait Lighting mode
• How to take photos of other objects and animals in Portrait mode
• How to shoot a great Portrait selfie
• How to remove depth or lighting effects on a photo

How does Portrait mode work?

When you shoot in the Camera app's Portrait mode, you're framing an image as seen by your iPhone's 2x "telephoto" lens. But the wide-angle is also working for you: It automatically measures the difference in distance between what it sees and what the telephoto sees, creating a multi-point depth map.

This depth map is then used to create the most fun part of Portrait mode: artificial depth of field, which blurs both the background and foreground with various "bokeh" effects to create a DSLR-camera-like image. On the 8 Plus and later, you'll also use the depth map for Portrait Lighting (more on that below).

When in Portrait mode, you can only frame with the telephoto lens (there are no zoom options, digital or otherwise), but as of iOS 11, users have most other Camera app features available to them. That includes flash — and the Slow Sync flash feature in the iPhone 8 Plus and later — along with timed photos, filters, and HDR. You can't get Live Photos quite yet, but you can always record your iPhone's screen while in the Camera app if you really want a pseudo-live Portrait photo.

How does Portrait Lighting work?

The iPhone 8 Plus and later support Portrait Lighting: It augments existing Portrait mode features by using the depth map to add different lighting options to your image on the spot or later in post-processing.

In a professional studio, photographers use all sorts of lights when photographing a subject. By altering these lights, an experienced photographer can use the light on or around the subject to emphasize certain areas of the photo. Portrait Lighting allows users to do the same thing, but digitally: You can choose one of five different lighting settings to adjust your iPhone's "virtual" light rig. And as with Apple's other editing features, it's non-destructive: You can add or remove Portrait Lighting at any time.

Note: Portrait Lighting is currently in beta, and may not work properly 100% of the time; luckily, you can easily turn it off from the Editing screen.

There are currently six different types of Portrait lighting, Natural, Studio, Contour, Stage Light, or Stage Light Mono, and High-Key Mono (new in iOS 13).

This is the basic lighting mode that Portrait Mode has always used, which keeps your subject's face in focus and blurs the background for contrast.

Your subject's face will be in focus and brightly light allowing you to see more detail in the face while the background will blur for contrast.

Will cast shadows on your subject's face and surroundings to show a dramatic difference between highlights and lowlights.

Cuts the background of the photo out into a deep black while light on the subject is bright and clear, giving a dramatic, high-contrast photo.

Just like Stage Light, Stage Light Mono will cut the background of the photo away and brightly illuminate your subject; however, it will also apply a monochrome filter with a black and white photo.

Like Stage Light Mono, High-Key Mono cuts the background, brightly illuminates the subject, and applies a monochrome filter. But instead of a black background, it's white. It made its debut in iOS 13.

How to shoot a person in Portrait mode or Portrait Lighting mode

Want to take a photo of someone in Portrait mode? Here's how you go about it.

1. Open the Camera app.
2. Swipe over to the Portrait setting.
3. Line up the shot you wish to take within 2-8 feet of your subject. The camera's face and body detection should automatically identify your subject.
4. Pay attention to the Camera app's prompts (either "More light required," "Flash may help," "Place subject within 8 feet," or "Move farther away.")
5. Once you've met the camera's needs, you'll see the banner at the bottom (iPhone 8 Plus or later) or top (iPhone 7 Plus) turn yellow.Note: You can still shoot with the telephoto lens in Portrait mode even if the banners don't turn yellow — it just means you won't get depth or lighting effects.
6. If you have an iPhone 8 Plus or later, you can swipe or tap on the cube icons above the shutter button to change your lighting effects in real-time.
7. Press the shutter button to take your photo.

How to take photos of other objects and animals in Portrait mode

Shooting other, non-human objects isn't officially supported for Portrait mode on the iPhone XR, but you can still do so if you wish; just be prepared for the artificial depth of field to not look perfect.

1. Line up the shot you wish to take within 8 feet of your subject. Your iPhone will attempt to automatically identify a subject or focal point, but you can also tap on the screen to set a manual focal point.
2. Pay attention to the Camera app's prompts (either "More light required," "Flash may help," "Place subject within 8 feet," or "Move farther away.")

3. Once you've met the camera's needs, you'll see the banner at the bottom (iPhone 8 Plus or later) or top (iPhone 7 Plus) turn yellow.Note: You can still shoot with the telephoto lens in Portrait mode even if the banners don't turn yellow — it just means you won't get depth or lighting effects.
4. Swipe or tap on the cube icons above the shutter button to change your lighting effects.
5. Press the shutter button to take your photo.

How to take great Portrait Lighting selfies with iPhone

I have a certain fondness for selfies — I find they're a great way to snap quick facial expressions if you don't have an emoji, or show off something awesome you found.

Apple is continually making improvements to not only the iPhone's rear cameras, but it's front-facing cameras as well. Thanks to its TrueDepth camera system in the iPhone X and later, which lets you take selfies with actual depth to them simulating the bokeh-style effect of DSLR cameras, your selfies can be better than they've ever been.

How to take great Portrait Lighting selfies with iPhone

How to remove depth or lighting effects on a photo

Stage lighting? Not always such a good call. But taking it away is an easy fix.

If you took a shot in Portrait mode and decide you'd rather not have that bokeh effect or Stage Lighting gracing your image, removing either option is an easy fix. And because Apple operates non-destructively, you can always restore the look later on if you so choose.

Note: Though you shoot both Depth effects and Lighting effects in Portrait mode, they exist independently of each other: You can remove Depth without removing lighting effects, and vice versa.

Note: This feature is available for iPhone 8 Plus and later.

1. Open the Photos app on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Find the Portrait mode photo you want to edit.
3. Tap Edit.

4. Tap on the cube in the bottom center of the screen to bring up the lighting menu.
5. Swipe right on the cubes to return to the Natural Lighting option, or pick an alternate lighting option.
6. Tap Done.

When editing Portrait Mode photos in iOS 13, you can now adjust the intensity of Portrait Lighting effects. Whether you go with natural light or the new High-Key Mono effect, you can weaken or strengthen the intensity to get just the result you're looking for.

1. Open Photos on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Open a Portrait Mode photo.
3. Tap Edit.

4. Select a Portrait Lighting style if you didn't shoot with one originally.
5. Swipe left or right on the adjustment bar to decrease or increase the intensity of the lighting effect. The bar starts at 50 by default.
6. Tap Done.

1. Open Photos from your Dock or Applications folder.
2. Double-click on the photo you want to edit.

3. Click Edit.
4. Click on the Portrait button in the bottom-left corner of the editing screen to disable it. You can also click on the cubes (if available) to adjust lighting effects.
5. Click Done.

Just as you can on iOS, go back in and click the Portrait button again to restore the bokeh effect to the photo.

Looking to remove Depth Effect from your Photos on your iPhone? Here's how!

1. Tap the Photo app.
2. Tap the Portrait Mode image you would like to remove Depth Effect from.

3. Tap Edit in the upper right corner.
4. Tap Portrait at the top of the screen. This will make the Depth Effect disappear. You can tap it again to bring it back.

If you don't want to go through Photos to remove the Depth Effect, or maybe you want to do some other editing while you're messing around with the feature, then you should consider using a third-party app.

Some of the best apps out there to do this include Focos, Slør, Anamorphic, and infltr. In iOS 13, third-party apps that work with Portrait photos should get even better, as developers will be able to create new and more refined Portrait effects in their apps that can better segment features like skin, hair, and even teeth.

Questions about Portrait mode and Portrait Lighting?

Let us know in the comments.

Updated September 2019: Updated with information about iOS 13, iPhone 11, and iPhone 11 Pro.

Serenity Caldwell contributed to an earlier version of this article.

You can choose to either have your new iPhone delivered right to your doorstep, or pick it up at your nearest Apple Store. Each option has benefits and drawbacks. It's up to you what you decide. If you've preordered your iPhone 11 or iPhone 11 Pro and selected in-store pickup, you might be wondering what you can expect at your check-in window. Here's what you can do to prepare.

• Keep an eye on your order status
• Make sure you get your email or text message notification first
• Bring the credit card you purchased, your order confirmation number, and your photo ID
• Get there a few minutes early and check in with an Apple staff member right away
• Have patience
• Walk out happy!

Keep an eye on your order status

When you view your iPhone 11 or iPhone 11 Pro preorder online at Apple.com or on the Apple Store app, you'll see, in bold, what your order status is. If it still shows your iPhone 11 or iPhone 11 Pro as "Order Placed" within the next few days, you might want to talk to an Apple support representative to make sure everything is OK. There may be an issue with your credit card or some other problem that is stumping the order from being processed.

It's better to address these potential issues early so you can still get your iPhone 11 or iPhone 11 Pro on the date of your pickup.

Give it some time, though. Your preorder may take a day or two to process. If you preordered on a Friday, give it until Monday before you call. Don't wait for another email. Check your order status online or in the Apple Store app.

If it shows Order In Progress, you're good to go! Don't be worried if you're order is still in-progress leading up to your scheduled window for in-store pickup. Most of my in-store pickup orders show that my order is "in progress" right up until moment I get the email or text notification that it's ready to be picked up.

Make sure you get your email or text message notification first

Even though you might have a pick-up window scheduled for launch day at 9:00 am, you still won't be able to actually pick up your iPhone 11 or iPhone 11 Pro until you receive that confirmation notification. So don't try.

You'll receive either an email or text message (or, sometimes both) letting you know that your order is ready to be picked up. Even if it's before or after your originally scheduled pickup window, this is the time you should go.

You should also make sure your notifications are set to the correct email address and phone number. Go to your account settings and click or tap on your Primary or Default Shipping information and check your email address and phone number to make sure notifications will be sent to the right place.

Bring the credit card you purchased and your order confirmation number (and your photo ID)

Though Apple's website states that you only need to bring one or the other, either your credit card or your order confirmation number, it's smart to have both. If something wonky has happened or the Apple staff member is having trouble looking up your order, you can provide one or the other method for finding your information. It's just good practice to be overly prepared for this scenario so you don't have to walk out of the store empty-handed due to something so trivial as a credit card or confirmation number.

Of course, no matter what, you'll need your photo ID with you.

Get there a few minutes early and check in with an Apple staff member right away

Though Apple's policy is to hold onto your iPhone for up to 20 days under normal order pickup circumstances, that doesn't mean you won't be kicked to the back of the line if you show up late to your appointment.

When you have a reservation for a Genius Bar appointment and show up more than 15 minutes past your appointment start time, if the place is bumpin', you might be asked to wait until the next available Genius is ready, even if that means an hour's wait.

I'm not sure whether your local Apple retail store will have a similar policy for your pick-up window, but are you willing to risk it? I'm not. Get there early. Check in right away.

There is always an Apple staff member at the front of an Apple store waiting to greet customers. Go to that person first. They will point you in the right direction as to whom you want to see to actually check in.

Have patience

Apple employees are people, too. If you're angry because you've had to wait 20 minutes before anyone came to help you, imagine just how difficult their day has been? You're not intentionally being ignored. If your local Apple retail store is a cluster-[expletive deleted], it's not on purpose. If you're getting antsy to pick up your iPhone 11 or iPhone 11 Pro, politely ask an Apple Staff member to help you. Everyone will be happier with their experience in the end if we are all nice to each other on such a chaotic day.

Walk out happy!

If all goes well and there aren't any unforeseen issues that arise and keep you from getting your iPhone 11 or iPhone 11 Pro on the day of your iPhone pickup window, you can walk out of your local Apple retail store with iPhone in hand. Just don't be that guy that drops it right after opening it on the way out of the store.

Any questions?

Do you have any questions about what to expect at your iPhone XR pickup check-in? Put them in the comments and I'll help you out.

Updated September 2019: Updated for iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Pro.

What you need to know

• People seem to be curious about how much their iPhone XS battery has degraded over the past year.
• YouTuber Dmitry Novoselov began the discussion by revealing his iPhone XS battery health was at 91%.
• Other revealed their battery health were at varying levels like 85% or 99%.

It has been nearly one year since the iPhone XR, XS and XS Max were released. With the one year anniversary being revisited as many users are sending their devices back as part of an upgrade program, many are checking the health of their battery out of curiosity. Turns out the battery degradation is wildly different depending on the user.

YouTuber Dmitry Novoselov began the discussion when he posted a tweet asking how people's battery health was for their iPhones. He noted that his iPhone XS battery health was at 91% after one year of use. He wondered if the battery degradation of 9% was normal.

This got people curious and they began to respond. Some reported battery health of 89% and 94% among other scores for different iPhones. YouTuber Justin Tse responded with one of the most striking declines with his battery health at 85%.

What's more surprising was when I checked the health of my iPhone XS. It is currently at 99% and still going strong. I received it on day one and have used it ever since. For my charging habits, I leave it on a wireless charger every night from 11 p.m to 6 a.m. (for the most part) like clockwork. I also checked with my co-worker to see how his iPhone X battery has aged over the past two years and he confirmed it is at 86%.

In case you are unaware, battery chemistry is not an exact science. Degradation will definitely occur, it just depends on the device and how a person uses it. But it can vary depending on certain differences. Novoselov tagged Apple Support and they responded with this statement:

Additionally, it posted the link for Apple's support page for iPhone Battery and Performance. It states: "As lithium-ion batteries chemically age, the amount of charge they can hold diminishes, resulting in shorter amounts of time before a device needs to be recharged."

iPhone batteries will degrade at different increments for everyone. I have no idea how mine has only degraded 1%, but I'll take it. However, it is not uncommon to see the battery of a brand new iPhone degrade by upwards of 10% over the course of a year. That's something worth noting when checking how your iPhone battery is doing after years of use.

What's the health of your iPhone battery? Let us know in the comments below.

Upgrading from last year's iPhone to this year's can be a difficult decision to make. Does the new iPhone 11 Pro really have more and better features than the one you're holding in your hand right now? Would it be smarter to wait until 2020? There's a lot to unpack, so let's get this party started.

Old vs new: Is an upgrade really necessary this year?

On the one hand, the iPhone 11 Pro has a WAY better camera system than the iPhone XS and the battery improvement is the biggest Apple has ever accomplished year-over-year at four additional hours for the iPhone 11 Pro and five more hours for the iPhone 11 Pro Max. On the other hand, if you're not trying to be a photography hobbyist and your iPhone XS or XS Max batter lasts long enough for you, are these the only features worth the upgrade? Let's break down the major tech specs.

And for the Max models...

New colors, new finish, new you

Lots of people have asked me what I think of the matte finish on the new iPhone 11 Pro and I have to say, it's absolutely lovely, especially on the silver model. That soft white backside is like looking at an elegant pair of satin gloves.

All of the colors we're familiar with — gold, space gray, and silver, have a new, and in my opinion, better look. The colors are richer and more vibrant. They stand out more. Less reflective so you can look deeper into the color. Space gray has this sort of compelling effect on your eyes. You want to look at it more. Find the shadows hidden in the dark.

Of course, there's that brand new color added to the iPhone Pro line: Midnight Green. It's difficult to describe what it looks like in real life, but it's sort of a smokey green. It's very dark, so dark it almost looks gray, but when it hits the light right, you can see that dark green peeking through.

If showing off to your friends that you've got the newest iPhone, the iPhone 11 Pro in Midnight Green will definitely catch their eye.

The elephant-sized camera in the room

There is no way to diminish the absolute 'extra' that is the new triple-lens camera on the iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max. It's got an ultra wide lens, a standard lens, and a telephoto lens. That means you can 2x zoom in, like you can on the iPhone XS, or 2x zoom out to capture a wider landscape in the shot without having to move further away. It's not pano. It's not fisheye. It simply optically broadens how much you can fit into the shot by four times.

The video camera has also been improved thanks to extended dynamic range and cinematic video stabilization support for 4K at 60fps. And you can take advantage of the triple lens system to zoom in or out while shooting video. When zoomed in, the microphone will directionally isolate and record audio from the subject you're pointing at.

Night mode is definitely a game changer for the iPhone. It's similar to "Night Sight" in Google's Pixel phone and Samsung's "Night mode." Phones don't yet have option to lower the shutter speed of your camera in order to capture more light. Instead, they use computational software to reproduce the same effect.

With Night mode on the iPhone 11 Pro, you can take pictures in near-black darkness, but get a final photo that has significant light drawn in, and it doesn't look grainy or noisy. This happens automatically (though you can manually turn it off by tapping the Night mode icon in the camera app), so if you quickly want to capture a scene in a dimly lit area, you don't have to fiddle with any settings to get the shot.

I know it's something we've all been dying to have on our phones and its finally here — slo-mo selfie video. OK, so this is a silly little thing, but you and I both know we've tried to take slo-mo video of ourselves using the back camera on the iPhone XS (or whichever iPhone you have). No more flipping the camera around anymore.

The front-facing TrueDepth camera is also now 12MP with 4K video recording capabilities. Excuse me while I go throw my GoPro in the garbage!

If a better camera than the iPhone XS is high on your priority list, the upgrade to the triple lens system on the iPhone 11 Pro is absolutely a reason to upgrade.

If, however, your iPhone XS takes perfectly good pictures and you're not trying to go pro, or at least become a hobbyist photographer, you may not consider this to be a valuable justification to upgrade. Especially if the, very noticable, square camera bump with three "eyes" peering at you is too much of a design change for you to handle right now.

Battery for daaaaaays

Apple claims (no one outside of the company has had a chance to test these claims) that the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max have a massive improvement in battery life over the iPhone XS. We're talking about four hours more for the iPhone 11 Pro and five hours more for the iPhon 11 Pro Max.

As you can see from the spec table above, however, Apple hasn't given any specifics on when the batteries perform these special feats. Apple hasn't yet listed talk time or internet browsing time yet.

In general, however, if my iPhone can power through an additional four or five hours of life without needing a recharge, I can actually go to Disneyland for a day without needing to bring an external charging brick, and that includes a lot of picture taking.

The huge boost in battery performance is one feature that makes me want to say, "Yes! Upgrade! It's worth it!" But I know that, not everyone runs out of juice that often. If you spend much of your day in an office environment where you can charge your iPhone regularly, your daily power needs are less, and four extra hours may not mean anything to you except for the occasions when you're away from anything that can charge your iPhone, like a nature hike (or a day at Disneyland).

Goodbye 3D Touch, hello Haptic Touch

I have one more small thing to mention, and that's the switch from 3D Touch to Haptic Touch. There are a few features you lose in 3D Touch if you upgrade, but for the most part, Haptic Touch, which involves long-pressing instead of pressing harder, performs the same function. You even get that slight bump feeling when you use it, so it feels like you're doing the same thing anyway.

Bottomline TL;DR

If you're still on the fence about whether you should upgrade, consider these few things:

• If you must have the latest colors, styles, and fashion and you want all your friends to know you're ahead of the curve, upgrade to the iPhone 11 Pro and pick the Midnight Green color, since it's the first time this color has appeared on any Apple Device. #iPhoneista
• If you get a little FOMO (fear of missing out) when you think about living the next year with a dual-lens camera instead of a triple-lens camera, and you already have ideas for how you'd use that ultra-wide feature, the iPhone 11 Pro is a justifiable upgrade. There's no denying that it's a huge improvement, front-facing, back-facing, and video-wise, over the iPhone XS. If you just like to take pictures of your food, your new shoes, and maybe girls/boys night out, your iPhone XS camera is good enough ... no, great enough, to last you another year.
• If the iPhone XS' battery performance is the baine of your existence, if it runs out of juice way before you do, the impressive performance improvement of either four or five additional hours of battery makes the iPhone 11 Pro an insta-buy.

What you need to know

• iPhone XS models now start at $899.
• iPhone XS Max models start at $999.
• The prices are only available in stores.

Apple has slashed the price of the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max following the announcement of the iPhone 11 lineup. Bargain hunters can now save $100 on every iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max model.

That means that the iPhone XS can be picked up in 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage configurations for $899, $1,049, and $1,249, respectively. Likewise, the iPhone XS Max can be had in the same storage configurations for $999, $1,149, and $1,349.

The only catch here, as noted by Macrumors, is that you'll have to head into an Apple Store to make your purchase. Apple removed the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max models from its online store to make way for the new iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max.

That doesn't mean that there isn't the potential for a bargain iPhone online, though. Carriers sometimes offer deals to move inventory before a new flagship lands on shelves. If you want to save some money but don't want to venture to the local Apple Store – or there isn't one near your – that's one place to start your search.

If the best of the best is more your style, Apple's newest iPhones will be available for pre-order on September 13th with stock arriving in stores on September 20th. That's also the same date the Apple Watch Series 5 goes on sale, although pre-orders are already available for Apple's latest wearable lifesaver.

Let's get into what eSIM is and what it does.

So, we all know for your phone to connect to a carrier's network, it needs a SIM card (in most cases a Nano SIM). That tiny card that pushes into the side or bottom of your phone enables you to make calls, send text, and access mobile data. That area where the SIM card is held is a small tray – to open it, it usually needs a special SIM tray removal tool.

eSIM eliminates all the hassle by carrying the same core functionality without the need for a physical SIM card. The true benefit of having this tech-enabled is that you can easily hop back and forth between carriers using one eSIM. There's no need for different traditional SIM cards every time you switch. This will not only save you time but potentially money as well. It's a huge convenience to have.

Unfortunately, Visible doesn't support eSIM whatsoever.

Whether you buy a phone directly from Visible or bring your own device to the network, you'll be stuck using a traditional SIM card to connect to Visible's service.

We aren't sure as to if or when this limitation will change in the future. Visible up until this point has been relatively silent about supporting eSIM. However, considering they use Verizon's network for their service (because Verizon supports eSIM), it's not inconceivable to believe they'll back the new technology soon.